The 99 Names of Allah: Al-Mutakabbir (The Supreme and Majestic)
Discover the meaning of Al-Mutakabbir, the tenth of the 99 Names of Allah. Learn why true pride and greatness belong only to the Creator of the universe.
The Holy Quran Team
Author
The 99 Names of Allah: Al-Mutakabbir (The Supreme and Majestic)
In human society, when a person acts like they are better, smarter, or more important than everyone else, we call them arrogant (or Mutakabbir). In human beings, arrogance is a terrible sin.
But when we talk about Allah, this exact same word takes on a completely different, beautiful, and perfect meaning.
Today we explore the tenth Beautiful Name of Allah: Al-Mutakabbir.
What Does Al-Mutakabbir Mean?
Al-Mutakabbir translates to "The Supreme," "The Majestic," or "The One Who is Truly Great."
Why is pride a sin for humans, but a perfect name for Allah? The answer is simple: humans do not actually own anything. If a human is proud of their money, their good looks, or their intelligence, they are acting fake, because Allah is the one who gave them those things. A human being is created from dust and will return to dust.
But Allah is the Creator of the entire universe. He has always existed, He owns every star in the sky, and His power has no limits. Therefore, when Allah is proud, it is not fake arrogance; it is the absolute truth of His supreme majesty. He is the only One who actually deserves to be called "Great."
Allah completes a beautiful list of His names in Surah Al-Hashr with this powerful title:
"He is Allah, other than whom there is no deity... the Guardian, the Almighty, the Compeller, the Supreme (Al-Mutakabbir). Exalted is Allah above whatever they associate with Him." (Quran 59:23)
The Cure for Human Arrogance
Understanding that Allah is Al-Mutakabbir is the ultimate cure for human ego. In a famous saying (Hadith Qudsi), Allah tells the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
"Pride is My cloak and greatness is My garment, so whoever competes with Me regarding these two will be thrown into the Hellfire." (Sunan Abu Dawud)
When a human acts arrogant, looks down on poor people, or refuses to admit when they are wrong, they are trying to wear the "cloak" that belongs only to Allah. This is a very dangerous spiritual sickness.
How Can We Use This Name in Our Lives?
Connecting with the name Al-Mutakabbir teaches us how to find our true place in the world. Here is how you can use this name every day:
1. Practice True Humility
Whenever you feel yourself getting a little too proud of your good grades, your new car, or your job promotion, immediately remember Al-Mutakabbir. Remind yourself that you are a servant, and everything you have is a gift from the Supreme King. Treat everyone you meet—even the poorest worker on the street—with deep respect, knowing that only Allah is above us.
2. Find Strength in His Supremacy
Being humble does not mean being weak! When you know that your Lord is Al-Mutakabbir, you realize that no human enemy, no unfair boss, and no worldly problem is truly "great." When you stand in prayer and say Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest), you are reminding yourself that the Supreme Creator is on your side, and nobody can stand against Him.
