Al Mu'izzu - Al Muzillu

Mu'izzu is derived from Izz or Izzah which means glory, dignity, prestige etc. It also indicates rarity, i.e. "to be rare". A rare thing is normally precious or good things are quite rare in themselves. That is why Azeez is translated as 'rare, dear and powerful' etc. But in general, it means glory, dignity, prestige etc.

Al Mu'izzu means the One who grants glory, dignity and prestige. Al Muzillu is the contrary of it, that is, the one who has the capacity to dishonour someone. And it is Allah Ta'ala. This lies solely in the hands of Allah Ta'ala. In Qur'aan-e-Karim, Allah Ta'ala commanded Nabi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) to say:

"... تعز من تشاء وتذل من تشاء ..."

"...It is You who gives honour to whoever You want and it is You who humiliates whoever You want..." (3:26)

In another place, Allah Ta'ala says:

"... فان العزة لله جميعا ..."

"...All honour belongs to Allah ..." (4: 139)

Nowadays, people neglect many principles of Deen under the impression that there is honour and prestige in another system. And yet this is not found anywhere. It is found solely in the hands of Allah Ta'ala.

One’s family, wealth or job cannot grant one honour. True honour is an honour that remains forever. Honour in the eyes of people is not more than a mirage which is good merely to deceive the eyes. True honour is granted by Allah Ta'ala. And he gives it to the one who obeys his command even though he may seem to be the most poor. But Allah Ta'ala inspires love for him in the heart of Dunya thus people love him wholeheartedly. This emanates from Allah Ta'ala. This is what is called being a king without a throne and crown. However, when Allah Ta'ala decides, all the means that one used to believe is the source of honour, dignity or prestige, becomes useless.

"...And whoever is dishonoured by Allah Ta'ala, there is no one to honour him. Certainly, Allah does whatever He wills." (22:18)

Allah Ta'ala is the Creator of everything that exists. It is He who gives whatever is required. Allah Ta'ala has established a means to obtain something. Fire grants heat. Water quenches thirst. Food allays hunger. Likewise, true dignity, honour and prestige are found in practicing Deen.

Hazrat 'Umar (Radiyallahu Anhu) said:

"We were the lowest of people. Allah Ta'ala has granted us dignity through Islam. Now however much we seek honour in another way, Allah Ta'ala will denigrate us."

[English version of "Al Mou’izzou – Al Mouzillou" – Al Jamiat – Vol.6 No.9]