❖ Ruling on Reciting Attribute-Based Names of Allah ﷻ
Question:
Can Allah’s attribute-based names such as Yā Salām, Yā Mu’min, etc., be recited as a form of remembrance or spiritual healing? Some spiritual healers recommend reciting these names to seek safety, peace, or healing.
Answer by Shaykh ʿAbd al-Wakīl Nāṣir ḥafiẓahullāh
Below are 6 Shar‘i principles regarding this issue:
➊ Reciting the Names like "Yā Salām", "Yā Mu’min" is Permissible
✔ These are authentic and established names of Allah ﷻ.
✔ Reciting them is permissible and a source of reward.
✔ This act falls under the category of dhikr (remembrance) and approved supplication.
➋ These Names Serve as a Prelude to Du‘ā’
✔ Mentioning Allah’s names is part of starting a supplication properly.
✔ For example:
- Begin with praise and glorification of Allah.
- Recite Durūd (salutations) upon the Prophet ﷺ.
- Then present your need or request before Allah.
➌ Misconception Alert: Names Alone Don’t Guarantee Solution
Merely repeating “Yā Salām” or “Yā Mu’min” and expecting problems to vanish without proper du‘ā’ is a misunderstanding.✔ The correct way is:
① Invoke Allah using His names
② Then make du‘ā’ with clarity and humility
➍ Learning and Remembering Allah’s Names is Beneficial
✔ It is a noble and beneficial practice to recite and reflect upon the names of Allah.
✔ But depending solely on them as an automatic solution without making proper du‘ā’ is incorrect.
➎ Linking Dhikr to Results Without Du‘ā’ is an Error
✔ Using these names like a formula or magic spell without turning to Allah with full du‘ā’ and submission is not the Sunnah method.
➏ Conclusion
❀ Reciting Allah’s attribute-based names is correct, rewarding, and beneficial.
❀ However, du‘ā’ must follow the dhikr.
❀ Do not treat these names as a stand-alone solution without full supplication and reliance upon Allah.
وَاللهُ أَعْلَمُ بِالصَّوَابِ
And Allah knows best what is correct
