In Islam, the concept of Qadr (predestination or divine decree) refers to Allah's comprehensive knowledge and control over all things in the universe, including past, present, and future events. Qadr encompasses the belief that everything, from the smallest atom to the grandest cosmic event, occurs according to Allah's will and wisdom. Understanding the concept of Qadr involves several key principles:
1. Divine Knowledge: Allah possesses perfect and comprehensive knowledge of all things, including what has happened, what is happening, and what will happen in the future. His knowledge is not bound by time or space, and He knows all things with absolute certainty.
2. Divine Decree: Allah's Qadr encompasses His decree and determination of all events and outcomes. Nothing happens in the universe except by His will and permission. This includes both good and bad events, as well as human actions and choices.
Abu Dawud collected this Hadith from Ahmad bin Hanbal. Imam Ahmad recorded that Abdullah bin `Umar said that the Messenger of Allah said,
كُلُّ شَيْءٍ بِقَدَرٍ حَتْى الْعَجْزُ وَالْكَيْس
(Every thing is predetermined, even laziness and intelligence.) Muslim collected this Hadith using a chain of narration through Imam Malik. There is also an authentic Hadith in which the Messenger of Allah said,
اسْتَعِنْ بِاللهِ وَلَا تَعْجَزْ، فَإِنْ أَصَابَكَ أَمْرٌ فَقُلْ: قَدَّرَ اللهُ وَمَا شَاءَ فَعَلَ، وَلَا تَقُلْ: لَوْ أَنِّي فَعَلْتُ كَذَا لَكَانَ كَذَا، فَإِنَّ لَوْ تَفْتَحُ عَمَلَ الشَّيْطَان
(Seek the help of Allah and do not succumb to feebleness. And when an affliction strikes you, say, "Allah has decreed this, and He does as He wills.'' Do not say, "Had I done this or that, this or that would have happened, because "if'' opens the door wide for the work of Ash-Shaytan.)''
3. Human Free Will: Despite the concept of Qadr, Islam also upholds the principle of human free will and responsibility. While Allah has decreed all things, humans possess the ability to make choices and decisions. They are accountable for their actions and will be judged accordingly on the Day of Judgment.
4. Trust in Allah's Wisdom: Belief in Qadr requires Muslims to trust in Allah's wisdom and plan, even when faced with adversity or challenges. Muslims understand that everything occurs for a reason, and Allah's wisdom transcends human comprehension. This belief provides comfort and solace during difficult times and encourages reliance on Allah's guidance and mercy.
Allah's statement,
إِنَّا كُلَّ شَىْءٍ خَلَقْنَـهُ بِقَدَرٍ
(Verily, We have created all things with Qadar.) is similar to several other Ayat,
وَخَلَقَ كُلَّ شَىْءٍ فَقَدَّرَهُ تَقْدِيراً
"He has created everything, and has measured it exactly according to its due measurements." (25:2)
5. Balanced Approach: Islam teaches a balanced approach to the concept of Qadr. While Muslims believe in predestination, they are also encouraged to strive and exert effort in all endeavors. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught, "Tie your camel and trust in Allah." This hadith illustrates the importance of taking practical measures while also trusting in Allah's decree.
In conclusion, the concept of Qadr in Islam emphasizes the sovereignty of Allah, His knowledge, wisdom, and control over all things. Belief in Qadr provides Muslims with a sense of purpose, trust in divine justice, and resilience in facing life's challenges. It encourages humility, gratitude, and reliance on Allah in all aspects of life.