Abu Huraira reported God’s messenger as saying, “God had ninety-nine names, one short of a hundered. He who retains them in his memory* will enter paradise.” A version has, “And He is One. He loves what is single.” *The Arabic is ahsaha, a word which has different meanings. Besides the meaning above can mean to number, to reach the last number, to understand, to attain comprehensive knowledge.(Bukhari and Muslim.)
Commentary on the Divine Names
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) establishes the profound spiritual significance of knowing and internalizing the ninety-nine names of Allah. The term "ahsaha" encompasses multiple dimensions: memorization with the tongue, comprehension with the heart, and implementation through righteous actions that reflect the meanings of these divine attributes.
Theological Significance
The number ninety-nine does not limit Allah's names, as He has innumerable attributes beyond human comprehension. This number represents those names specifically revealed to humanity for our spiritual benefit. The phrase "He is One. He loves what is single" emphasizes Allah's absolute oneness (tawhid) and His appreciation for acts of singular devotion.
Practical Implementation
True "retention" requires more than mere memorization. The believer must understand each name's meaning, reflect upon its manifestations in creation, and embody its qualities in conduct. For example, knowing Allah as Al-Ghafur (The All-Forgiving) should inspire one to forgive others, while knowing Him as Ar-Razzaq (The Provider) cultivates trust in divine sustenance.
The promise of paradise signifies that internalizing these names transforms the soul, aligning it with divine qualities and purifying it from base characteristics. This process constitutes the highest form of spiritual education and character refinement.