).webp "Belief in Qadar (Divine Decree)") |
| Belief in Qadar (Divine Decree) |
Belief in Qadar inspires Muslims to trust in Allah’s wisdom, remain patient in hardships, and avoid arrogance in moments of success. It serves as a powerful reminder of Allah’s omnipotence and omniscience while providing spiritual reassurance in life’s trials.
In this post, we will explore the meaning, aspects, and significance of belief in Qadar, supported by verses from the Quran and hadith.
Understanding Belief in Qadar
Qadar refers to Allah’s preordained plan for all that exists. Every action, event, and occurrence—whether good or bad—is under Allah’s control. This belief incorporates four essential components:Allah’s KnowledgeAllah has complete and eternal knowledge of everything that has happened, is happening, and will happen.
"And with Him are the keys of the unseen; none knows them except Him. And He knows what is on the land and in the sea. Not a leaf falls but that He knows it. And no grain is there within the darkness of the earth and no moist or dry [thing] but that it is [written] in a clear record."
(Surah Al-An’am, 6:59)
Allah’s Writing
Everything has been written in al-Lawh al-Mahfuz (the Preserved Tablet), which contains the divine record of all events."Do you not know that Allah knows what is in the heaven and earth? Indeed, it is all in a record. Indeed, that is easy for Allah."
(Surah Al-Hajj, 22:70)
Allah’s Will
Nothing can happen unless Allah wills it. His will is absolute and encompasses all creation."And you do not will except that Allah wills." (Surah Al-Insan, 76:30)
Allah’s Creation
Allah is the creator of everything, including human actions and their outcomes."While Allah created you and that which you do?" (Surah As-Saffat, 37:96)
The Balance Between Qadar and Free Will
While Allah’s decree governs everything, Islam also affirms human responsibility for choices and actions. Humans are granted free will to decide their course in life, yet these choices occur within the framework of Allah’s knowledge and will."Indeed, Allah does not wrong the people at all, but it is the people who are wronging themselves."
(Surah Yunus, 10:44)
This balance between divine decree and free will emphasizes that individuals are accountable for their deeds, but Allah’s ultimate control ensures that justice prevails.
The Significance of Belief in QadarInstills Patience and Contentment
Belief in Qadar helps Muslims accept life’s trials with patience and recognize that hardships are part of Allah’s plan."No disaster strikes upon the earth or among yourselves except that it is in a register before We bring it into being—indeed that, for Allah, is easy. In order that you not despair over what has eluded you and not exult [in pride] over what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful." (Surah Al-Hadid, 57:22-23)
Encourages Gratitude
Recognizing Allah’s control over life fosters gratitude for blessings and deters arrogance over achievements.Promotes Reliance on Allah (Tawakkul)
Belief in Qadar strengthens reliance on Allah while striving for good. Muslims are encouraged to put in their best effort but leave the results to Allah.The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
"Strive to do that which will benefit you and seek the help of Allah, and do not feel helpless. If anything befalls you, do not say, ‘If only I had done such and such,’ rather say, ‘Qadar Allah wa ma sha’a fa’ala (It is the decree of Allah and He does what He wills).’"
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2664)
Fosters Optimism and Hope
Even in adversity, belief in Qadar offers hope, as everything happens by Allah’s wisdom and mercy.Practical Implications of Belief in Qadar
Acceptance of Trials
Muslims who believe in Qadar are more likely to face challenges with resilience, understanding that trials are a test of faith."And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:155)
Responsibility for Actions
Despite belief in Qadar, Muslims must strive to act righteously and avoid sins, as they are accountable for their choices."So whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom's weight of evil will see it." (Surah Az-Zalzalah, 99:7-8)
Effort Combined with Tawakkul
Belief in Qadar encourages Muslims to exert effort while trusting Allah for the outcomes.Examples from the Lives of the Prophets
The Prophets embodied the essence of belief in Qadar. Their lives illustrate submission to Allah’s will and perseverance in the face of trials.Prophet Yusuf (AS) endured betrayal, imprisonment, and separation from his family but trusted in Allah’s plan, eventually becoming a ruler in Egypt.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) faced immense persecution during his mission in Makkah but remained steadfast, trusting Allah’s promise of eventual victory.
"Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease." (Surah Ash-Sharh, 94:6)
Conclusion
Belief in Qadar is a cornerstone of Islamic faith, encapsulating the profound understanding that Allah’s will and wisdom govern the universe. This belief does not negate human accountability but complements it by reinforcing reliance on Allah and fostering patience, gratitude, and hope.As Muslims, embracing Qadar allows us to navigate life’s uncertainties with a sense of purpose and trust in Allah’s infinite wisdom. By remembering the words of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), we find solace in the knowledge that every trial and blessing is part of Allah’s perfect plan.
"Say, 'Never will we be struck except by what Allah has decreed for us; He is our protector.' And upon Allah let the believers rely." (Surah At-Tawbah, 9:51)