Understanding Qadar and Its Effect on Iman

Understanding Qadar and Its Effect on Iman

Qadar, or Divine Decree, is one of the fundamental beliefs in Islam, deeply intertwined with Iman (faith). It refers to the concept that Allah has preordained everything that happens in the universe, from the smallest actions of an individual to the grand events of history. This concept plays a crucial role in shaping a Muslim’s worldview, actions, and their relationship with Allah.

Understanding Qadar is essential for every believer because it influences how they respond to life’s challenges, successes, and failures. The belief in Qadar shapes the Muslim’s trust in Allah’s wisdom, understanding of life’s purpose, and the ultimate goal of seeking Allah’s pleasure. It also significantly affects Iman, as a person’s understanding of Qadar can either strengthen or weaken their faith.

This blog post will explore the concept of Qadar in Islam, its effect on Iman, and how understanding and accepting Qadar can help a believer grow in their faith. We will delve into the Quranic and Hadith references to provide a deep and comprehensive understanding of Qadar and its relationship with Iman.

The Meaning of Qadar in Islam

In Islam, Qadar is the divine decree and predestination determined by Allah. It is the belief that Allah has preordained everything that happens in the universe, whether good or bad, and nothing occurs except by His will and permission. The belief in Qadar is a crucial part of the Islamic faith and one of the six pillars of Iman.

Qadar and Divine Knowledge

Allah’s knowledge encompasses all things, past, present, and future. Everything that happens is part of Allah’s divine plan. The Quran mentions that Allah has already written everything that will occur before the creation of the heavens and the earth:

“Indeed, all things We created with predestination.”
Arabic:

إِنَّا كُلَّ شَيْءٍ خَلَقْنَاهُ بِقَدَرٍۢ
(Quran 54:49)

This verse emphasizes that everything in existence occurs according to Allah’s will and is predestined by His infinite knowledge and wisdom.

Qadar and Divine Will

While Allah has preordained all things, it is important to understand that Qadar does not negate free will. Allah has given human beings the ability to choose their actions, but those choices are within the scope of Allah’s greater plan. The decree of Qadar ensures that Allah’s will is carried out, regardless of human actions, but it does not force people to act against their free will.

The Effect of Qadar on Iman

The belief in Qadar has a profound effect on a Muslim’s Iman. It helps believers understand the ultimate sovereignty of Allah and strengthens their trust in His wisdom and justice. The belief in Qadar helps a believer navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with patience, resilience, and unwavering faith in Allah’s plan.

Strengthening Trust in Allah’s Wisdom

One of the key effects of believing in Qadar is that it strengthens a Muslim’s trust in Allah’s wisdom. The knowledge that everything, whether perceived as good or bad, happens according to Allah’s plan allows a believer to trust in Allah’s greater purpose. Even when faced with trials and difficulties, a believer understands that these are part of Allah’s divine decree and that there is wisdom behind everything, even if it is not immediately apparent.

“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.”
Arabic:

مَآ أَصَابَ مِن مُّصِيبَةٍۢ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ وَلَا فِىٓ أَنفُسِكُمۡ إِلَّا فِى كِتَـٰبٍۢ مِّنۢ قَبْلِ أَن نَّبْرَأَهَآ إِنَّ ذَٰلِكَ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ يَسِيرٌۭ
(Quran 57:22)

This verse affirms that all events are preordained by Allah, which should lead a believer to place their full trust in Allah, knowing that whatever happens is for the best, even if it may be difficult to comprehend.

Acceptance of Life’s Challenges

Belief in Qadar helps a believer accept the trials and challenges of life with patience. When faced with hardship, a believer who understands Qadar knows that everything happens for a reason and that Allah, in His infinite wisdom, has a purpose behind it. This understanding alleviates feelings of frustration, despair, and helplessness.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“How amazing is the affair of the believer, for his affairs are always good. If something good happens to him, he is grateful and that is good for him, and if something bad happens to him, he is patient and that is good for him.”
Arabic:

عَجَبًا لِأَمْرِ الْمُؤْمِنِ إِنَّ أَمْرَهُ كُلَّهُ لَهُ خَيْرٌۭ وَلَيْسَ ذَٰلِكَ لِأَحَدٍ إِلَّا لِلْمُؤْمِنِ ۚ إِنْ أَصَابَتْهُ سَرَّاءُ شَكَرَ فَكَانَ خَيْرًۭا لَهُۥ وَإِنْ أَصَابَتْهُ ضَرَّاءُ صَبَرَ فَكَانَ خَيْرًۭا لَهُۥ
(Sahih Muslim)

This hadith teaches that both the good and bad experiences in a believer’s life are part of Allah’s plan, and that each moment should be met with gratitude or patience, as both bring blessings and rewards.

The Interplay Between Qadar and Human Responsibility

While belief in Qadar is essential, it is equally important to understand that human beings are still responsible for their actions. Qadar does not excuse human beings from striving to do good or from seeking Allah’s guidance and mercy. Every individual is accountable for the choices they make, and they are expected to act within the boundaries of what Allah has revealed in the Quran and Sunnah.

The Role of Free Will

Islam teaches that while Allah has preordained everything, human beings still have free will and are responsible for their actions. Allah’s decree encompasses the choices that individuals make, but it does not compel them to act against their will. A person remains free to choose their actions, and they will be judged based on those choices.

“And say, ‘The truth is from your Lord. So whoever wills – let him believe; and whoever wills – let him disbelieve.’”
Arabic:

وَقُلِ ٱلۡحَقُّ مِن رَّبِّكُمْۖ فَمَنۡ شَاءَ فَلْيُؤْمِنۖ وَمَنۡ شَاءَ فَلْيَكْفُرۢ
(Quran 18:29)

This verse emphasizes that belief and disbelief are within the individual’s choice, and while Allah knows the outcome, humans are still responsible for their decisions.

The Psychological and Emotional Impact of Qadar

Understanding Qadar has a significant psychological and emotional impact on a believer. It provides them with a sense of peace and contentment, knowing that Allah’s plan is always better than their own. This understanding can alleviate feelings of anxiety, frustration, and confusion, especially in times of hardship.

Finding Comfort in Allah’s Plan

When a believer faces hardship or loss, their belief in Qadar helps them understand that it is not a random event, but part of Allah’s will. This belief brings comfort and tranquility, as the believer knows that Allah is in control and has a purpose for everything.

“Indeed, Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.”
Arabic:

لَا يُكَلِّفُ اللَّهُ نَفْسًۭا إِلَّا وُسْعَهَا
(Quran 2:286)

This verse reassures the believer that they are never given a trial greater than what they can endure, which fosters hope and perseverance.

Qadar and Iman: The Strengthening of Faith

Belief in Qadar strengthens Iman by reminding the believer of Allah’s absolute power, knowledge, and wisdom. It humbles the believer, making them aware that they are part of Allah’s greater plan and that nothing happens without His permission. This humility leads to greater reliance on Allah, an increased sense of gratitude, and a deeper connection to the Creator.

The Test of Iman

The true test of Iman comes when a believer faces difficulties and challenges. Those who believe in Qadar are able to maintain their faith and trust in Allah, knowing that everything, whether good or bad, is part of Allah’s divine plan. This leads to greater resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

“Indeed, Allah is with those who fear Him and those who are doers of good.”
Arabic:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ مَعَ الَّذِينَ اتَّقَوْا۟ وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمْ مُحْسِنُونَ
(Quran 16:128)

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining fear and consciousness of Allah, as He is always with those who strive to do good.

Conclusion: The Role of Qadar in Strengthening Iman

Belief in Qadar is an essential aspect of Iman that strengthens the believer’s trust in Allah, provides peace of mind in times of adversity, and reinforces the understanding that everything happens according to Allah’s will and wisdom. By embracing the concept of Qadar, a Muslim learns to navigate life’s challenges with patience, gratitude, and resilience, all the while remaining steadfast in their faith.

Qadar helps believers find peace in the face of uncertainty, trusting that Allah’s plan is always for the best. It reminds them of Allah’s ultimate sovereignty and gives them the strength to continue striving for righteousness, knowing that their actions are part of a much greater divine plan.

Through a deep understanding of Qadar, a believer strengthens their Iman, grows in their trust in Allah, and faces life with hope, perseverance, and unwavering faith in the Creator’s will.

References:

• Quranic Verses: Surah 57:22, Surah 2:286, Surah 18:29, Surah 4:120, Surah 16:128
• Hadith: Sahih Muslim, Sahih Bukhari