Why is Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim given importance in the Quran?

“Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim” (In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful) is a sacred and blessed phrase that appears at the beginning of almost every chapter (Surah) of the Holy Quran (except Surah At-Tawbah) and is invoked at the commencement of any virtuous act in Islam. The immense importance of this phrase stems from deep monotheistic concepts, boundless divine mercy, and the proper way to initiate any undertaking, all of which are emphasized in the Quran and the Prophetic Sunnah. This phrase is not merely a symbolic beginning but a fundamental pillar in shaping the intentions and actions of Muslims. One of its primary reasons for importance is its declaration of Allah’s oneness and singularity. By saying “Bismillah,” a person acknowledges that all power, assistance, and the source of every blessing originate solely from Allah, thus placing themselves on a path of servitude and absolute reliance upon Him. This commencement in Allah's Name helps one avoid polytheism (shirk) and reliance on anything other than God, entrusting all matters to Him. Furthermore, “Ar-Rahman” (The Most Gracious) and “Ar-Rahim” (The Most Merciful) are two prominent divine attributes that embody Allah's expansive mercy. “Ar-Rahman” refers to Allah's universal and encompassing mercy that extends to all beings, believers and non-believers alike, in this world. This mercy is the foundation of creation and sustenance. “Ar-Rahim” signifies Allah's specific and enduring mercy that is particularly bestowed upon believers and the righteous in the Hereafter. The combination of these two attributes in “Bismillah” reminds us that Allah is the source of all goodness and mercy, and any endeavor commenced in His Name is enveloped in His mercy and grace. This ensures that a person, in whatever they undertake, benefits from Allah’s mercy and assistance, preventing self-conceit and arrogance. Together, these two attributes offer a comprehensive depiction of Allah: both the absolute compassionate and the endlessly forgiving. The Holy Quran itself begins with “Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim,” which is a clear indication of its foundational importance. Surah Al-Fatihah, known as the Mother of the Quran, starts with this phrase. Indeed, the entire Quran is a manifestation of Allah's universal and specific mercy, conveyed to humanity through His divine word. This opening signifies that all the teachings, commandments, stories, and admonitions within the Quran are revealed under the umbrella of divine mercy, and its ultimate goal is to guide humanity towards salvation and to benefit from this mercy. When a Muslim begins reciting the Quran, saying “Bismillah” purifies their intention and focuses their attention on the primary source of the divine words. Another significance of “Bismillah” is that any act initiated with it gains a spiritual dimension. In Islamic culture, the daily life of Muslims is not separated from worship. Eating, drinking, sleeping, working, studying, and any other permissible activity, if commenced with “Bismillah,” not only receives divine blessings but also transforms into an act of worship for which there is eternal reward. This practice helps individuals remain mindful of Allah at all times and protects them from heedlessness and satanic whispers. Uttering “Bismillah” is like making a covenant with Allah, declaring: “O Lord, I begin this task in Your Name and with Your help, and I consider You as Witness and Overseer.” The story of Prophet Solomon (peace be upon him) in Surah An-Naml further highlights the special importance of “Bismillah.” In this Surah, Prophet Solomon's letter to the Queen of Sheba begins with “Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim.” This demonstrates that even in political, governmental, and international affairs, commencing with Allah's Name is a symbol of divine power and justice, as well as an invitation to monotheism and submission to Allah. This narrative emphasizes that “Bismillah” is not solely for acts of worship but can be applied to every aspect of life, imbuing it with divine blessing and direction. From a philosophical and mystical perspective, “Bismillah” is a gateway to the truth of existence. All beings in the universe commenced with “Bismillah,” and everything that exists is a manifestation of Allah’s Names and Attributes. Therefore, every movement in this universe occurs by Allah’s Name and Will. This phrase is the key to understanding the universe and humanity’s relationship with it. By repeating it, one gradually comes to realize that nothing in existence is independent, and everything is dependent on Allah. This understanding leads a person towards humility, gratitude, and submission to divine will. In conclusion, the importance of “Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim” in the Holy Quran extends beyond a mere phrase. It is an encapsulation of the Islamic worldview, the philosophy of existence, and the way of life for monotheists. This phrase is a constant reminder that everything originates from Him and returns to Him, and every endeavor must be initiated with pure intention, reliance upon Him, and under the umbrella of His boundless mercy. The use of “Bismillah” at the beginning of every task is a sign of servile etiquette and a plea for Allah’s help and blessings, which not only legitimizes and spiritualizes that action but also draws the human heart closer to Allah and protects it from dangers and pitfalls. It is a vital principle for cultivating the spirit of reliance, hope, and gratitude in the hearts of Muslims, and its blessings will manifest in this world and the Hereafter.