The name al-`Azīz appears seventy-two times in the Qur’ān, usually in conjunction with other names of Allah.

For example: “the Mighty, the Wize” [Sūrah al-Baqarah: 129] “the Mighty, the All-Knowing” [Sūrah al-An`ām: 96] “the Mighty, the Lord of Retribution” [Sūrah Āl `Imrān: 96] “the Mighty, the Forgiving” [Sūrah Fātir: 28] “the Mighty, the Oft-Forgiving” [Sūrah Sād: 66] “the Mighty, the Praiseworthy” [Sūrah Ibrāhīm: 1]

The same pattern of linking the name al-`Azīz with other names can be found in numerous hādith.

Allah is the possessor of strength who faces no incapacity. Nothing can overpower Him or harm Him. The Prophet (peace be upon him) relates that Allah says: “None of you has the power to bring me any harm or benefit.” [Sahīh Muslim (2577)]

The name al-`Azīz (the Mighty) is most often coupled with the name al-Hakīm (the Wize). This teaches us that Allah’s might is not like the might of mortal beings who abuse their power, misallocate the resources they control, and oppress those who are subject to them.

We also find the name al-`Azīz linked with al-Rahīm (the Merciful), which teaches us that in spite of the fact that Allah has such power over us, he withholds His wrath, grants us respite so we can make amends, and does not hasten to punish.

The name al-`Azīz often comes lined with al-`Alīm (the All-Knowing) to convey the idea of the precision and detail in His works and His proficiency.

It also comes linked with the name al-Hamīd (the Praiseworthy), conveying to us that Allah is worthy of praise in the laws he prescribes for us and the decrees he ordains for us.

Allah’s might transcends and surpasses all might and power. None can aspire to it. Allah says: “All might belongs to Allah.” [Sūrah Yūnus: 65]

Rather, all might and power that created beings possess is bestowed on them by Him. He gives might in this world to whom he pleases.

“They say: ’If we return to the city, the mighty will surely drive out the weaker therefrom.’ Nay, to Allah belongs all might, and to His Messenger and to the believers.” [Sūrah al-Munāfiqīn: 8]

Whoever aspires to be mighty – whether it be through wealth, lineage, prestige, health, worldly success, or through the attainment of the Hereafter – they should seek it from the true Possessor of Might, the invincible one who is the source of strength and support for all who rely on Him. Whoever seeks out Allah to be their refuge and appeals to Him to fulfill their needs and give them strength, they will find Him to be the Mighty one who grants their requests, safeguard their dignity, and preserve their status. There is no indignity in begging from Allah, whereas begging from others is a shameful act, whether the beggar receives anything or not.

Whoever takes Allah as their source of strength will enjoy strength and might for themselves, though their bodies may be weak, their connections without influence, and their possessions few.

The best way to attain might that is free from all ignominy is to be humble and forgiving to other people, willing to pardon their abuses and infringements upon your rights. Abū Hurayrah relates that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said: “Giving in charity never reduced a person’s wealth. Allah makes mighty those who pardon others. Allah raises in status those who show humility.

Finally, by being attentive to the Qur’an by reading it, understanding it, pondering its message, and living according to its dictates, a person can aspire to might and honor. Indeed, the Qur’an is described as al-`Azīz: “Indeed, it is a mighty Book.” [Sūrah Fussilat: 41]