Al‑Asma’ wa al‑Sifat by Al‑Bayhaqi

About the author & background
Imam Abu Bakr Ahmad ibn Husayn ibn Ali ibn Musa al‑Bayhaqi (994‑1066 CE) was a noted hadith scholar and theologian.
His “Al‑Asma’ wa al‑Sifat” is considered a major classic of Islamic theology (ʿaqīdah) focusing on the Names and Attributes of Allah.

Purpose & scope
The book collects evidence (Qurʾan, hadith, athar of early generations) regarding the names and attributes of Allah, and presents a systematic treatment of how Muslims should believe about these attributes.
It addresses contentious theological issues (e.g., anthropomorphism, meanings of divine attributes) and presents the position of the early scholars (salaf) and the Ashʿarī tradition.

Structure & key themes

Large sections quoting textual evidence (Qur’an, hadith) for various names & attributes.

Discussion of interpretation‑methodology: when to affirm, when to consign meaning to Allah (tafwīd), when to make metaphorical interpretation (taʾwīl) or avoid it.

Emphasis that Allah’s attributes are not to be likened to creation (no anthropomorphism). For example, on the divine laughter attribute.

Why it matters / impact

It is a seminal reference for Muslim belief about God’s names & attributes — core to ʿaqīdah.

It is praised in historical sources: e.g., Ibn al‑Subkī said “I do not know anything that compares to it.”

It forms part of curricula in classical theology and remains cited today.

Who should read it & how to approach it

Suitable for readers already familiar with Islamic belief and terminology; perhaps intermediate to advanced students of ʿaqīdah.

Because the topic involves theological subtleties and often complex Arabic, translations/commentaries are helpful.

It can deepen understanding of what Muslims believe about Allah’s names/attributes and why, and help avoid simplistic understandings.

Summary in one sentence
A foundational theological treatise providing comprehensive evidence and explanation regarding the divine names and attributes — affirming them in a way consistent with the early Muslim understanding while avoiding anthropomorphism.