Literal Meaning
From b-s-t (ب-س-ط): to expand, spread, extend. Al-Basit is the One who expands provision, hearts, and horizons.
Quranic Usage
The root appears alongside constriction: “Allah withholds and extends (yaqbidu wa yabsut).” (Al-Baqarah 2:245; also 13:26)
Common translations:
“the Expander,” “the One who Extends.”
Linguistic Form and Pattern
Active participle (basit) indicates One who extends and spreads.
Classical Scholarly Views
Al-Basit expands rizq, knowledge, patience, and joy in due measure and wisdom.
Not Limited to Wealth
Expansion can be of time, opportunity, chest (sharh al-sadr), and community.
Distinction from Similar Names
Pairs with Al-Qabid (the Withholder). Together they describe divine balancing.
In Human Terms
Embrace seasons of “bast” (expansion) with gratitude and service.
Spiritual Perspective
Invoke “Ya Basit” for ease after tightness and for expansive hearts.
Practical Reflection
Use expanded means to uplift others; widen your circle of care.
Invocation and Dua
The b-s-t root doesn’t appear in a Qur’anic du‘a form. However the following Ayat uses the root b-s-t:
“Had Allah extended [excessively] provisions for His servants, they would have certainly transgressed throughout the land. But He sends down whatever He wills in perfect measure. He is truly All-Aware, All-Seeing of His servants.” Surah Ash-Shura, 42:27
Everyday Arabic Usage
bast (expansion), basata (simplicity).
Examples:
– bast al-rizq – expansion of provision.
– basit al-yad – open-handed.
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