Al-Hakam — The Arbitrator

Al-Hakam is the Judge whose ruling is final and from whom there is no appeal. The name differs from Al-Hakim, the Wise: Al-Hakam points to the act of deciding between disputants, Al-Hakim to the wisdom behind every decision. The Quran has the Prophet ﷺ ask whether he should seek a judge other than Allah (6:114), the implied answer being that no other judge could be sought. Classical scholars stress that His judgement is inseparable from His justice and knowledge, so it is never arbitrary.

Updated July 16, 2026