The Transcendence of God over the Throne
The Arabic words used here are:
- al-‘arsh, which means “the throne;
- istawa, which means “took position,” “became straight,” “became equal” and “became upright.”
Saheeh International Translation [SIT] translates istawa as “established above.”
Indeed your Lord is God Who created the heavens and the earth in six days and then established Himself above the Throne, arranging the matter [of His creation]. There is no intercessor except after His permission. That is God, your Lord, so worship Him. Then will you not remember?[13]
It is God Who created the heavens without pillars that you [can] see; then He established Himself above the Throne and made subject the sun and the moon, each running [its course] for a specified term. He arranges [each] matter; He details the signs that you may, of the meeting with your Lord, be certain.[14]
The Most Merciful [who is] above the Throne established.[15]
He Who created the heavens and the earth and what is between them in six days and then established Himself above the Throne – the Most Merciful, so ask about Him one well-informed.[16]