Explanation

The name Al-Ḥayy (الحي) is one of the beautiful names of ALLAH (Asma ul-Husna), and it means “The Ever-Living” or “The Living One.” This name emphasizes ALLAH’s eternal, self-sustaining, and perfect life, which is not dependent on anything or anyone. It signifies that ALLAH is the source of all life and that His existence is absolute, without beginning or end. Below is a detailed explanation of this name, along with Quranic references where it is mentioned or alluded to.

Meaning and Significance

• Ever-Living:
  The name Al-Hayy means “The Ever-Living.” It signifies that ALLAH’s existence is not like that of His creation—subject to decay, change, or death—but is eternal and unceasing. His life is complete, dynamic, and independent of any limitations.

• Source of Life:
  As Al-Hayy, ALLAH is the source and sustainer of all life. Every living being and every aspect of existence is maintained by His continuous and perfect life. Unlike mortal beings whose lives are finite, ALLAH’s life is perpetual, highlighting His absolute independence and self-sufficiency.

Linguistic Root

• Arabic Derivation:
  The term ٱلْحَيّ comes from the Arabic root “ح-ي-ي” (ḥ-y-y), which is associated with life and living. This root is used in the Arabic language to describe life, vitality, and the state of being alive. In the context of ALLAH, it indicates a level of life that is beyond human comprehension—complete, flawless, and eternal.

Attributes Highlighted by Al-Hayy

• Eternal Existence:
  ALLAHs life is not subject to time. He neither begins nor ends; His existence is a constant, unwavering reality that underpins the entire universe.

• Sustainer of Creation:
  Every creature, every moment, and every event in the cosmos is sustained by ALLAH’s perpetual life. This attribute assures believers that, no matter how transient the world may seem, it is upheld by an everlasting power.

• Independence:
  While all of creation depends on ALLAH for life and sustenance, He is completely independent. His existence is not contingent upon anything external, and He is free from any need or limitation.

Practical Implications for Believers

• Reassurance and Trust:
  Reflecting on ALLAH’s attribute as Al-Hayy gives believers immense comfort and security. Knowing that the Sustainer of all existence is eternally vigilant and active provides a foundation of trust, especially in times of uncertainty or hardship.

• Motivation for Reflection:
  When we contemplate the perfection of ALLAH’s life, we are encouraged to evaluate our own transient existence. This inspires gratitude for the life we have and motivates us to live in a way that aligns with divine purpose, always mindful that our sustenance and every moment are granted by the Ever-Living.

• Reminder of Dependence:
  Recognizing that every facet of life is maintained by ALLAH emphasizes our complete dependence on Him. This awareness nurtures humility and encourages believers to turn to ALLAH for guidance, support, and forgiveness.

Final Reflections

The name Al-Hayy encapsulates the essence of ALLAH’s eternal and perfect life—a life that is the source of all creation and the sustainer of every moment in the universe. As reflected in the profound verses of the Qur’an, especially in Ayat al-Kursi (2:255) and Surah Aal-Imran (3:2), this attribute reassures believers of ALLAH’s unwavering presence and continuous care over all that exists. By meditating on Al-Hayy, one is reminded of the limitless power and mercy of ALLAH, inspiring a deeper sense of reliance, gratitude, and spiritual reflection.

Quran References

The name Al-Ḥayy is mentioned in the Quran in several verses, often paired with another of ALLAH’s names, Al-Qayyūm (The Self-Sustaining). Below are the key verses where this name appears:

1. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255) – Ayat al-Kursi:

   • Arabic: اللَّهُ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ

   • Translation: “ALLAH! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Self-Sustaining.”

   • Explanation: This is one of the most famous verses in the Quran, known as Ayat al-Kursi. It highlights Allah’s eternal life and His role as the sustainer of all creation. The pairing of Al-Ḥayy and Al-Qayyūm emphasizes that ALLAH is the source of all life and the One who maintains the existence of everything.

2. Surah Ali Imran (3:2):

   • Arabic: اللَّهُ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ

   • Translation: “ALLAH! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Self-Sustaining.”

   • Explanation: This verse reiterates the same message as Ayat al-Kursi, emphasizing ALLAH’s uniqueness, eternal life, and His role as the sustainer of all existence.

3. Surah Ta-Ha (20:111):

   • Arabic: وَعَنَتِ ٱلْوُجُوهُ لِلْحَىِّ ٱلْقَيُّومِۖ وَقَدْ خَابَ مَنْ حَمَلَ ظُلْمًا

   • Translation: And [all] faces will be humbled before the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence. And he will have failed who carries injustice.

   • Explanation: This verse describes the Day of Judgment, when all creation will bow in humility before ALLAH, the Ever-Living, who never dies and is the source of all life.

4. Surah Ghafir (40:65):

   • Arabic: هُوَ ٱلْحَىُّ لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ فَٱدْعُوهُ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ ٱلدِّينَۗ ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ ٱلْعَٰلَمِينَ

   • Translation: “He is the Ever-Living; there is no deity except Him, so call upon Him, [being] sincere to Him in religion. [All] praise is [due] to ALLAH, Lord of the worlds..”

   • Explanation: This verse emphasizes that ALLAH alone is worthy of worship because He is the Ever-Living, the One who never dies and is the source of all life.

5. Surah Al-Furqan (25:58):

   • Arabic: وَتَوَكَّلْ عَلَى ٱلْحَىِّ ٱلَّذِى لَا يَمُوتُ وَسَبِّحْ بِحَمْدِهِۦۚ وَكَفَىٰ بِهِۦ بِذُنُوبِ عِبَادِهِۦ خَبِيرًا

   • Translation: And rely upon the Ever-Living who does not die, and exalt [ ALLAH ] with His praise. And sufficient is He to be, with the sins of His servants, Acquainted –

   • Explanation: This verse encourages believers to place their trust in ALLAH, the Ever-Living, who is eternal and will never perish.