Subhana Rabbi Al-Ala Meaning
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**Explanation of “سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الْأَعْلَى” (Subḥāna Rabbi al-Aʿlā):**
1. **سُبْحَانَ (Subḥāna):**
– Derived from the root “س-ب-ح” (s-b-ḥ), meaning “to glorify,” “to praise,” or “to declare free from imperfection.”
– It is an expression of *tasbīḥ* (glorification), affirming Allah’s absolute perfection and transcendence above all flaws, limitations, or anthropomorphic qualities.
– Often translated as “Glory be to,” “Exalted is,” or “Perfect is.”
2. **رَبِّيَ (Rabbi):**
– Means “my Lord,” from “رَبّ” (Rabb), which denotes:
– Sustainer, Provider, and Nurturer.
– The One who controls, governs, and perfects all creation.
– The possessive pronoun “ـِي” (-ī) signifies a personal connection, humility, and devotion.
3. **الْأَعْلَى (al-Aʿlā):**
– The superlative form of “عَلِي” (ʿalī, “High”), meaning “The Most High” or “The Highest.”
– Attributes of Allah:
– Absolute supremacy in rank, power, and authority.
– Transcendence above creation spatially, metaphysically, and in perfection.
– Mentioned in the Quran (e.g., 87:1, where this phrase appears).
**Context and Significance:**
– **Prostration (Sujūd):** Commonly recited during prostration in prayer (Ṣalāh), emphasizing humility before Allah’s grandeur.
– **Theological Meaning:** Rejects any form of shirk (associating partners with Allah) by affirming His unmatched elevation.
– **Spiritual Effect:** Cultivates awareness of divine majesty and the worshipper’s submission.
**Example in Quran:**
– *”سَبِّحِ اسْمَ رَبِّكَ الْأَعْلَى”* (87:1) – “Exalt the name of your Lord, the Most High.”
**Conclusion:**
The phrase encapsulates tawḥīd (monotheism), divine perfection, and the believer’s acknowledgment of Allah’s supreme greatness.