Qayyum

This attribute is affirmed within various verses of the Qur’an, which exemplify the infinite nature of Allah’s sustenance. The most illustrative among these is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255), often referred to as Ayat al-Kursi (The Throne Verse). The verse states, “Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence.” The recurrence of the term “Qayyum” across diverse interpretations serves as a reminder of His omnipotent governance. Such assertions invite believers to ponder their dependence on divine providence.

Historical Context of Qayyum in Shia Doctrine

Within Shia Islam, the attribute of Qayyum has historically influenced theological discourse and jurisprudential philosophy. Understanding the historical backdrop sheds light on how Shia scholars have interpreted this concept. In the early Islamic period, the debates surrounding the nature of divine attributes posed challenges that prompted deeper examinations of terms like Qayyum. Shia scholars, aiming to delineate their beliefs from those of Sunni counterparts, elaborated upon this attribute, positing that Allah’s Qayyum manifests not merely as sustenance but also as a symbol of constant divine presence in the lives of believers.