Is Misusing Allah’s Name Through Acronyms or False Claims Sinful?
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
What is the Islamic ruling on misusing the Name of Allah with false attributions or abbreviations, such as forming acronyms that include the Divine Name without proper reverence or attaching it to false claims?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.
Misusing the Name of Allah, by false attribution, casual abbreviation, or frivolous acronym, is a grave matter in Islam. The Divine Name is not to be used lightly, let alone in ways that strip it of its sanctity or associate it with falsehood.
Allah Most High says,
“And do not take the Name of Allah in your oaths lightly. Indeed, Allah knows what you do.” [Quran, 2:224]
This verse warns against trivializing the Name of Allah, whether in speech, writing, or symbolism. It is not only an act of irreverence but can become sinful when used to validate false claims or fabricate meanings, especially in religious contexts.
False Attribution and Deliberate Misuse
Attributing something to Allah falsely, such as claiming divine endorsement without basis or using His Name in invented acronyms or slogans, borders on lying against Allah. Allah warns sternly:
“And who is more unjust than one who invents a lie against Allah?” [Qur’an, 6:93]
The scholars agree that speaking falsely in the Name of Allah, whether through fabricated hadith, false fatwas, or unverified religious claims, is among the gravest sins.
Reverence is Obligatory
The Name of Allah is Mubarak (blessed) and Mu‘azzam (venerated). As believers, we are commanded to honor His Name in every context. Allah (Most High) says:
“Glorify the Name of your Lord, the Most High.” [Quran, 87:1]
“Blessed is the Name of your Lord, full of Majesty and Honour.” [Quran, 55:78]
“And to Allah belong the Most Beautiful Names, so call upon Him by them and leave the company of those who deviate concerning His Names. They will be recompensed for what they used to do.” [Quran, 7:180]
Conclusion
In summary, misusing the Name of Allah through false attributions, careless acronyms, or disrespectful abbreviations is impermissible and may amount to a major sin, depending on intent and context. We urge all Muslims to be deeply cautious and always uphold reverence for the Sacred.
And Allah knows best.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town. He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy Prophetic living and fitness.
