The Book Pertaining to the Remembrance of Allah, Supplication, Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness

Sahih Muslim 2677 b

Hadith Text

Verily, there are ninety-nine names for Allah, i. e. hundred excepting one. He who enumerates them would get into Paradise. And Hammam has made this addition on the authority of Abu Huraira who reported it from Allah's Apostle (ﷺ) that he said:" He is Odd (one) and loves odd number."

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes the virtue of knowing and enumerating the ninety-nine names of Allah. The enumeration refers not merely to counting but to understanding their meanings, believing in them, and acting upon their implications in worship and conduct.

The promise of Paradise for one who enumerates these names demonstrates the tremendous merit of this practice, as it leads to comprehensive knowledge of Allah's attributes and perfections.

The addition regarding Allah being "Odd" (Al-Wāḥid) refers to His absolute Oneness in essence, attributes, and actions. His love for odd numbers reflects the perfection of His wisdom, as odd numbers cannot be divided equally, symbolizing His indivisible unity.

Scholars explain that this love manifests in various acts of worship prescribed in odd numbers, such as the odd-numbered rak'ahs of Witr prayer and the recommended repetition of dhikr in odd numbers.

Practical Implications

The believer should strive to memorize the ninety-nine names, comprehend their meanings, and reflect upon them in worship.

One should incorporate these names in supplication, as Allah responds to those who call upon Him by His beautiful names.

The understanding of Allah's Oneness should strengthen tawḥīd and remove any traces of shirk from one's heart and actions.

Preference should be given to odd numbers in voluntary acts of worship where no specific number is prescribed, following the divine preference.