Introduction
The concepts of Qadar (قدر) and Taqdīr (تقدير) in Islamic theology refer to the Decrees of God, involving the divine preordination and premeasurement of every event in the universe. These terms encapsulate the belief that everything occurring, whether good or bad, is known and willed by Allah (SWT), thus epitomizing the doctrine of predestination.
Etymology
- Qadar: From the Arabic root ق د ر, meaning to measure, to determine, or to ordain.
- Taqdīr: From the same root, with a focus on the act of predetermining or measuring something beforehand.
Background
In Islamic thought, Qadar and Taqdīr form a crucial pillar of faith, representing one of the six articles of iman (faith). This belief asserts that all events, past, present, and future, are under Allah’s eternal knowledge and decree. The Qurʾān and Hadith literature are replete with references underscoring this precept.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islam:
- In Islam, Qadar and Taqdīr emphasize trust in Allah’s wisdom, manifesting in key practices such as dua (supplication) and tawakkul (reliance on Allah).
Christianity:
- Predestination in Christianity, particularly within Calvinist doctrine, can parallel Islamic views but also diverge, centering on the concepts of grace and divine election.
Synonyms:
- Divine Decree
- Predestination
- Fate
- Destiny
Antonyms:
- Free Will (though classical Islamic theology often discusses a harmony between Qadar and human free will)
- Chance
- Randomness
Related Terms:
- Iman: Faith or belief in Islam.
- Tawakkul: Reliance on God.
- Irada: Divine will.
Notable Quotes:
- “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.” (Qurʾān 57:22)
- “Actions are but by intention.” (Hadith by Prophet Muhammad, Sahih Bukhari and Muslim)
Exciting Facts:
- Night of Qadr: Laylatul Qadr (Night of Decree) during Ramadan is believed to be when the yearly Qadar is decreed.
- Free Will vs. Predestination Debate: The balance between Qadar and individual free will has been a significant theological discussion within Islam.
Suggested Literature:
- “Qadar: The Doctrine of Destiny in Islam” by Gibril Fouad Haddad
- “Predestination in Islam: The Classical Traditions” by Mehdi Aminrazavi
- “Islam: Faith, Practice, and History” by Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi
References:
- The Qurʾān, especially Surahs such as Al-Qamar, Al-Hadid, and Al-Takwir.
- Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim collections of Hadith.
Farewell
May this dive into the divine decrees of Qadar and Taqdīr inspire deeper understanding and reflection in your journey of faith and knowledge. Always seek wisdom, for in knowledge lies the essence of enlightenment.
Published on this enlightening day of October 3, 2023, by Ibrahim Al-Badawi, remember: “Trust in Allah’s decree brings peace to hearts.”
