Among the many spiritual treasures of Islam, Ism-e-Azam (اسمِ اعظم), or The Greatest Name of Allah, holds a unique and honored place. While many Muslims are familiar with the 99 Beautiful Names of Allah (Asma’ul Husna), the concept of Ism-e-Azam refers to one supreme name that carries exceptional spiritual weight — a name through which supplications (duas) are especially powerful and readily accepted by Allah.

This article offers a deeper look into how Ism-e-Azam appears in the Quran and Hadith, drawing from Islamic texts and scholarly interpretations to better understand its significance.

What Is Ism-e-Azam?

Before we explore the texts, let’s clarify the idea. Ism-e-Azam is believed to be that special Name of Allah which, when invoked sincerely, ensures that one’s dua is answered. The exact identity of this name is not explicitly stated in the Quran, but various hadith provide clues. Many Muslims ask: What are Isme Azam and Isme Azam Dua and what are they? Essentially, Isme Azam refers to the greatest name itself, while Isme Azam Dua refers to the supplications that incorporate or invoke this powerful name, often used when seeking Allah’s help or mercy.

Ism-e-Azam in the Quran

While the Quran contains all the Beautiful Names of Allah, it does not explicitly name Ism-e-Azam. However, scholars have pointed to several verses they believe hint toward it.

Some notable examples include:

• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255) — Ayat al-Kursi: This verse describes Allah’s absolute power and sovereignty and is considered one of the most powerful in the Quran.
• Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1-4): This short chapter emphasizes Allah’s oneness and uniqueness, which some scholars believe reflects His supreme nature.
• Surah Taha (20:111): “And (all) faces will be humbled before the Ever-Living, the Sustainer.”

While none of these verses declare “This is the Ism-e-Azam,” many scholars and mystics suggest that names like Al-Hayy (The Ever-Living) and Al-Qayyum (The Sustainer) are strong candidates.

Ism-e-Azam in the Hadith

The clearest references to Ism-e-Azam come from the hadith literature. Several authentic narrations mention it:

Sunan Abu Dawood:
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Verily, Allah has an Ism-e-Azam (Greatest Name) which, if He is called by it, He responds, and if He is asked by it, He gives.”

Tirmidhi Hadith:
A narration describes that the Ism-e-Azam can be found in three Surahs:

• Al-Baqarah (2:163),
• Aal Imran (3:2), and
• Taha (20:111).

Other Reports:
Some hadith mention that saying “Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum” (O Ever-Living, O Sustainer) in dua carries great power, suggesting that these names may represent the Ism-e-Azam.

Scholarly Opinions

There is no single, agreed-upon identification of the Ism-e-Azam among scholars. Opinions vary:

• Some say “Allah” itself is the Greatest Name because it encompasses all attributes.
• Others highlight names tied to Allah’s mercy and power, such as Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful) or Al-Hayy Al-Qayyum.
• Some suggest it is a hidden name, known only to the Prophets or those granted special spiritual knowledge.

Despite this variation, the unifying belief is that calling on Allah with sincerity, humility, and faith is more important than knowing a specific formula.

Practical Lessons

Whether or not one knows the exact Ism-e-Azam, there are key spiritual takeaways:

• Consistency in Dua: Regularly call on Allah using His beautiful names.
• Mindfulness and Sincerity: Focus your heart when making dua, not just your words.
• Trust in Allah: Understand that acceptance comes in the way Allah wills, not always as we expect.

Conclusion

The concept of Ism-e-Azam in the Quran and Hadith serves as a reminder of the immense mercy and accessibility of Allah. It encourages believers to deepen their connection through prayer, reflection, and trust in divine power. While the exact Greatest Name remains a matter of spiritual exploration, the heart of the matter is clear: Allah listens, responds, and blesses those who call upon Him with sincerity.