The Transcendence of Allah, the Exalted, and His Companionship with Creation (A Doctrinal and Critical Study in the Light of the Qur’an and the Prophetic Sunnah)

Abstract

This study explores two fundamental attributes of Allah, the Exalted—His transcendence above creation and His companionship with it—within the framework of Islamic doctrine. The transcendence of Allah affirms His absolute elevation, independence, and incomparability, signifying that He is above and beyond all creation in essence, attributes, and actions. At the same time, His companionship expresses His nearness, encompassing knowledge, hearing, sight, and providential care for His servants. Understanding these attributes requires a balanced perspective that safeguards divine majesty while affirming divine nearness. Drawing on the Qur’an, the Prophetic Sunnah, and the consensus of early Muslim scholars, this paper critically examines classical and contemporary interpretations of these two attributes. It highlights how misconceptions—such as equating transcendence with remoteness or interpreting companionship as spatial immanence—lead to theological distortions. Through a doctrinal and critical lens, the study demonstrates that transcendence and companionship are not contradictory but complementary, reflecting the perfection of divine attributes. The findings underscore the significance of integrating textual evidence, sound reasoning, and the innate human disposition (fiṭrah) in approaching divine attributes. By doing so, the study affirms that Allah, the Exalted, remains transcendent above all creation while being ever-present in His knowledge, power, and mercy.