Why is God sometimes referred to as 'Ar-Rahman' and sometimes as 'Al-Jabbar'?

In the Holy Quran, Allah introduces Himself through numerous names and attributes, each reflecting an aspect of His infinite perfection. These names, known as “Asma al-Husna” (The Most Beautiful Names), number more than ninety-nine, and each beautifully and precisely delineates one of the existential dimensions, power, knowledge, wisdom, and mercy of the Lord. The question arises: Why is God sometimes referred to by the attribute “Ar-Rahman,” which symbolizes boundless mercy and compassion, and at other times by “Al-Jabbar,” which signifies power, dominance, and might? The answer to this question lies in understanding the comprehensive and unparalleled perfection of the divine essence. Allah, the Exalted, is not merely a manifestation of a single attribute; rather, He encompasses all perfections and seemingly contrasting attributes that, despite their apparent opposition, reach absolute perfection within the divine essence, creating an unparalleled balance. **Elaboration on "Ar-Rahman"**: “Ar-Rahman” is one of the most prominent and frequently mentioned names of God in the Holy Quran, to the extent that it appears alongside “Ar-Rahim” at the beginning of every Surah (except Surah At-Tawbah). “Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem” (In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful) is the opening of the divine word, itself indicating the centrality of divine mercy. “Ar-Rahman” denotes the possessor of vast and all-encompassing mercy that extends to all beings, whether believers or disbelievers, righteous or wrongdoers. This mercy is a universal and inclusive mercy that forms the basis of creation, sustenance, existential and legislative guidance, and the preservation of the universe. All blessings that humans and other creatures enjoy, from sustenance and health to intelligence, abilities, and life opportunities, are manifestations of Allah’s Rahmani (all-encompassing) mercy. Due to this extensive mercy, Allah grants even sinners and those who are heedless of Him opportunities for life, repentance, and return. This attribute expresses the boundless love, unceasing grace, and absolute compassion of the Lord towards His creations. Indeed, the existence and continuation of being originate from His Rahmani mercy. **Elaboration on "Al-Jabbar"**: “Al-Jabbar” is another of the Asma al-Husna that carries deep and multiple meanings. This attribute is mentioned in Surah Al-Hashr, verse 23, alongside other attributes of divine majesty and power, such as “Al-Quddus, As-Salam, Al-Mu'min, Al-Muhaymin, Al-Aziz, Al-Mutakabbir.” One meaning of “Al-Jabbar” is “The Compeller” or “The Dominant One”; meaning He whose will is effective and nothing and no one can resist His power and command. He is the one by whom whatever He wills comes to pass, and whatever He intends is accomplished. This aspect of “Al-Jabbar” refers to Allah’s absolute power and unlimited authority, before which every force is insignificant. Another meaning of “Al-Jabbar” is “The Restorer” or “The Corrector.” He is the one who remedies deficiencies, corrects shortcomings, heals brokenness, and sets right what has been corrupted. This aspect of “Al-Jabbar” indicates Allah’s ability to mend and rebuild, to remove oppression and injustice, and to establish justice and fairness. He is the one who brings peace to broken hearts, aids the oppressed, and holds oppressors accountable for their deeds. This attribute is a manifestation of divine power in executing justice and establishing order in the universe. A third meaning of “Al-Jabbar” is “The Exalted” or “The Majestic”; meaning He who is above every imperfection, flaw, and need, possessing infinite greatness and majesty. **Coexistence and Balance of "Ar-Rahman" and "Al-Jabbar" Attributes**: The primary reason for God being introduced with these seemingly contrasting attributes is to demonstrate the absolute perfection and comprehensiveness of the divine essence. Allah is not only merciful and forgiving but also, at the same time, powerful and dominant. If only the attribute of divine mercy were emphasized, some might assume they could commit any sin without consequence, which contradicts the purpose of creation and the system of divine justice. Conversely, if only the attribute of power and might (Al-Jabbar) were highlighted, hope might vanish from hearts, and no one would dare to approach the divine presence, leaving humanity immersed only in fear of punishment. The combination of these two attributes presents a complete and balanced picture of the Lord: He is both kind and grants His servants opportunities and grace (Ar-Rahman), and at the same time, He is powerful and dominant, capable of punishing, giving due rights to the deserving, and fulfilling His will (Al-Jabbar). This balance is also evident in the universe. The creation of the world is based on order, mercy, sustenance, and life, which are manifestations of “Ar-Rahman.” However, strict and unviolable laws also govern it, and violating them has specific consequences (natural laws, death, earthquakes, diseases, etc.). These aspects demonstrate divine power and might, by which His will is also exercised through natural laws. For believers, this combination of attributes instills both hope and fear: hope in divine mercy and forgiveness (Ar-Rahman), and fear of His power and wrath in case of disobedience (Al-Jabbar). These two attributes cultivate faith in the human heart, keeping them always in a state of balance between hope and fear, so they neither despair of divine mercy nor feel secure from His cunning or punishment. Ultimately, this combination of attributes shows that Allah is just; He shows mercy, and also, in His rightful place, acts decisively to maintain order and justice in existence. The attribute “Al-Jabbar” complements “Ar-Rahman,” because mercy without executive power cannot achieve its goal, and justice cannot be enforced without power. And power without mercy leads to tyranny. Therefore, “Ar-Rahman Al-Jabbar,” together, present a comprehensive image of an infinitely perfect and wise Lord who is both Creator and Preserver, both Merciful and Just, both Provider and Accountant. This balance showcases the absolute beauty and perfection of Allah.