The Word ‘We/Us’ Used By Allah In the Holy Quran

Question: I was wondering who does the ‘we’ refer to in the Quran and in the last line of sura 21 ayat 84 where it is sometimes translated  as ‘as a reminder for all who worship us.’ what does ‘us’ mean when we are to only worship Allah?

 

Answer: Assalamu Alaikum,

‘We’ in the Quran refers to Allah Alone whenever Allah uses the word ‘we’. In the verse quoted above, ‘Us’ refers to Allah also. Both these are in the plural form and these refer to Allah Alone. The usage of a plural for Allah is a plural of respect and not number. In the Arabic language as well as other Middle East and ancient languages, the plural of respect is used to show honour, greatness, respect and glory to God Almighty. When used in this manner, these words do not refer to more than one being or person.

And Allah Knows Best.

Mufti Waseem Khan

12/2/2015