Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Allah has ninety-nine Names, one-hundred less one; and he who memorized them all by heart will enter Paradise." To count something means to know it by heart.
Oneness, Uniqueness of Allah (Tawheed)
Sahih al-Bukhari 7392
Hadith Text
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Allah has ninety-nine Names, one-hundred less one; and he who memorized them all by heart will enter Paradise." To count something means to know it by heart.
Commentary on the Divine Names
The ninety-nine Names represent Allah's perfect attributes and encompass all aspects of His divine perfection. Memorization here implies not merely verbal repetition but deep understanding and internalization of their meanings.
The Meaning of "Counting"
The phrase "to count something means to know it by heart" indicates that true enumeration requires comprehensive knowledge and preservation in memory. It transcends mere numerical calculation to encompass full comprehension and retention.
Spiritual Significance
Memorizing the Divine Names with understanding leads to spiritual refinement, as each name reflects an aspect of Allah's perfection that the believer should aspire to emulate within human limitations.
Paradise as Reward
The promise of Paradise for those who memorize the Names demonstrates the tremendous merit of this practice, connecting knowledge of Allah's attributes with ultimate spiritual success in the Hereafter.