As Muslims, we believe that Allah is all-knowing and all-powerful, yet questions about how free will works within this framework often arise. For example, if Allah knows what will happen before we even come into existence, why create us knowing some may end up in hell? Similarly, if Allah is all-powerful and can intervene in our lives, how can we truly have free will? These complex philosophical questions are often challenging, especially when trying to explain them to individuals who may not be familiar with Islamic teachings.
In addressing these concerns, it is important to understand the concept of qadar (divine decree) in Islam. According to Dr. Ja`far Sheikh Idris, a respected professor of Islamic studies, the original meaning of the Arabic word qadar refers to a specified measure or amount, whether it pertains to quantities or qualities. Allah has created everything by a divine measure, as He says in the Qur’an: “We have created everything by measure” (Al-Qamar: 49).
Divine Knowledge and Free Will: How Do They Coexist?
In Islam, Allah’s foreknowledge does not negate human free will. Allah, in His infinite wisdom, knows the actions of each person before they come into being, but this knowledge does not dictate or constrain their choices. Just because Allah knows what choices we will make doesn’t mean He forces us to make them. Our free will is granted by Allah, and He knows how we will use it. This concept can be difficult to grasp, but it is rooted in the belief that Allah is both all-knowing and just, providing us with the freedom to choose our path while knowing the outcome.
The Qur’an addresses this delicate balance by stating: “Lo! This is an Admonishment, that whosoever will may choose a way unto his Lord. Yet ye will not, unless Allah willeth. Lo! Allah is Knower, Wise.” (Al-Insan: 29-30). This highlights that while we are given free will to choose, it is ultimately Allah who allows us to make these choices.
The Concept of Predestination in Islam
Allah’s will encompasses everything that happens in the universe, but this does not mean that every action we take is directly willed by Allah. He has granted us the ability to make choices, and while He knows what those choices will be, He does not force us to act in certain ways. For example, Allah could prevent us from doing evil, but He allows us the freedom to choose between good and evil. This freedom is essential, especially when it comes to matters of belief and disbelief.
The Qur’an makes this clear: “Say: The truth is from your Lord; so let whosoever will believe, and let whosoever will disbelieve” (Al-Kahf: 29). This verse shows that while Allah has the power to guide all people to the truth, He has chosen to allow individuals the freedom to believe or disbelieve.
Does Allah Approve of Evil?
One common misconception is that if Allah allows someone to do something, it means He approves of it. In Islam, this is not the case. Allowing something to happen is different from approving of it. Allah gives humans the freedom to make choices, but that doesn’t mean He condones wrongdoing. Allah does not approve of evil actions, and His will is that we choose the good. He says in the Qur’an: “If you are ungrateful, Allah is independent of you. Yet He approves not ungratefulness in His servants” (Az-Zumar: 7).
Recommended Readings on This Topic
To delve deeper into these topics, it is highly recommended to read the works of Imam Al-Ghazali, one of the most influential Islamic philosophers. His book Ihya’ `Ulum Ad-Din (Revival of the Sciences of the Religion) covers many aspects of faith, including divine knowledge, free will, and predestination. This text addresses both the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of these issues, making it an essential resource for understanding the philosophical discussions in Islam.
Conclusion
The questions surrounding free will, divine knowledge, and predestination in Islam are complex but not beyond understanding. Islam teaches that Allah is all-knowing and all-powerful, yet He has given humans the freedom to make choices. His knowledge of our choices does not interfere with our free will, and while He allows evil to occur, it is not an endorsement of such actions. By exploring the teachings of scholars like Imam Al-Ghazali, we can gain a deeper understanding of these profound concepts and better explain them to others.
For those looking to explore further, Imam Al-Ghazali’s works, particularly Ihya’ `Ulum Ad-Din, offer valuable insights into these theological discussions.