r-a-f

Description

The Arabic root رأف (r-a-f) conveys the core meaning of gentle compassion, tender mercy, and kindness that moves one to alleviate another's suffering or hardship. In the Quranic context, this root primarily describes Allah's attribute of being Ra'uf (the Most Kind/Compassionate), emphasizing His gentleness and tender care toward His creation, particularly in sparing them from punishment and easing their burdens. The term appears as both a divine attribute and occasionally as a quality praised in believers, highlighting a mercy that is softer and more immediately accessible than the broader concept of rahmah, often paired with it to emphasize Allah's comprehensive compassion.