Taqdeer

By Mufti Shafiq Jakhura
Posted: 28 Muharram 1431, 14 January 2010


Q.My question is regarding taqdeer (fate): if Allah has written the taqdeer for every individual, then why does He punish accordingly, since it is He that has prescribed this . For example the u ncle of the Prophet Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, (Abu Talib) was not able to accept Islam as Allah did not appoint him with hidayat (guidance). If that was the way Allah had prescribed his life, then why should he be punished?

 


A. The subject of taqdeer is one that is very delicate and intricate. Delving too deep into this subject is discouraged and has caused many to go astray. However, in order to clarify your concern one should understand that Taqdeer does not refer to the command of Allah. Allah has not forced nor commanded any person to commit wrong. Rather it refers to the knowledge of Allah. Allah has blessed every person with the ability to choose between right and wrong. One does right or wrong of his/her own prerogative. Hence, if a person does evil or commits a sin, he does not do so because he was forced into it. Rather, he does so out of his own choice. Yes, Allah out of His infinite knowledge knew that this person would choose the wrong path.

Perhaps a simple example would assist in understanding this concept further. If a newspaper announces that the head of State is to travel to South Africa, and thereafter he does indeed travel, he does so out of his own choice and not because the newspaper had knowledge thereof or had announced his plans.

Nevertheless, my sincere advice is that you do not delve too deep into this subject and accept the concept as mentioned above. Remember, every person has a choice. No person is forced to do good or evil.

And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best

_________________________________________________