Al-Hayīy

The Modest

He is the One with modesty that befits His majesty and tremendous power. Indeed, the modesty of Allah Almighty is one of generosity, kindness, and magnificence.

This name does not occur in the Qur’an, but it does in the Prophet’s Hadīth, “Indeed, Allah, Exalted and Glorified, is modest and concealing, and He loves modesty and concealment. So, when one of you takes a bath, let him conceal himself.”[1]

It came in the Hadīth reported by Salmān (may Allah be pleased with him), “Verily, your Almighty Lord is Modest and Generous. He is so Modest that He would not let His servant who raises his hands to Him (in supplication) be rejected, empty-handed.”[2] In light of this great name, I would say:

1. This name inspires love for Allah Almighty within our hearts, as well as modesty before Him; and it also makes us praise Him for His forbearance, generosity, pardon, and concealment towards His servants as it is indicated by His name ‘the Modest’.
2. Know that one of the attributes most pleasing to Allah Almighty in His servants is modesty. Indeed, it is a part of faith and it prompts people to keep away from all ugly and inappropriate behaviors and to do what is good.

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[1] Narrated by Abu Dāwūd and Al-Nasā’i

[2] Narrated by Abu Dāwūd and Al-Tirmidhi