Al-Muqaddim – The Expediter, the One who brings forward

Meaning of Al-Muqaddim

Al-Muqaddim is the One who brings forward whom and what He wills, whether in time, rank or honour. He advances some people in goodness and places events at their proper time. This name is understood alongside Al-Mu'akhkhir.

This name does not appear in this form in the Quran; it is included in the list narrated by at-Tirmidhi. Many scholars point out that this name is best mentioned together with its complementary name, so that the meaning is understood as part of Allah's perfect wisdom rather than in isolation.

Paired name: Al-Muqaddim is often mentioned together with Al-Mu'akhkhir (The Delayer).

Al-Muqaddim in the Quran

This name is not found in this exact form in the Quran. It is part of the list of names narrated in Jami' at-Tirmidhi (3507), and scholars have explained its meaning from the Arabic language and from the general teachings of the Quran and Sunnah.

Reflection

Being "first" or "early" in life is in Allah's hands; what matters is being foremost in good deeds.

Related names: sovereignty and kingship

• الْمَلِكُAl-MalikThe King, the Sovereign
• الْمُعِزُّAl-Mu'izzThe Giver of honour
• الْمُذِلُّAl-MudhillThe Giver of dishonour, the Humbler
• الْوَالِيAl-WaliThe Governor, the Patron
• مَالِكُ الْمُلْكِMalik al-MulkOwner of all Sovereignty
• الضَّارُّAd-DarrThe Distresser, the One who allows harm