[1-4] Thaalathat Al-Usul

Why does the author begin with the Basmalah? List 3 reasons.

Because:
1) The Book of Allah begins with it
2) The practice of the Messenger ﷺ in beginning his letters with it
3) The reported ḥadīth that every important matter not begun with the Basmalah is deprived of good (graded daif jiddan by Shiekh Al-Albani)

What unspoken wording completes “In the name of Allah,”? Why does it come afterward? List 2 reasons.

The complete meaning is: “In the name of Allah, I write.” The implied word is a verb because writing is an action

It comes afterward to:
1) Begin by seeking blessing through Allah’s name
2) Show that writing is done in His name alone

What does the name “Allah” mean? List two answers.

Allah is the name of the sole Lord who created and fashioned everything.

All of His other names follow from this name.

What is the meaning of al-Raḥmān—the Most Merciful?

Al-Raḥmān is a name exclusive to Allah. It means the One who possesses very great and extensive mercy.

What is the meaning of al-Raḥīm—the Bestower of Mercy—and how does it differ from al-Raḥmān?

Al-Raḥīm means the One who shows mercy to whomever He wills among His servants.

Unlike al-Raḥmān, the term may be used for others in a restricted sense. Al-Raḥmān describes Allah’s vast mercy; al-Raḥīm describes His mercy reaching whomever He wills.