Al-Razzâq: The Provider

"...And He is the Provider (Al-Razzâq)..." (51:58).

The Provider is that quality of Allah which creates the means of sustenance as well as the need for it and enjoyment of it. This includes the ability to gain nourishment from food or knowledge for there are two kinds of sustenance: the first is evident like food and the need for it is caused to exist in physical bodies to which it provides strength for the human body for a limited period of time. The other is hidden and consists of knowledge. The need for this is caused to exist in the human heart and inner self. It is the more noble of the two kinds of sustenance. It is a fruit which, once eaten, can bring eternal life. The Provider is the quality which assumes responsibility for the creation of both types of sustenance, graciously making them available to both bodies and the human heart. "Our Lord, You have not created this universe in vain" (3:191). The Provider grants ample sustenance to some and a measured amount to others.