The path..
Whoever knows the meanings of the three names: (Al-‘Aliyy, Al-A‘la, Al-Muta‘āli) will realize that Allah Almighty is High by the attributes of perfection, Exalted above any defect or deficiency, and Higher than His creation.
Whoever grasps this fact, in terms of knowledge and servitude, will feel self-sufficient, honorable, and strong by his Lord.
{And We raised him to a high station.}
[Surat Maryam: 57]
High status, in both the worldly life and the Hereafter, can be attained by:
Faith:
{But whoever comes to Him as a believer having done righteous deeds -for them there will be the highest degrees.}
[Surat Taha: 75]
Knowledge:
{...Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by ranks...}
[ِSurat al-Mujādilah: 11]
Humility: The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) is authentically reported to have said:
“None acts humbly for the sake of Allah except that Allah elevates him.”
[Narrated by Muslim]
When one of the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) asked companionship of the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) in Paradise, he said to him:
“Help me achieve this for you by frequent prostration.”
[Narrated by Muslim]
In prostration, we say: “Subhāna rabbiya al-A‘la (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High).” Allah Almighty says:
{Glorify the name of your Lord, the Most High.}
[Surat al-A‘la: 1]
Commenting on this Dhikr in prostration, some said that it denotes the utmost submission and humility on the servant’s part through the noblest part in him, namely his face, as he puts it on dust. So, when he is at the lowest level, as required by prostration, it is appropriate for him to describe his Lord as the Most High.
Hence, prostration is the position in which a person is closest to the Almighty Lord. The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“The closest the servant is to his Lord when his is in prostration. So, increase supplication (therein).”
[Narrated by Muslim]
