Understanding ‘Rabb’ () رب

THE CONCEPT OF RELIGION simply from the word “majesty” (kibriya), one cannot infer the concept of political authority without a clear indication. Kibriya signifies greatness and grandeur, and words like these in the Quran are used to describe Allah’s supernatural authority and supremacy over the heavens and the earth, which is the intended meaning here as well. Hafiz Ibn Kathir writes: “So, to Allah belongs all praise—Lord of the heavens and the earth,” meaning He is the owner of both and everything within them... “and to Him belongs all majesty in the heavens and the earth.” Mujahid explains this as meaning that only His is the sovereignty—that He is the Great and the Magnificent, before whom everything is humble and dependent. (Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Vol. 7, p. 273) Ali Shawkani writes: “And to Him belongs all majesty in the heavens and the earth,” signifying that grandeur, greatness, and authority are His alone. The heavens and the earth are specifically mentioned as His attributes are evident within them. “And He is the Almighty, the Wise,” indicating that His authority is supreme, and none can prevail against Him. He is wise in all His actions, words