Affirming the Divine Attribute of Laughter: Its Causes and the Effects of Belief in It.

Abstract

Abstract:

The attribute of laughter (ḍaḥik) is among the divine active attributes affirmed for Allah (Exalted be He) by sound evidence from the Prophetic Sunnah. The early generations (al-salaf) unanimously affirmed this attribute. This study, entitled “Affirming the Divine Attribute of Laughter: Its Causes and the Effects of Belief in It,” addresses three main points:

First, the approach of the early generations in affirming the divine attribute of laughter.

Second, an explanation of the causes that lead to Allah’s laughter at His servant, as reported in sound texts.

Third, a presentation of the effects and spiritual benefits of believing in this attribute.

The study employs both inductive and inferential methods.

The key findings of the research include:

1.The attribute of laughter is an active, narrative divine attribute, established by authentic evidence in a manner befitting Allah’s majesty and greatness. The early generations affirmed it as a real attribute, in a manner appropriate to Allah (Exalted be He).

2.The texts mention several causes by which the servant may earn Allah’s laughter.

1. The attribute has profound faith-based effects and ethical implications, requiring the Muslim to strive in both knowledge and practice to attain Allah’s laughter. Among the greatest consequences of Allah’s laughter at His servant is the exemption from being held accountable on the Day of Judgment, as established by authentic hadith.