Derived from the lecture series of Nekounam, (Session 1676)
The term "Permission" (Idhn) in the Holy Qur'an, like a radiant jewel, appears in numerous verses with profound and multilayered meanings, signifying divine consent, authorisation, and proclamation. This concept, employed 102 times in the Qur'an, opens a theological and philosophical window to comprehend the wise system of creation and divine guidance. Permission, both in its specific sense which pertains to the friends of God and chosen servants and in its general meaning, encompassing the subjugation of the world for all creatures, reflects the boundless will and wisdom of the Divine. In this treatise, through meticulous examination of Qur'anic verses and the in-depth analyses presented in the lectures, the concept of permission is explored in its various dimensions, elucidating its status within the cosmic order and its relation to the Divine saints, with clear and dignified language.
The word "Permission" (Idhn) linguistically denotes consent, authorisation, and proclamation, akin to a key that opens the gates of Divine licence to the servants. In the Holy Qur'an, this term is employed in multiple meanings, all revolving around Divine wisdom and knowledge. Divine permission is a command imbued with awareness and wisdom, manifesting in two principal aspects: specific permission, which is granted to the chosen servants and friends of God, and general permission, which encompasses the subjugation of the universe for all creatures. As the Qur'an states:
He has subjected to you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth.
(Srah Ibrhm, 14:33)
This verse exemplifies the general Divine permission that places the resources of the cosmos at mankind's disposal.
Specific permission, like a rare gem, is dedicated to the friends of God and His select servants. This type of permission is a licence granted by God to the Prophets, saints, and special believers, enabling them to exercise authority in Divine matters. In contrast, general permission, like an abundant stream, extends to all creatures and entails the subjugation of the universe for the benefit of all. Each of these two dimensions, in its place, demonstrates the wise Divine system governing creation.
One of the most prominent manifestations of specific permission is in the realm of intercession. The Qur'an states:
Intercession will not benefit anyone with Him except whom He permits.
(Srah Al-Baqarah, 2:255)
This verse indicates that intercession is only possible with Divine permission and is granted to those who are authorised by God to perform this great act.
Specific permission also becomes evident in the capacity to speak in the Divine presence. The Qur'an says:
They do not speak except for one whom the Most Merciful has permitted and who is right in speech.
(Srah An-Naba, 78:38)
This verse illustrates that the authorised servants who have received permission from the Most Merciful speak nothing but the truth and righteousness. Their words, like a light of Divine wisdom, spring from deep perception and awareness.
Specific permission also plays a role in designating sacred places, as the Qur'an states:
In houses [which Allah has permitted] to be raised and wherein His name is mentioned...
(Srah An-Nr, 24:36)
This verse refers to sanctified locations ordained by Divine permission for worship and remembrance of God, as if these houses shine like stars in the spiritual firmament by Divine decree.
Permission in the sense of proclamation is also employed in the Qur'an. A prominent example is found in Srah At-Tawbah:
And [there is] a proclamation from Allah and His Messenger to the people on the day of the greater pilgrimage.
(Srah At-Tawbah, 9:3)
This verse indicates Divine permission to announce the truth to all humanity, as if the Divine herald proclaims reality with God's consent, reaching the ears of creation.
The Permitted One is a servant whom God has granted specific permission, equipping him as a commander in the field of existence with Divine licence. These servants, including the Prophets and the friends of God, have received permission from the Most Merciful to intervene in worldly matters. Their speech and will, like a Divine key, open the doors to great transformations: if they say someone is healed, the healing occurs; if they decree a problems removal, it is removed; and if they declare someones virtue or vice, it comes to pass. This power stems from the specific permission granted by the Most Merciful and is unique to chosen servants.
Conversely, some falsely claim Divine permission. The Qur'an states:
Pharaoh said, Did you believe in him before I gave you permission?
(Srah Ash-Shuar, 26:15)
This verse exposes the misuse of the concept of permission. Pharaoh, considering himself the permitted one, made a baseless claim, whereas specific permission is solely granted by God to select servants.
Another Qur'anic verse clarifies the connection between specific permission and truthfulness:
They do not speak except for one whom the Most Merciful has permitted and who is right in speech.
(Srah An-Naba, 78:38)
This verse demonstrates that the permitted one, owing to Divine inspiration and profound insight, utters nothing but truth and correctness. In contrast, those lacking permission are spiritually afflicted, prone to error and deficiency.
In instances where the word permission is used in the form of taful (such as faadhanu or taadhun), it carries a majestic and threatening attribute. This usage resembles a summons rising from the Divine Throne, announcing warning or punishment. For example:
But if you do not, then be informed of war from Allah
