What is the Definition of a Wali According to Scholars of Kalam?

■ What is the Definition of a Wali According to Scholars of Kalam?

Scholars of kalam (theology) describe a wali as a person with correct beliefs based on solid evidence and who performs righteous deeds according to Islamic law (shari’ah). Additionally, they explain that “wali” in Arabic is an emphatic form of someone who continuously obeys Allah ﷻ, without any lapse into disobedience. It may also imply a person whom Allah ﷻ consistently protects from sin and grants the ability to remain obedient.

The term wali draws from several Qur’anic verses, such as:

❝Allah is the protector of those who believe.❞

(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:257)

❝And He protects the righteous.❞

(Surah Al-A’raf, 7:196)

❝You are our protector, so grant us victory over the disbelieving people.❞

(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:286)

❝Indeed, Allah is the protector of those who believe, whereas disbelievers have no protector.❞

(Surah Muhammad, 47:11)

❝Your protector is Allah, His Messenger, and those who believe.❞

(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:55)

Imam Fakhr al-Din al-Razi explains that a wali, linguistically, means “close.” When a person becomes close to Allah ﷻ through sincere obedience and devotion, Allah ﷻ also comes close to them with His mercy, favor, and kindness, thus granting them the station of wilayah (sainthood). (Tafsir Kabir, Vol. 21, p. 85)

Source:
Author Name: Abul Haqaiq Allama Ghulam Murtaza Saqi Mujadadi, Book Name: Islam aur Wilayat (Urdu Language), Nooria Rizwiya Publisher, Published 2004, Maktabah Nooria Rizwia ● Posted by FJ in FB 10.11.24