Literal Meaning
From h-l-m (ح-ل-م): forbearance, calm restraint, deliberation. Al-Halim is the One who does not rush to punish despite having full power.
Quranic Usage
Frequent, e.g., “Indeed, Allah is Most Forbearing, All-Knowing.” (Al-Baqarah 2:235; also 2:263; 22:59, etc.)
Translations of Al-Halim:
Yusuf Ali: “Most Forbearing”
Pickthall: “Clement”
Sahih International: “Most Forbearing”
Muhammad Asad: “Most Forbearing”
Mustafa Khattab: “Most Forbearing”
Linguistic Form and Pattern
fa‘il (حليم) indicates a stable, abiding attribute.
Classical Scholarly Views
Al-Halim gives respite, conceals faults, and invites repentance.
Not License to Wrongdoing
Forbearance is mercy with wisdom—not approval of injustice.
Distinction from Similar Names
Related to Al-Ghafur (All-Forgiving) and As-Sabur (Patient). Al-Halim stresses restrained power.
In Human Terms
Practice hilm: measured responses, slow anger, quick pardon.
Spiritual Perspective
Invoke “Ya Halim” to temper impulses and respond with dignity.
Practical Reflection
Count to ten, consult, then act—discipline is a form of mercy.
Invocation and Dua
“Allahumma innaka halimun karim…”—supplications pair His forbearance with generosity.
“O Allah, indeed You are Forbearing and Most Generous.”
(halīmun = forbearing/clement; karīm = generous/noble)
Everyday Arabic Usage
hilm (forbearance), halim (gentle/forbearing), ahlam (dreams; also related root nuance).
Examples:
– rajul halim – a forbearing man.
– tahallam – to act with forbearance.
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