What is the ruling on remembering Allah Almighty by His singular name "Allah, Allah," and what is the validity of the evidence of those who permit it? And how do we respond to those who disparage Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim for not permitting it?
The remembrance of Allah using a singular name, such as "Allah, Allah" or "He, He," is not legislated in the Qur'an and Sunnah, nor has it been authentically transmitted from the Pious Predecessors (Salaf). Rather, it is an innovation of later generations. Arguing for its permissibility based on the verse, "And remember the name of your Lord," is incorrect, as the meaning of this verse is to supplicate using His beautiful names or to intend the countenance of the Lord through one's actions. Furthermore, relying on the weak hadith, "The Hour will not be established until 'Allah, Allah' is no longer said," is unsound. As for Bilal's saying, "Ahad, Ahad" (One, One), its meaning is that Allah is One. And using the verse, "Say: Allah. Then leave them to play in their [vain] discourse," as a basis for this practice is mistaken. The verse, "So remember Me; I will remember you," means: remember Me through obedience, and I will remember you with reward. The legislated form of remembrance is to use a complete phrase, as transmitted from the Prophet (peace be upon him) and the Salaf, such as "La ilaha illa Allah" (There is no deity except Allah) and "Alhamdulillah" (All praise is due to Allah). Attacking scholars has severe consequences.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/63612