Bismillah

In the beginning of surah Yaseen, Allah ta’ala says:

تَنْزِيلَ الْعَزِيزِ الرَّحِيمِ

(This Qur’an) is a revelation from the All-Mighty, the Especially Merciful. (36:5)

Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala begins this surah with an oath on the Qur’an that is Hakeem, and then declaring the Prophethood and guidance of the Prophet Muhammad sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam.

Allah ta’ala describes this Book as Tanzeel, a revelation. Tanzeel is not just one that is sent down, but tanzeel is gradual revelation that is sent down according to its need.

This Tanzeel is from Al-’Azeez, The Always All Mighty, and Ar-Raheem, The Especially Merciful. Al ‘Azeez the One who is Great, Mighty and Powerful. Ar Raheem the One who is Very Merciful.  Isn’t it amazing that these two Names of Allah have been mentioned here? Is there any human being who can encompass both of these qualities simultaneously? No, right? Either they are ‘azeez (powerful and mighty) or they are raheem (merciful), and for Allah is the Highest Example. We see how important these two Characteristics of Allah are, how much Power and Mercy He has, azza wa jal.

He is ‘Azeez, no one has the power to change His Decree, but at the same time, He is Raheem, He did not just create, leaving His creatures to fend for themselves, but He ta’ala nurtured us, sent us blessing after blessing, sent us guidance and taught us how to be successful in the hereafter.

Why are these two seemingly opposite Names mentioned together when introducing the Qur’an and the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam? The Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam was a basheer (giver of glad tidings) as well as a natheer (one who warns). This Qur’an mentions hellfire and right afterwards mentions Jannah. The combination of these two Names of Allah shows balance; if you go towards Allah’s obedience, He is Raheem, but if you choose to disobey, you cannot run away or hide from Him, He is ‘Azeez.

We ask Allah ta’ala to have mercy upon us, guide us upon the straight path and make us companions of the Qur’an, Ameen.