The Quran frequently uses the plural pronoun “We” (Arabic: , nanu). This usage generally refers to God (Allah) and is understood as the “royal We” or “plural of majesty.” Similar to how monarchs historically used “We” to denote their sovereign authority, the Quranic “We” emphasizes God’s absolute power, majesty, and encompassing nature. It can also reflect the inclusiveness of God’s actions, encompassing all creation and divine attributes. For instance, a verse stating “We created the heavens and the earth” signifies God’s sole act of creation.
This grammatical feature is significant because it offers insight into how the Quran portrays God’s attributes. The plural form avoids anthropomorphizing God, preventing the limitations associated with singular pronouns that might imply a restricted or localized deity. The majestic plural underscores the divine transcendence while simultaneously acknowledging God’s immanence and active involvement in the world. Historically, this understanding has played a vital role in Islamic theology and interpretations of God’s relationship with humanity and the universe.
