self answers

Allah (I) the Creator of the seen and unseen worlds, is not in need of His creation; rather, His creation is in need of Him. Allah (I) says: (O mankind! It is you who stand in need of Allah, but Allah is Rich (Free of all wants and needs), worthy of all praise. * If He wills, He could destroy you and bring about a new creation. * And that is not hard for Allah.) [35:15-7] You alone would benefit from your belief and righteous deeds. Allah (I) says: (If you disbelieve (then that is for your own harm), (for) Allah is not in need of you. (But) He is not pleased with disbelief for His slaves. And if you are grateful (by being believers), He is pleased therewith for you.) [39:7]

Allah (I) says in Hadeeth Qudsi1:

‘Allah said: ‘O My slaves! I have forbidden dhulm (oppression) for Myself, and I have made it forbidden amongst you, so do not oppress one another. O My slaves, all of you are astray except those whom I have guided, so seek guidance from Me and I shall guide you. O My slaves, all of you are hungry except those whom I have fed, so seek food from Me and I shall feed you. O My slaves, all of you are naked except those whom I have clothed, so seek clothing from Me and I shall clothe you. O My slaves, you commit sins by day and by night, and I forgive all

1Hadeeth Qudsi: A hadeeth is a narration of the speech, actions, tacit approvals, and characteristics of the Prophet (r). A Hadeeth Qudsi is a hadeeth in which the Prophet (r) narrates from Allah in the first person ‘I’.

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sins, so seek forgiveness from Me and I shall forgive you. O My slaves, you will not attain harming Me so as to harm me, and you will not attain benefiting Me so as to benefit Me. O My slaves, if the first of you and the last of you, and the humans of you and the Jinn2 of you, were all as pious as the most pious heart of any individual amongst you, then this would not increase My Kingdom an iota. O My slaves, if the first of you and the last of you, and the humans of you and the Jinn of you, were all as wicked as the most wicked heart of any individual amongst you, then this would not decrease My Kingdom an iota. O My slaves, if the first of you and the last of you, and the humans of you and the Jinn of you, were all to stand together in one place and ask of Me, and I were to give everyone what he requested, then that would not decrease what I possess, except what is decreased of the Ocean when a needle is dipped into it. O My slaves, it is but your deeds that I account for you and then recompense you for. So he, who finds good, let him praise Allah, and he who finds other than that, let him blame no one but himself.’‛ [Muslim]

Islam is the Deen (i.e. way of life) which Allah has chosen, is pleased with and has legislated for His slaves. People are in dire need of its laws to organize the affairs of their private and public lives, their internal and external affairs. Besides the great importance paid in Islam to general principles and fundamentals, it has not neglected secondary issues. It also has

2 Jinn: A creation from the unseen having free will like the humans, made from a smokeless flame of fire.

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created equilibrium between physical and spiritual aspects of life. Allah (I) says: (This day, I have perfected your Deen for you, completed My Favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your Deen.) [5:3] When man implements Islam in his life, he would feel the pleasure of comfort, self-satisfaction, and spiritual ease. Allah (I) says: (And We have sent you (O Muhammad r) not but as a mercy for the ‘aalameen (all that exists).) [21:107] In the Hereafter, Allah would be pleased with him, and admit him in Jannah (Heavenly Abode) wherein he will live an everlasting life. Allah (I) says: (Verily! Those who believe (in Islam) and do righteous deeds shall have the Gardens of Firdaws (the highest level in Jannah) for their entertainment.) [18:107] Allah safeguards and protects Islam until the establishment of the Final Hour. Allah (I) says: (Indeed it is We Who have sent down the Dhikr (i.e. the Qur'an) and surely, it is We Who will guard it (from corruption).) [15:9] Regardless of the efforts of the enemies of Islam to distort the image of Islam, and falsely accuse it, Allah, will safeguard it. Allah (I) says: (Falsehood cannot come to it from before it or behind it: (it is) sent down by the All-Wise, worthy of all praise (Allah).) [41:42]

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In the end, Allah’s legislation, His Deen, and His army will be the successful. Allah (I) says: (Verily, those who oppose Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad r) will be disgraced, as those before them (among the past nations) were disgraced. And We have sent down clear aayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.). And for the disbelievers is a disgracing torment.) [58:5] Regardless of the efforts of the enemies to stop the spread of Islam, they will not be successful. Allah (I) says: (Verily, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to hinder (men) from the Path of Allah, and so will they continue to spend it; but in the end it will become an anguish for them. Then they will be overcome. And those who disbelieve will be gathered unto Hell.) [8:36] The Shari'ah of Allah will prevail, His command is everlasting and His Deen will remain. Allah (I) says: (They intend to extinguish the Light of Allah (the Deen of Islam) with their mouths. But Allah will complete His Light even though the disbelievers hate (it).) [61:8] Allah promised to grant victory to it and make it apparent. Allah (I) says: (He it is Who has sent His Messenger (Muhammad r) with guidance and the Deen of truth (Islam) that He may make it (Islam) superior over all religions. And All-Sufficient is Allah as a Witness.) [48:28] The Prophet (r) said:

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‚This Deen will reach every place which sees night and day. Allah will not leave a house made of mud nor (a tent of) camel hair except that Allah will make this Deen enter it, either by the might of the mighty or the humility of the meek: the mighty through whom Allah will give might and honor to the Deen of Islam, or the meek through whom Allah will humiliate disbelief.‛ [Ahmad, Ibn Hibbaan, Haakim] The Deen of Islam is spreading and people are accepting it in large numbers, even though Muslims are not conveying it as they should. The main reason behind this is that Islam is congruent with the natural disposition of man, and fulfills his desires, and secures his stability in all aspects; namely, the psychological, social, economical and political. Another reason is the inner-strength which Allah instills in His slaves to aid them. On the other hand, the enemies are mustering all their resources to wage war against this Deen, and to prevent people from accepting it, and to place obstacles in its path, and to scare people away from it by portraying Islam as a backward Deen which acknowledges terrorism. They do this because Islam would definitely bar them from achieving their goals, and it would also prevent them from exploiting their peoples, since Islam forbids oppression in all its forms, and it forbids enslaving people to other than Allah. This is a grave sin, especially when those wronged are the weak. Islam forbids societies, groups and individuals to belittle others. Allah (I) says:

(O mankind! We have created you from a single male and female, and We made you into different nations and tribes

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that you may come to know one another. Verily, the most honorable of you to Allah is that (believer) who has the most taqwaa3 (the most pious). Verily, Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware.) [49:13] I will use the Noble Qur'an in writing this book, since Allah has stated that man cannot discover the truth about the beginning of creation by himself. Allah (I) says: (I made them not to witness the creation of the heavens and the earth, nor their own creation, and I would not have taken those who misguide as assistants.) [18:51]

The other source I will use is the authentic Sunnah4. I will avoid correlating the facts mentioned in the Qur'an and the authentic Sunnah of the Messenger (r) with modern science, theories, and discoveries, for those theories which are regarded as true today may be falsified by other theories tomorrow. Many theories once held true in the past have now been proven incorrect due to the progress of modern science. And Allah always speaks the truth: (And of knowledge, you (mankind) have been given only a little.) [17:85]

3Taqwaa is that which causes a person to stay away from sins and perform deeds of righteousness purely for Allah’s sake. 4Sunnah: The ‘Way’ of the Prophet (r). It sometimes denotes the way he did something. Here it means the collection of the speech, deeds, and tacit approvals of the Prophet (r), also known as hadeeth.

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Belief in Allah

Belief in Allah, His existence, and His Oneness is the basis of Islamic Shari'ah. Belief in this pillar would cause one to believe in the other pillars of Imaan, which the Prophet (r) informed us about when Jibreel asked him: 'Tell me about Imaan?' He replied: ‚To believe in Allah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, the Last Day, and that you believe in Predestination, its good and evil consequences.‛ [Muslim]

Who is Allah?

Allah (I) says: (He is the First and the Last, the Most High and the Most Near. And He is the All-Knower of every thing.) [17:3] Allah (I) also says:

(He is Allah, beside Whom none has the right to be worshipped but He, the All-Knower of the unseen5 and the seen. He is the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. He is Allah beside Whom none has the right to be worshipped but He, the King, the Holy, the One Free from all defects, the Giver of security, the Watcher over His creatures, the All-Mighty, the Compeller, the Supreme. Far removed is Allah (from every imperfection) above all that they associate as partners with Him. He is Allah, the

5That which is absent, invisible, or beyond the perception of the senses or of the mind and therefore is unknown to man, except for what Allah chooses to reveal.

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Creator, the Shaper out of naught, the Fashioner. To Him belong the Best Names. All that is in the heavens and the earth glorify Him. And He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.) [59:22-4] Allah (I) also says: (Allah! None has the right to be worshipped but He, the Ever-Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists. Neither slumber, nor sleep overtakes Him. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on earth. Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His Permission? He knows what happens to them (His creatures) in this world, and what will happen to them in the Hereafter. And they will never compass anything of His Knowledge except that which He wills. His Chair extends over the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.) [2:255] In Islam, Allah is known; for the Deen explains who Allah is, and informs us of His beautiful attributes, and how we can ask and seek nearness to Him. Among Allah's attributes are the following: 1) Allah exists. The universe and all that is within are proofs of His existence. Allah (I) says: (Say: ‘Look into all that is in the heavens and the earth,’ but neither aayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) nor warners benefit those who believe not.) [10:101]

2) Allah is One; He has no partner who shares His domain. He has no wife or child and all creation depends upon Him.

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He has no partner, rival or equal, all things are in need of Him, while He stands in need of none of His creatures. He was not begotten, nor does He beget. Allah (I) says: (Say: ‘He is Allah, (the) One. * Allah is the Samad [The Self-Sufficient Master, Whom all creatures need, without Him needing them]. * He begets not, nor was He begotten * and there is none co-equal or comparable unto Him.) [112:1-4] 3) Allah is All-Knowing and His knowledge encompasses everything. Allah (I) says: (Whatever you may be doing, and whatever you may be reciting from the Qur'an, – and whatever deed you may be doing (good or evil) We are Witness thereof when you are doing it. And nothing is hidden from your Rubb (so much as) the weight of an atom (or small ant) on the earth or in the heaven. Not what is less than that or what is greater than that but is (written) in a Clear Record.) [10:61] 4) Allah is Ever-Living, and He never dies. Allah (I) says: (He is the Ever-Living, Laa ilaaha illa Huwa [none has the right to be worshipped but He], so invoke Him making your worship pure for Him Alone. All praises are due to Allah, the Rubb of the ‘aalameen [mankind, jinn and all that exists].) [40:65] 5) Allah is All-Just. He is not a tyrant; He does not oppress, nor is injustice feared from Him. Allah (I) says:

(And We shall set up the balances of justice on the Day of Resurrection, then none will be dealt with unjustly in anything. And if there be the weight of a mustard seed,

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We will bring it. And Sufficient are We as Reckoners.) [21:47] 6) Allah is Unique. Nothing resembles Him, nor can anything be compared to Him regarding His attributes or actions. To Him belongs complete perfection in every aspect. Whatever He wills would come to pass; and what he does not would never be. Allah (I) says: (Allah - None has the right to be worshipped but He! To Him belong the Most Beautiful of Names.) [20:8] Allah (I) says: (The Creator of the heavens and the earth; He has made for you mates from yourselves, and for the cattle (also, He has made) mates. By this means He creates you (in the wombs). There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer.) [42:11] Allah (I) has many Names and Attributes which are indicative of His perfection and magnificence. If one wishes, he may refer to books which detail them. One should know though that Allah’s Names are not limited. The Prophet (r) said: ‚No slave says upon feeling stress or sadness: ‘Allahumma innee ‘abduk, ibnu ‘abdik, ibnu amatik, nasiyatee biyadik, madin fiyya hukmuk, ‘adlun fiyya qada`uk, as`aluka bikull-ismin huwa lak, sammayta bihi nafsak, aw anzaltahu fee kitabik, aw ‘allamtahu ahadan min khalqik aw ista´tharta bihi fee ‘ilm il-ghaybi ‘indak, an taj‘al al-Qur`ana rabee‘a qalbee, wa noora sadree, wajalaa`a huznee wa dhahaaba hammee.’

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Meaning: O Allah, I am Your slave, son of Your slave, son of Your female slave, my forelock is in Your Hand (i.e. You have total mastery over me) Your command over me is forever executed and Your decree over me is just. I ask You by every name belonging to You which You named Yourself with, or revealed in Your Book, or You taught to any of Your creation, or You have preserved in the knowledge of the unseen with You, that You make the Qur'an the life of my heart and the light of my breast, and a departure for my sorrow and a release for my anxiety…’

[Ahmed, Saheeh ibn Hibbaan]6 Allah has Names and Attributes which are not like unto His creation. Allah exists, and His existence is unlike that of His creatures. He hears and nothing is like unto Him in this attribute. He sees, and nothing is like unto Him in this attribute. This general rule applies to all His Names and Attributes. Allah (I) is as He described Himself: (And they will never encompass anything of His Knowledge.) [20:110] Man cannot comprehend the magnificence of Allah. Allah, the Exalted, says: (No vision can grasp Him, but His grasp is over all vision. He is the Most Subtle and Courteous, Well Acquainted with all things.) [6:103]

6Authenticated as Saheeh by Sheikh Al-Albaani (may Allah have mercy on him).

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Due to the fact that humans have been created with the innate nature to inquire and find out the truth about various matters…pondering about Allah and His presence would not negate Imaan; rather, it would be a sign of one's belief. Abu Hurairah (t) said:

‚Some companions of the Prophet (r) asked him: ‘Sometimes we think about things which we feel are too awful to speak about.’ He replied: ‘Do you find this?’ They replied in the affirmative. He said, ‘That is an explicit sign7 of true belief.’ ‛ [Muslim] These thoughts emanate from the whisperings of Shaytaan (Satan) who tries in every possible way to misguide people from the Deen of Allah, as he swore to do. Allah (r) mentions in the Qur'an that the Shaytaan said: ((Iblees [Satan]) said: ‘Do you not see? This one whom You have honored above me, if You give me respite to the Day of Resurrection, I will surely seize and mislead his offspring (by sending them astray) all but a few!) [17:62] These whisperings and insinuations are from the Shaytaan, as the Messenger of Allah (r) explained. Ibn ‘Abbaas (t) said:

‚A man came to the Prophet (r) and said, ‘O Messenger of Allah, sometimes I think about something that I prefer more that I be hurled from the sky than to speak about it.’

7‚What is meant by ‘explicit sign of true belief’ is the fact that they felt it too awful to speak about, and that their belief stopped them from accepting these thoughts and speaking about it. As far as the thoughts themselves, they are not from belief, but rather from the Shaytaan.‛

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He (r) replied, ‘Allah is the Greatest! Allah is the Greatest! All Praise be to Allah Who granted you the knowledge to understand that these thoughts are the plots and evil whisperings from the Shaytaan.’‛ [Ahmed] If Shaytaan prompts you to ask questions about things which human intellect cannot comprehend then do what the Prophet (r) said: ‚People will continue to question things until they ask, ‘Allah created the creation, so who created Allah?’ Whoever finds himself at this point, let him say, ‘I believe in Allah.’‛ [Muslim]The Messenger of Allah (r) explained how to remove these thoughts saying: ‚Shaytaan comes to one of you and says, ‘Who created this? Who created that?’ until he says, ‘Who created your Creator?’ If one reaches this point, then let him seek refuge in Allah from the Shaytaan and stop.‛ [Bukhari] Allah always speaks the truth. He (I) says:(And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaytaan [Satan] then seek refuge with Allah. Verily, He is All-Hearer, All-Knower.) [7:200]

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Proofs of the Existence of Allah

Everything in this universe is a definite proof of the existence of a Creator [Allah] who created it. Those who have sound intellect and natural disposition will understand this fully. Those who reject the existence of Allah do so because they seek tangible proofs which they can perceive through their senses. They contradict themselves, for they believe in intangible things within this universe by observing their signs and effects. For example, they believe in gravity without being able to see it; they perceive it only through its effects, since objects are drawn towards the earth. They believe in magnetism without being able to see it; they perceive it through its effects, since metallic objects are attracted to each other. They believe that they have intellects while they cannot see their intellects! They believe in all these things (while depending on their senses) even though their senses may give them a false perception about things, which is well-known. For example, a stick placed in water seems bent, and two parallel lines at a distance seem to intersect; also, our head always seems to be upright, whether we are at the North Pole, the South Pole, or at the Equator. These examples prove that without intellect, one may be given a false perception if he depends solely on his senses.

Without intellect, we would have no knowledge. So those who limit attaining knowledge to what is perceived through the senses have indeed erred! Is it logical to reject the belief in Allah, because Allah cannot be perceived through one's senses? Even though they believe in all that surrounds them through their effects and signs! Seeking tangible evidences for

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the belief in the existence of Allah has distanced many from believing in Allah by pondering His signs. Allah (I) says:(And Fir‘awn [Pharaoh] said: ‘O Haamaan! Build me a tower that I may reach the paths. The paths which reach the heavens, so that I may look upon the god of Musa, but verily, I think him to be a liar.’ Thus it was made fair-seeming in Fir‘awn’s eyes the evil of his deeds, and he was hindered from the (Right) Path, and the plot of Fir‘awn led to nothing but loss and destruction (for him).) [40:36-7] This call is not restricted to a certain time or era; rather, it is the nature of the calls of those who reject and belie the truth due to their ignorance, as Allah says: (And those who have no knowledge say: ‘Why does not Allah speak to us (face to face) or why does not a sign come to us?’ So had the people before them said words of similar import. Their hearts are alike; We have indeed made plain the signs for people who believe with certainty.) [2:118] Or due to pride, as Allah (I) says:

(And those who expect not for a Meeting with Us [i.e. those who deny the Day of Resurrection and the life of the Hereafter] say: ‘Why are not the angels sent down to us, or why do we not see our Rubb?’ Indeed they think too highly of themselves, and are scornful with great pride. * On the Day they will see the angels, no glad tidings will there be for the mujrimoon [criminals, disbelievers, polytheists, sinners, etc.] that day. And they [the angels]

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will say: ‘All kinds of glad tidings are forbidden for you.) [25:21] Or due to injustice, as did the Jews; Allah (I) says: (And (remember) when you said: ‘O Musa! We shall never believe in you till we see Allah plainly.’ But you were seized with a thunderbolt (of lightning) while you were looking.) [2:55] The Proofs of the Existence of Allah

* The result of pure and unadulterated human nature. Indeed a person who has pure nature and clear understanding would know certainly that nothing exists without something bringing it into existence, and nothing happens without a specific reason. For example, if you enter a room and see a table, your mind will come to the conclusion that this table did not come into the room by itself; rather, someone brought it in. The Bedouin who lives in the desert would understand this through his unadulterated natural disposition. If he is asked how he came to know his Rubb, he would respond, ‚the dung of a camel indicates the presence of a camel, the dung of a donkey indicates the presence of a donkey, and footprints indicate that someone tread this path. A dark night, a bright day, the sky with its great stars, the earth with its deep valleys, the ocean with its great waves; are these all not but indications of the existence of Allah – the All-Aware, and Well-Acquainted with all things?‛

* The verses of the Qur'an. There are many verses which encourage people to ponder about this universe which surrounds them and to think about the different creations

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found within them. All these are proofs of a Creator who takes care of its affairs. Allah (I) says:

(Say: ‘Look into all that is in the heavens and the earth,’ but neither aayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) nor warners benefit those who believe not.) [10:101] The following are a few examples which prove the existence of the Creator: * The perfection with which the universe is created, and beauty of the planets which swiftly travel in their specific orbits, as well as other celestial bodies; if these were offset from their orbit even slightly, it would result in a catastrophe which only Allah knows. Since the beginning of their creation, they continue to move according to a precise system. Allah (I) says: (He has created the heavens without any pillars that you see and has set on the earth firm mountains, lest it should shake with you.) [31:10] Allah (I) also says:

(So exalted is Allah when you reach the evening and when you reach the morning. * And to Him is (due all) praise throughout the heavens and the earth. And [exalted is He] at night and when you are at noon. * He brings the living out of the dead and brings the dead out of the living and brings to life the earth after its lifelessness. And thus will you be brought out. * And of His signs is that He created you from dust; then, suddenly you are human beings dispersing (throughout the earth). * And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you

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may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought. * And of His signs are the creation of the heavens and the earth and the diversity of your languages and your colors. Indeed in that are signs for those of knowledge. * And of His signs are your sleep by night and day and your seeking of His bounty. Indeed in that are signs for a people who listen. * And of His signs is (that) He shows you the lightening (causing) fear and aspiration, and He sends down rain from the sky by which He brings to life the earth after its lifelessness. Indeed in that are signs for a people who use reason. * And of His signs is that the heaven and earth stand [i.e. remain] by His command. Then when He calls you with a (single) call from the earth, immediately you will come forth. * And to Him belongs whoever is in the heavens and the earth. All are to Him devoutly obedient. * And it is He who begins creation; then He repeats it, and that is (even) easier for Him8. To Him belongs the highest description [i.e., attribute] in the heavens and earth. And He is the Exalted in Might, the Wise.) [30:17-27] Allah (I) also says: ((all) subjected by His command. Unquestionably, His is the creation and the command; blessed is Allah, Rubb of the worlds.) [7:54]

8This is in regards to humans, for repeating something is easier than doing it the first time. As far as Allah is concerned, they are both the same, they are both easy.

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* The wondrous creation of mankind and the beautiful form they are created in, and the ability which Allah has endowed them. Allah (I) says:

(And on the earth are signs for the certain (in faith). * And in your own selves. Then will you not see?) [51:20-1]

* The animals and the different ways humans benefit from them, in the form of food, drink, clothing, and as means of transportation. Allah (I) says:

(And indeed, for you in grazing livestock is a lesson. We give you drink from what is in their bellies – between undigested food and blood – pure milk, palatable to drinkers. * And from the fruits of the palm trees and grapevines you take intoxicant and good provision.9 Indeed in that is a sign for a people who reason. * And your Rubb inspired to the bee, ‘Take for yourself among the mountains, houses [i.e., hives], and among the trees and [in] that which they construct. * Then eat from all the fruits and follow the ways of your Rubb laid down (for you).’ There emerges from their bellies a drink, varying in colors, in which there is healing for people. Indeed in that is a sign for a people who give thought.) [16:66-9]

* The plants, trees, and crops in their various shapes, and colors from which man benefits in the form of food, drink, shelter, and medicine. Allah (I) says:

9This verse was revealed before the prohibition of intoxicants. It alludes to the fact that there are both evil and good possibilities in certain things.

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(And it is He who spread the earth and placed therein firmly set mountains and rivers; and from all of the fruits He made two mates; He causes the night to cover the day. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought. * And within the land are neighboring plots and gardens of grapevines and crops and palm trees, (growing) several from a root or otherwise,10 watered with one water, but We make some of them exceed others in [quality of] fruit. Indeed in that are signs for a people who reason.) [13:34]

* The different creatures which traverse the earth in their various shapes, forms, and unique qualities. Allah (I) says:

(Allah has created every (living) creature from water. And of them are those that move on their bellies and of them are those that walk on two legs, and of them are those that walk on four. Allah creates what He wills. Indeed, Allah is over all things competent.) [24:25]

* The astonishing organization and cohesion present between all constituents of the creation. This cohesion and intricate balance guarantees the continuation of life of the creation. Allah (I) says:

(He created the heavens without pillars that you see and has cast into the earth firmly set mountains, lest it should shift with you, and dispersed therein from every creature. And We sent down rain from the sky and made grow therein (plants) of every noble kind. * This is the creation of Allah. So show Me what those other than Him have created. Rather, the wrongdoers are in clear error.) [31:10-1]

10i.e., only one from a root.

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* The wondrous way provisions are distributed and provided to all creatures. Allah (I) says:

(And there is no creature on earth but that upon Allah is its provision, and He knows its place of dwelling and place of storage11. All is in a clear book.12) [6:103] Allah (I) also says: (And how many a creature carries not its (own) provision. Allah provides for it and for you. And He is the Hearing, the Knowing.) [29:60] Allah, the Exalted, has informed us that all creatures within the universe have been created in pairs; (for example) the sky and earth, night and day, death and life, happiness and misery, the sun and the moon, the moving and motionless, hot and cold, good and evil, disbelief and belief. This is present in the animal world and in plants as well; and among things we have knowledge of and things we do not. Allah (I) says: (And of all things We created two mates; perhaps you will remember.) [51:49] Pondering these creatures would increase and deepen one's belief in Allah, and this is a trait of the intellectual people of understanding. Allah (I) says:

(Do you not see that Allah sends down rain from the sky, and We produce thereby fruits of varying colors? And in

11Before birth(in the uterus) and after death (in the grave). 12Al-Lawh-ul-Mahfoodh, the Preserved Tablet in which everything that comes into existence is written 50,000 years before the creation until the Day of Resurrection.

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the mountains are tracts, white and red of varying shades and (some) extremely black. And among people and moving creatures are grazing livestock are various colors similarly. Only those fear Allah, from among His slaves who have knowledge. Indeed, Allah is Exalted in Might and Forgiving.) [35:27-8] Allah (I) has informed us about some of the creatures in this universe, while not informing us of others. Allah (I) says: (Exalted is He who created all pairs [or ‘all species’] – from what the earth grows, and from themselves, and from that which they do not know.) [36:36] There is no doubt that there is a force which brought about this universe, and protects it. This force can only be one of the following: 1) That the universe came into existence by itself. This is absurd and false, for everything which is present must have been brought into existence by something. 2) That this universe came into existence by something; whether it is from the universe or not (such as evolution). This argument is illogical, and sound intellect cannot accept it, for a thing cannot create something like itself. 3) That this universe was created by an outside power, apart and distinct from it; Allah, the Creator, created this universe. This is what the Muslims believe. As for the atheists, they waver in doubt. Allah (I) says: (Were they created by nothing, or were they the creators (of themselves)? * Or did they create the heavens and the earth? Rather, they are not certain.) [52:35-6]

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* It is from the innate human nature that humans feel and acknowledge the presence of a Creator Who created them as well as the universe they live in. This is what the scientists call ‚Religious Instinct.‛ Allah (I) says:

(So direct your face [i.e., self] toward the Deen, inclining to truth. (Adhere to) the fitrah13 of Allah upon which He has created (all) people. No change should there be in the creation of Allah.14 That is the correct Deen, but most of the people do not know.) [30:30] The Prophet (r) said: ‚Every child is born on the Fitrah [Natural Disposition]; But his parents, turn him into a Jew or a Christian. Just as you see the cattle-beast; Do you see it born with amputated limbs before you amputate them?‛ They said, ‚O Messenger of Allah, do you see those who die while they are young?‛ He said, ‚Allah knows best about what they would have done.‛ [Bukhari]

Even if a man's natural disposition is deviated, he still tends to look up to a power to dispose his affairs, and upon Whom he can turn to in times of need, as was the case in previous nations; they would take idols as gods and worship them. They would also worship the sun, moon and stars. This is a

13Fitrah: The natural inborn inclination of man to worship his Creator prior to the corruption of his nature by external influences. Thus, Islamic monotheism is described as the religion of fitrah—that of the inherent nature of mankind. 14i.e., let people remain true to their fitrah within the religion of Islam.

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common instinct among humans; although some reject it out of pride or stubbornness, and others believe in it. This innate nature becomes apparent when man is in a dire situation…if a person falls sick, or is overcome by an evil, he would involuntarily call out and say: 'O Allah!' or he would look towards the sky, in acknowledgment of an almighty force, who can resolve his problems. Allah says: (And when affliction touches man, he calls upon Us, whether lying on his side or sitting or standing; but when We remove from him his affliction, he continues (in disobedience) as if he had never called upon Us to (remove) an affliction that touched him.) [10:12]

* The challenge of the Qur'an: The Qur'an challenges the whole creation to create anything which has a soul, whether they do so collectively or individually. Allah (I) says:

(O people, an example is presented, so listen to it. Indeed, those you invoke besides Allah will never create (as much as) a fly, even if they gathered together for it [i.e., that purpose]. And if the fly should steal away from them a (tiny) thing, they could not recover it from him. Weak are the pursuer and pursued15.) [22:73] This is because the soul is from the affairs of Allah. No one knows its reality except Him. Allah (I) says:

(And they ask you, (O Muhammad (r)), about the soul. Say, ‘The soul is of the affair [i.e., concern] of my Rubb.

15A comparison is made here to the worshipper of a false deity and that which he worships.

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And you [i.e., mankind] have not been given of knowledge except a little.) [17:85] The creation cannot create something without a soul. In a Hadeeth Qudsi, the Prophet (r) narrated that Allah (I) says: ‚And who is more unjust than one who tries to create something like My creation. Let them try to create the smallest ant, let them try to create a seed, let them try to create a fiber of barley.‛ [Bukhari]

* The inability of humans to do as they please in this universe. This is another evidence of the presence of the Creator who created and continues to dispose of its affairs. Allah (I) says:

(Have you not considered the one who argued with Abraham about his Rubb (merely) because Allah had given him kingship? When Abraham said, ‘My Rubb is the one who gives life and causes death,’ he said, ‘I give life and cause death16.’ Abraham said, ‘Indeed, Allah brings up the sun from the east, so bring it up from the west.’ So the disbeliever was overwhelmed (by astonishment), and Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.) [2:258]

* Another proof of His (I) existence is His challenge to all humanity: to bring something like the Noble Qur'an, the final Book revealed to mankind. This challenge will remain unmet until the Day of Requital. Allah (I) says:

16 Qataadah and others reported: ‚That two men are brought to me who deserve to be sentenced to death. So I order that one of them be killed and I pardon the other.. so he is not killed.‛ [ibn Katheer]

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(Say, ‘If mankind and the jinn gathered in order to produce the like of this Qur'an, they could not produce its like, even if they were to each other assistants.) [17:88] Whoever doubts the existence of Allah or the prophet-hood of Muhammad (r) let him produce something similar to the Qur'an. The Arabs, who were the most eloquent at that time, tried their best to produce something similar to the Qur'an, and they could not; even though it was revealed in their native tongue (Arabic). Allah then eased this challenge, saying: (Or do they say, ‘He invented it?’ Say, ‘Then bring ten Suwar [chapters] like it that have been invented and call upon (for assistance) whomever you can besides Allah, if you should be truthful.) [11:13] Allah (I) then eased it even further, saying: (And if you are in doubt about what We have sent down [i.e., the Qur'an] upon Our Slave [i.e., Prophet Muhammad (r)], then (try to) produce (even) one Surah the like thereof and call upon your witnesses [i.e., supporters] other than Allah, if you should be truthful.) [2:23] This Qur'an is the revealed Words of Allah, and it can never be disproved. Allah (I) says:

(And it is not (possible) for this Qur'an to be produced by other that Allah, but (it is) a confirmation of what was before it and a detailed explanation of the (former) Scriptures, about which there is no doubt17, from the Rubb of the all that exists.) [10:37]

17This phrase refers back to the Qur'an.

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If it was conjured by humans, it would contain many contradictions. Allah (I) says: (Then do they not reflect upon the Qur'an? If it had been from (any) other than Allah, they would have found much contradiction in it.) [6:103] Our basis for the discussion about the beginning of creation and its end will be the saying of Allah (I): (Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is, over all things, Disposer of affairs. * To Him belong the keys of the heavens and the earth.) [39:62-63]

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The First Creation of the Tangible World

Since man's knowledge and understanding is limited to the tangible world he lives, there is no need for him to comprehend the unseen world; except in matters that would lead him to knowing the greatness of his Creator, and bring him closer to His pleasure and Jannah. For this reason, Allah, the Exalted, sent Messengers to mankind continuously and He gave them knowledge of the unseen world in matters through which the goodness of man would be attained. If human intellect is unable to realize what occurs in a place that is segregated from him by a wall, then by right, it would not be able to comprehend the unseen world. Allah (I) says:

((And) who created seven heavens in layers.18 You do not see in the creation of the Most Merciful any inconsistency. So return (your) vision (to the sky); do you see any breaks? * Then return (your) vision twice again.19 (Your) vision will return to you humbled while it is fatigued.) [67:3-4]

The Creation of the Heavens, Earth and What is in Between

Allah (r) says:

(And it is He who created the heavens and earth in truth. And the day [i.e., whenever] He says, ‘Be,’ and it is, His

18i.e., one covering or fitting over the other. 19i.e., repeatedly.

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word is the truth.20 And His is the dominion (on) the Day the Horn is blown. (He is the) Knower of the Unseen and the witnessed21 and He is the Wise, the Acquainted.) [6:73] The following are examples of some of the creations found within the heavens and earth: Allah (I) says: (And We made the sky a protected ceiling, but they turn away from its [the sky’s] signs. * And it is He who created the night and the day and the sun and the moon; all (heavenly bodies) are swimming in an orbit.) [21:32] Allah (I) says:

(Are you a more difficult creation or is the heaven? * He [i.e., Allah] constructed it. * He raised its ceiling and proportioned it. * And He darkened its night and extracted its brightness.22 * And after that He spread the earth. * He extracted from it its water and its pasture. * And the mountains He set firmly. * As enjoyment [i.e., provision] for you and your grazing livestock.) [79:27-33]

Allah (I) says:

20 When interpreted as the ‚Day‛ (of Resurrection), the sentence would read: ‚And the Day He says, ‘Be,’ and it is, His word will be the truth.‛ 21 What is present, visible and known to man. The knowledge of Allah (I) includes the reality of all things and all occurrences, no matter how they might appear to human beings. 22i.e., created the day from within the surrounding darkness.

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(And We have sent the fertilizing winds23, and sent down water from the sky and given you drink from it. and it is not you who are the owners of its stores [i.e. to give water to whom you like or to withhold it from whom you like].) [15:22] There are different types of winds; some are a mercy from Allah (I). Allah (I) says: (And it is He who sends the winds as good tidings before His mercy [i.e. rainfall] until, when they have carried heavy rain clouds, We drive them to a dead land and We send down rain therein and bring forth thereby (some) of all the fruits. Thus will We bring the dead; perhaps you may be reminded.) [7:57] While others are a punishment. Allah (I) says: (Or do you feel secure that He will not send you back into it [i.e., the sea] another time and send upon you a hurricane of wind and drown you for what you denied [disbelieved]? Then you would not find for yourselves against Us an avenger (or someone to demand restitution).) [17:69] And He (I) says: () [2:266] And He (I) says: (So We sent upon them furious wind in days of evil omen (for them).) [41:16]

23Winds causing precipitation in rain clouds or carrying pollen.

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Allah created seven heavens and seven earths. Allah (I) says: (It is Allah who has created seven heavens and of the earth, the like of them [i.e., a similar number: seven]. (His) command descends among them so you may know that Allah is over all things competent and that Allah has encompassed all things in knowledge.) [65:12] In the beginning of creation, the heavens and earth were joined together. Allah (I) says: (Have those who disbelieved not considered that the heavens and the earth were a joined entity, and We separated them and made from water every living thing? Then will they not believe?) [20:30] Allah (I) has informed us when the heavens, the earth, and all that is in between was created. He (I) says:

(Say, ‘Do you indeed disbelieve in He who created the earth in two days and attribute to Him equals? That is the Rubb of all that exists.’ And He placed on it [i.e., the earth] firmly set mountains over its surface, and He blessed it and determined therein its (creatures) sustenance in four days without distinction24 – for (the information) of those who ask. Then He rose to the heaven while it was smoke and said to it and to the earth, ‘Come willingly or unwillingly.’ They said, ‘We have come willingly’ And He completed them as seven heavens within two days and inspired [i.e., made known] in each heaven its command. And We adorned the nearest heaven with lamps [i.e., stars,

24Also ‚four equal days‛ or ‚four days of completion‛.

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for beauty] and as protection.25 That is the determination of the Exalted in Might, the Knowing.) [41:9-12]

25A protection from the devils who attempt to steal information from the angels.

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The Creation of the Angels

The Angels are a creation of Allah which He created from light. The Messenger of Allah (r) said: ‚The angels were created from light, the Jinn were created from a smokeless flame of fire, and Adam was created from what was described to you [in the Qur`an: black dry clay].‛ [Muslim] Allah (I) created them to do certain tasks; which they execute. Allah (I) says: ((The angels say), ‘There is not among us any except that he has an assigned task. * And indeed, we are those who line up (for prayer). * And indeed, we are those who exalt Allah.’) [37:164-6] Allah has informed us of some of their names, such as Jibreel (Gabriel), Mikaa`eel (Michael), and Israafeel (Rafael). Allah (I) says: (Whoever is an enemy to Allah and His Angels and His Messengers and Jibreel and Mikaa`eel – then indeed, Allah is an enemy to the disbelievers.) [2:96] Jibreel (u) is the angel who descends with the revelation upon the messengers, who convey it to their nations. Allah (I) says: (The Trustworthy Spirit [i.e., Jibreel] has brought it down. * Upon your heart, (O Muhammad (r)), that you may be of the warners.) [26:194]

Meekaa`eel (u) is assigned with the task of distributing rain and vegetation, while Israafeel has been assigned the task of

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blowing the trumpet. He will blow it for the first time, and all would be struck with terror. Allah (I) says: (And (mention) the Day the Horn will be blown, and whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth will be terrified except whom Allah wills.) [27:87] Thereafter, he would blow the trumpet two more times on the Day of Requital; the second with which all would die, and the third with which all would be resurrected and brought back to life. Allah (I) says: (And the Horn will be blown, and whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth will fall dead except whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown again, and at once they will be standing, looking on.) [39:68] Among the angels is the Angel of Death and his helpers. Allah (I) says: (And He is the subjugator over His slaves, and He sends over you guardian-angels until, when death comes to one of you, Our messengers [i.e., angels of death] take him, and they do not fail (in their duties). * Then they [i.e., His slaves] are returned to Allah, their true Rubb. Unquestionably, His is the judgment, and He is the swiftest of accountants.) [6:61-2] Among them are those who bear the Throne of Allah and those who are also close to Him. Allah (I) says: (Never would the Messiah disdain to be a slave of Allah, nor would the angels near (to Him). And whoever disdains His worship and is arrogant – He will gather them to Himself all together.) [4:172]

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Some have been assigned tasks in Jannah, while others have been assigned tasks in Hellfire. Allah (I) says: (O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire, whose fuel is people and stones, over which are (appointed) angels, harsh and severe; they do not disobey Allah in what He commands them but do what they are commanded.) [66:6]Among them are those who have been assigned the task to protect humans. Allah (I) says: (For each (person) there are angels in succession, before and behind him. They guard him by the Command of Allah. Verily!) [13:11]Some of them record man's deeds. Allah (I) says: (And indeed, (appointed) over you are keepers [Angels who preserve the deeds of men in records], * Noble and recording; * They know whatever you do.) [82:10-2]Allah created Angels to worship Him. He (I) says: (To Him belongs whoever is in the heavens and the earth. And those near Him [i.e., the angels] are not prevented by arrogance from His worship, nor do they tire. * They exalt (Him) night and day (and) do not slacken.) [21:19-20] No one knows their exact number except Allah. Allah (I) says: (And none knows the soldiers of your Rubb except Him.) [74:31]

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Whoever desires to learn more on this subject may read books (which are based on the Qur'an and authentic Sunnah) which talk about the angels and their duties.

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The Creation of the Jinn

Jinn are an unseen creation of Allah who were created to worship Him. Allah (I) says: (And I [Allah] created not the jinn and humans except they should worship Me (Alone). * I seek not any provision from them [i.e. provision for themselves or for My creatures] nor do I ask that they should feed Me [i.e. feed themselves or My creatures]. * Verily, Allah is the All-Provider, Owner of Power, the Most Strong.) [51:56-8] They are charged with the legislations of the Deen that man is charged with. Allah (I) says: (And (mention, O Muhammad), when We directed to you a few of the jinn, listening to the Qur'an. And when they attended it, they said, ‘Listen quietly.’ And when it was concluded, they went back to their people as warners. * They said, ‘O our people, indeed we have heard a [recited] Book revealed after Moses confirming what was before it which guides to the truth and to a straight path.’) [46:29-30] Allah created them from fire. He (I) says: (He created man from clay like (that of) pottery. * And He created the jinn from a smokeless flame of fire.) [55:14-5] Allah (I) also says: (And indeed, We created man from sounding clay of altered black smooth mud. * And the jinn, We created aforetime from the smokeless flame of fire.) [15:26-7]

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The Creation of Adam

(u)Adam is the father of humanity. Allah (I) says:

(And (mention, O Muhammad), when your Rubb said to the angels. ‘Indeed, I will make upon the earth a successive authority.’ They said, ‘Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?’ He [Allah] said, ‘Indeed, I know that which you do not know.’ * And He taught Adam the names – all of them. Then He showed them to the angels and said, ‘Inform Me of the names of these, if you are truthful.’ * They said, ‘Exalted are You; we have no knowledge except what You have taught us. Indeed, it is You who is the Knowing, the Wise.’ * He said, ‘O Adam, inform them of their names.’ And when he had informed them of their names, He said, ‘Did I not tell you that I know the unseen (aspects) of the heavens and the earth? And I know what you reveal and what you have concealed.’ * And (mention) when We said to the angels, ‘Prostrate before Adam’; so they prostrated, except for Iblees.26 He refused and was arrogant and became of the disbelievers. * And We said, ‘O Adam, dwell, you and your wife, in Jannah and eat wherefrom in (ease and) abundance from wherever you will. But do not approach this tree, lest you be among the wrongdoers.’ * But Satan caused them to slip out of it and removed them from that

26 The proper name of Satan, who was not an angel but from the jinn. Done in obedience to Allah, this prostration was one of respect, not worship.

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(condition) in which they had been. And We said, ‘Go down (all of you) as enemies to one another, and you will have upon the earth a place of settlement and provision for a time.’ * Then Adam received from his Rubb words (of repentance), and He accepted his repentance. Indeed, it is He who is the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful. * We said, ‘Go down from it, all of you. And when guidance comes to you from Me, whoever follows My guidance – there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve. * And those who disbelieve and deny Our signs – those will be companions of the Fire; they will abide therein eternally.’) [2:30-39] Humans are from the progeny of Adam. Allah (I) says: (O mankind, fear your Rubb, who created you from one soul.) [4:1] The Prophet (r) said regarding this: ‚O people, your Rubb is One, and indeed your father is one. All of you were created from Adam, and Adam was created from dust. There is no excellence of an Arab over a non-Arab, a non-Arab over an Arab, a red person over a white, nor a white person over a red, except in righteousness and piety.‛ [Ahmed]

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How Adam (u) was Created

Allah (I) has clarified that Adam was created from earth; as is exemplified in different ways. In the following ayah, Allah (I) says that Adam was created from dust: (Indeed, the example of Jesus to Allah is like that of Adam. He created him from dust; then He said to him, ‘Be,’ and he was.) [3:59] In this ayah Allah (I) says that he was created from clay: (He it is Who has created you from clay, and then has decreed a stated term (for you to die). And there is with Him another determined term (for you to be resurrected), yet you doubt (in the Resurrection).) [6:2] Here Allah (I) says that he was created from sticky clay: (< ‘Are they stronger as creation, or those [others like the heavens and the earth and the mountains, etc.] whom We have created?’ Verily, We created them of a sticky clay.) [37:11] Allah (I) says that He created him from clay like that of pottery: (He created man from clay like (that of) pottery.) [55:14] He (I) that He created him from sounding clay of altered black smooth mud: (And indeed, We created man from sounding clay of altered black smooth mud.) [15:26] In any case, Adam was created from one substance.

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Allah (I) created Adam from clay, and he passed through different stages. He stayed like this, for as long as Allah willed; thereafter Allah breathed into him the soul which He created for him. Allah (I) says: (And (remember) when your Rubb said to the angels: ‘I am going to create a man [Adam] from sounding clay of altered black smooth mud. So, when I have fashioned him completely and breathed into him [Adam] the soul which I created for him, then fall (you) down prostrating yourselves unto him.’ So, the angels prostrated themselves, all of them together. Except Iblees [Satan] - he refused to be among those who prostrated.) [15:28-31] Mankind thereafter procreated from a weak water-like substance (sperm). Allah (I) says: (Who made everything He has created good, and He began the creation of man from clay. * Then He made his offspring from semen of worthless water [male and female sexual discharge]. * Then He fashioned him in due proportion, and breathed into him the soul (created by Allah for him), and He gave you hearing [ears], sight [eyes] and hearts. Little is the thanks you give!) [32:7-9] As the first man was created from dust (which is of earth) man shall return to it, and from it he will be resurrected on the Day of Resurrection. Allah (I) says: (Thereof [from the earth] We created you, and into it We shall return you, and from it We shall bring you out once again.) [20:55]

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Adam’s (u) Attributes

The Messenger of Allah (r) told us of his attributes. He (r) said: ‚Allah created Adam and his height was sixty arms-spans, and said to him: ‘Go and greet those angels, and listen to how they greet you; that will be your greeting and the greeting of your progeny.’ (So he went and said): ‘As-Salamu alaykum,’ and they responded, ‘As-Salamu ‘alaykum wa Rahmatullah.’ They added ‘wa Rahmatullah’. Everyone who enters Jannah will do so with Adam’s attributes, and the creation to this day has been continually decreasing in height.‛ [Bukhari]

Why do the Children of Adam Differ?

The Messenger of Allah (r) clarified why the children of Adam differ from each other; whether in color, character, or nature. He (r) said: ‚Indeed Allah (I) created Adam (u) with a handful which he scooped from the earth, so the children of Adam came to be that (form and nature) according to the (specific) soil (they were made from). Some are red, black, white, and yellow, and some are easygoing, sad, despicable, good and pure, while others are a mixture.‛ [Ibn Hibbaan]

The Creation of Haw'waa' (Eve) Mother of Humanity

After Allah created Adam (u) He created his wife from one of his left ribs, so that he would be comforted by her, and that they could procreate. Allah (I) says:

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(O mankind! Be dutiful to your Rubb, Who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him [Adam] He created his wife (Haw'waa' [Eve]) and from them both He created many men and women and fear Allah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights) and (do not cut the relations of) the wombs [kinship]. Surely, Allah is Ever a Watcher over you.) [4:1] The Prophet (r) said: ‚Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day let him not harm his neighbor. Treat your wives well, for indeed they have been created from a rib. Indeed the most bent part of a rib is its top part. If you try to straighten it, it will break, and if you leave it, it will remain bent, so treat your wives well.‛ [Bukhari]

The Home of Adam and Eve

They lived in Jannah before being expelled from it, due to the sin Adam (u) committed. Allah (I) says:

(And (mention) when We said to the Angels, ‘Prostrate to Adam,’ and they prostrated, except Iblees, he refused. * So We said, ‘O Adam, indeed this is an enemy to you and to your wife, then let him not remove you from Jannah so you would suffer. * Indeed, it is (promised) for you not to be hungry therein or be unclothed. * And indeed, you will not be thirsty therein or be hot from the sun.’ * Then Satan whispered to him; he said, ‘O Adam, shall I direct you to the tree of eternity and possession that will not deteriorate?’ * And they [i.e., Adam and his wife] ate of it, and their private parts became apparent to them, and they

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begun to fasten over themselves from the leaves of Jannah. And Adam disobeyed his Rubb and erred. * Then his Rubb chose him and turned to him in forgiveness and guided (him). * (Allah) said, ‘Descend from it [i.e., Jannah] – all, (your descendants) being enemies to one another. And if there should come to you guidance from Me – then whoever follows My guidance will neither go astray (in the world) nor suffer (in the Hereafter). * And whoever turns away from My remembrance – indeed, he will have a depressed [i.e., difficult] life, and We will gather [i.e., raise] him on the Day of Resurrection blind.’) [20:116-24]

The Beginning of Messenger-ship

Ten generations after Adam (u) people deviated from the truth, so Allah sent messengers. Ibn ‘Abbaas (t) said: ‚For (the) ten generations between Nooh [Noah] and Adam people were adhering to the Deen. Thereafter, people deviated so Allah sent to them prophets, as givers of glad tidings (of Jannah) and as warners (of the Hellfire).‛ [Haakim] The first messenger sent to humanity was Nuh (u) (Noah). Allah (I) said: ‚Verily, We have inspired you (O Muhammad (r)) as We inspired Nuh [Noah] and the Prophets after him.‛ [4:163] Allah has informed us in the Qur'an of the names of only a few Prophets and Messengers. Allah (I) says:

(And that was Our ( conclusive) argument which We gave Ibraheem [Abraham] against his people. We raise by degrees whom We will. Indeed, your Rubb is Wise and

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Knowing. * And We gave to him [i.e., Abraham] Is’haaq [Isaac] and Ya’qoob [Jacob] - all (of them) We guided. And Nuh, We guided before; and among his descendants, Dawood [David] and Sulaymaan [Solomon] and Ayyoob [Job] and Yusuf [Joseph] and Musaa [Moses] and Haaroon [Aaron]. Thus do We reward the doers of good. * And Zakariyyaa [Zechariah] and Yayhaa [John] and ‘Eesaa [Jesus] and Ilyaas [Elias] – and all were of the righteous. *

And Isma‘eel [Ishmael] and Al-Yasa‘a [Elisha] and Yunus [Jonah] and Loot [Lot] - and all (of them) We preferred over the worlds. * And (some) among their fathers and their descendants and their brothers - and We chose them and We guided them to a straight path.) [6:83-87] Allah (I) says: (Say (O Muslims), ‘We believe in Allah and that which has been sent down to us and that which has been sent down to Ibraaheem, Isma‘eel, Ishaaq, Ya’qoob, and to Al-Asbat [the twelve sons of Ya’qoob], and that which has been given to Musaa and ‘Eesaa, and that which has been given to the Prophets from their Rubb. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we have submitted (in Islam).) [2:136] Allah (I) also says: (And (remember) Isma‘eel, and Idrees [Enoch] and Dhul-Kifl [Isaiah], all were from among the patient.) [21:85] There are other Prophets and Messengers whom Allah did not inform us about. Allah (I) says:

() [4:164]

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Allah, the Exalted, would send messengers and prophets from time to time to guide people back to the Deen of Allah, and to worship Him. All Prophets and Messengers conveyed the same Message, to worship Allah alone and to disbelieve in all things worshipped to the exclusion of Allah. Allah (I) says: (And verily, We have sent among every Ummah [community, nation] a Messenger (proclaiming): ‘Worship Allah (Alone) and avoid (or keep away from) taaghoot [all false deities, i.e. do not worship taaghoot].’ Then of them were some whom Allah guided and of them were some upon whom it was justified that they go astray. So travel through the land and see the end of those who denied (the truth.)) [16:36] The laws and legislations each nation was charged with differs; for some nations were charged with things other nations were not. The (wisdom) behind this is to test the obedience of those nations. Allah (I) says: (To each among you, We have prescribed a law and a clear way. If Allah willed, He would have made you one nation, but that (He) may test you in what He has given you; so strive as in a race in good deeds.) [5:48] The last of messages, was the message of Prophet Muhammad (r) who was sent to mankind at large. Allah (I) says: (Muhammad is not the father of any man among you, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the last [end] of the Prophets.) [33:40]

One of the things that the Messengers of Allah called people to was that there is only One God worthy of being

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worshipped, Who disposes all affairs, and from whom they should seek refuge. This would lead them to spiritual happiness, and peace of heart and mind. Allah (I) says: (And We have sent you (O Muhammad (r)) not but as a mercy for all that exists.) [21:107] The proof that those who believe in Allah and in the Message achieve true happiness is clear by contrasting their lives with the lives of those who deny the existence of Allah, reject the Shari'ah, and the confusion, anxiety and spiritual unrest, they live through which causes them to take drugs, intoxicants, and depressants to fill their spiritual void. It even drives some of them to commit suicide. These things would never lead one to happiness; even if one does feel happy, it is a short-lived happiness; it is like the one who drinks salty water…it would not quench his thirst, rather it would increase his thirst. Believing in Allah, far removed is He from every imperfection, submitting to Him, and obeying Him, would certainly efface all traces of sadness and make one achieve the true happiness and comfort.

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What are Humans?

They are a creation who Allah fashioned in the best stature. Allah (I) says: (Verily, We created man of the best stature (mould).) [95:4] He fashioned man perfectly and gave him due proportion. Allah (I) says: (O man! What has made you careless concerning your Rubb, the Most Generous. * Who created you, fashioned you perfectly, and gave you due proportion.*In whatever form He willed, He put you together.) [82:6-8] He fashioned man in the best and most complete shape. Allah (I) says: (Allah, it is He Who has made for you the earth as a dwelling place and the sky as a canopy, and has given you shape and has perfected and completed your shapes and has provided you with good things. That is Allah, your Rubb, then blessed be Allah, the Rubb of the all that exists.) [40:64] He preferred and honored him above all other creations. Allah (I) says: (And indeed We have honored the Children of Adam, and We have carried them on land and sea, and have provided them with lawful good things, and have preferred them above many of those whom We have created with a marked preference.) [17:70] Allah subjected everything in the universe at the disposal of humans. Allah (I) says:

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(And has subjected to you all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth; it is all as a favor and kindness from Him.) [45:13]Humans are a distinct creation. They have not evolved from other beings. Allah (I) says: (Who has perfected everything He has created, and He began the creation of man from clay.) [32:7] What a difference between Qur'anic texts which honor man and raise his status and the theories which equate man with animals? The Qur'an does not describe man as an animal except when he trails behind his lusts and desires without restriction, and does not use his intellect, hearing or sight to ponder over the magnificent creation of the heavens and earth. Allah (I) says: (And surely We have created many of the jinn and mankind for Hell. They have hearts wherewith they understand not, they have eyes wherewith they see not, and they have ears wherewith they hear not (the truth). They are like cattle, nay even more astray. Those! They are the heedless ones.) [7:179] This is due to the fact that if one utilizes these senses properly – in pondering and contemplating – it would lead him to believe in Allah, after His (I) Grace. Ibn-ul-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

"Allah, the Exalted, chose man from among all creation and honored him such that He created them to worship Him. He created all things in the universe at their disposal. He also bestowed upon them knowledge, and chose them for His love. He gave them things which were not given to anyone

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else. He subjected for them all that is in the heavens and earth and what is in between, even the angels who are the nearest of His creation to Him. He used angels to protect man, while he is sleeping and awake, and while he is sitting and standing. He revealed to them His Books, and sent to them His Messengers, and spoke to them and addressed them. He chose some of them for His love, and He spoke to others, and others were very pious. He revealed to them His secrets, and made them the objects of His Wisdom and Love. He created Jannah and Hell-Fire for them; His creation and command, reward and punishment revolve around the human race, for he is the finest of creation. Man is charged with obeying the commands and abstaining from the prohibitions, and on account of that, he would be rewarded or punished."

The Different Stages of the Creation of Humans

In the beginning, man was nothing to be mentioned. Allah (I) says: (Has there not been over man a period of time, when he was nothing to be mentioned?) [76:1]

Al-Ghazali said:

‚Let man ponder the blessings of Allah, how He raised them from a state of humility, worthlessness and despicableness to a level of nobleness and stature. He came into existence after he was nothing; he came into life after he was dead, and spoke after muteness. He saw after he was blind, and became strong after he was weak, and gained knowledge after he was ignorant, and was guided aright after

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misguidance. He became rich after poverty. Therefore, he was nothing, and what is worse than being nothing?! Then he became something by the command of Allah.‛ [Ihyaa ‘Uloom-ud-Deen]

What were Humans Created from?

Allah (I) has clarified that man is created when the male's sperm enters the female's egg. Allah (I) says: (So let man see from what he is created! * He is created from a water gushing forth. * Proceeding from between the backbone and the ribs.) [86:5-7] Allah (I) has clarified that humans procreate through this process. Allah (I) says: (And it is He Who has created man from water, and has appointed for him kindred by blood, and kindred by marriage. And your Rubb is Ever All-Powerful to do what He wills.) [25:54] He (I) has clarified that the fetus is kept in a safe place, far from outside factors, until Allah decrees that it comes out. Allah (I) says: (Did We not create you from a worthless water [semen, etc.]? * Then We placed it in a place of safety [i.e. the womb]. * For a known period (determined by gestation)? *

So We did measure, and We are the Best to measure (the things).) [77:20-3]

Allah (I) has clarified that the fetus passes through three stages of darkness. It passes through specific stages until it

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reaches, by the ability of Allah, its final stage, and then it exits the womb and enters into this world. Allah (I) says: (He creates you in the wombs of your mothers, creation after creation in three veils of darkness.) [39:6]

Stages Humans Pass Through

1) The first stage: A drop of mixed fluid which results from the mixing of male and female fluids. Allah (I) says: (And that He [Allah] creates the pairs, male and female. From Nutfah [drops of semen, male and female discharges] when it is emitted.) [53:45-6] If Allah wills, the sperm would mix with the female's fluids and penetrate the ovary; the sperm and the female fluid upon mixing is called 'Nutfah', and is the first stage of human development. If it does not penetrate the ovary, the sperm would die. Allah (I) says: (Verily, We have created man from a nutfah drops of mixed semen [fluids of man and woman] in order to try him, so We made him to hear and to see.) [76:2] In this stage it starts taking some human attributes. Allah (I) says: (Be cursed (the disbelieving) man! How ungrateful he is! From what thing did He create him? From Nutfah [male and female semen drops] He created him and then set him in due proportion.) [80:17-9]The sex of the fetus is also decided in this stage. Allah (I) says:

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(To Allah belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth. He creates what He wills. He bestows female (offspring) upon whom He wills, and bestows male (offspring) upon whom He wills. Or He bestows both males and females, and He renders barren whom He wills. Verily, He is the All-Knower and is Able to do all things.) [42:49-50] Allah (I) also says: (He it is Who shapes you in the wombs as He pleases. Laa ilaaha illa Huwa [none has the right to be worshipped but He] the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.) [3:6] If the mixed drop does not attach to the uterus, it would be removed from the womb, by the will of Allah (U). Allah (I) says: (Allah knows what every female bears, and by how much the wombs fall short (of their time or number) or exceed. Everything with Him is in (due) proportion.) [13:8] If Allah (U) wills, it would attach itself to the uterus, and the 'nutfah' would enter the ‘alaqah stage. It implants itself in the wall of the uterus and begins to nourish itself. Allah (I) says: (And We cause whom We will to remain in the wombs for an appointed term, then We bring you out as infants.) [22:5] 2) The ‘alaqah stage. It is called an ‘alaqah (leach-like clot of coagulated blood) due to the fact that it attaches itself to the wall of the uterus and takes it nourishment from its blood. This is similar to a leach which also takes nourishment from other creatures to which it attaches itself to. Allah (I) says:

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(Read! In the Name of your Rubb, Who has created (all that exists), * has created man from a clot [a piece of thick coagulated blood].) [96:1-2] Allah (I) also says: (Was he not a Nutfah [mixed male and female discharge of semen] poured forth? * Then he became an ‘Alaqa [a clot]; then (Allah) shaped and fashioned (him) in due proportion. * And made him in two sexes, male and female.) [75:36-8]

3) The Mudghah27 stage: It is called a mudghah (lump of flesh) due to the fact that in this stage it looks like a chewed piece of flesh. Allah (I) says: (We made the clot into a little lump of flesh, then We made out of that little lump of flesh bones.) [23:14] In this stage, the fetus starts to take the shape of a human until it reaches its true human form. Allah (I) says: (Truly, nothing is hidden from Allah, in the earth or in the heavens. * He it is Who shapes you in the wombs as He pleases.) [3:5-6] In this stage, the spirit is also blown into the fetus. Allah (I) says: (Then He fashioned him in due proportion, and breathed into him the soul (created by Allah for that person) and He gave you hearing [ears] sight [eyes] and hearts.) [32:9]

27Literally, a mudghah is a lump of something which is chewed.

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There is a certain time period for each stage, as is mentioned in the Hadeeth of Ibn Masood (t) him in which he - and he is the trustworthy - said: "The Messenger of Allah (r) told us: 'One of you would remain Nutfah for 40 days in the womb of his mother, and then 40 days as Alaqah and then 40 days as Mudghah; the angel would be sent to him, and life would be breathed into him; and he would be ordered to record four things: his provisions, period of his life, his deeds, and if he is a pious or impious person. By Allah, one of you would (seemingly) do the deeds of the People of Jannah until there is only between him and it an arm-span, and he does a deed of the People of the Fire, and his record would be sealed with it, and he would enter it. And a man would (seemingly) do deeds of the People of Fire until there is only an arm-span between him and the Fire, and he does an action of the People of Jannah, and his record would be sealed with it, and he would enter it'." [Bukhari & Muslim]

What is the Soul?

The soul is something which we neither see nor understand, yet we believe in it for we see its effects. The soul is one of the greatest proofs of the existence of our Rubb (I). It also serves as a refutation of the materialists who always desire tangible evidence so that they may perceive with their senses, for they believe in the soul although they cannot perceive it with their senses, rather through its effects. The soul is one of the heavenly secrets. No one knows its true reality except Allah, and any attempt to investigate it is futile. Allah (I) says:

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(And they ask you (O Muhammad) about the soul. Say, "The soul is of the affair [i.e. concern] of my Rubb. And you [i.e. mankind] have not been given of knowledge except a little.) [17:85]

Ar-Raaghib al-Asfahaani28, said: '(The spirit) is with what a body would come to life, move about, sense his surroundings, gain knowledge and hold certain opinions, and be able to discern (between good and evil). If a person loses this, he would not possess any of these traits, and would become a carcass that needs to be carried… It is that which the spiritual characteristics are attached to just as physical characteristics are attached to the body‛ In this stage (mudghah) the bones are formed and then clothed with flesh. Allah (I) says: (We made out of that little lump of flesh bones, and then We clothed the bones with flesh.) [23:14] Allah (I) also says this when narrating the story of ‘Azeez: (Look at the bones, how We bring them together and clothe them with flesh.) [2:259] The fetus continues to develop until the time which Allah (I) prescribed comes to pass and it emerges out into this world. Allah (I) says:

((The learned men) refer to Him (Alone) the knowledge of the Hour. No fruit comes out of its sheath nor does a

28Taken from Dha’riyah ilaa Makaarim ash-Shari’ahpg. 75

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female conceive nor brings forth (young), except by His Knowledge.) [41:47] Allah (I) says: (And indeed We created man [Adam] out of an extract of clay [water and earth]. * Thereafter We made him [the offspring of Adam] as a Nutfah [mixed drops of the male and female sexual discharge] (and lodged it) in a safe lodging [the womb of the woman]. * Then We made the Nutfah into a clot [a piece of thick coagulated blood], then We made the clot into a little lump of flesh, then We made out of that little lump of flesh bones, then We clothed the bones with flesh, and then We brought it forth as another creation. So blessed be Allah, the Best of creators. * After that, surely, you will die. * Then (again), surely, you will be resurrected on the Day of Resurrection.) [23:12-16] In another ayaah, Allah (I) says:

(O mankind! If you are in doubt about the Resurrection, then verily! We have created you (i.e. Adam) from dust, then from a Nutfah [mixed drops of male and female sexual discharge i.e. offspring of Adam], then from a clot [a piece of thick coagulated blood] then from a little lump of flesh, some formed and some unformed [miscarriage], that We may make (it) clear to you [i.e. to show you Our Power and Ability to do what We will]. And We cause whom We will to remain in the wombs for an appointed term, then We bring you out as infants, then (give you growth) that you may reach your age of full strength. And among you there is he who dies (young), and among you there is he who is brought back to the miserable old age, so that he knows nothing after having known. And you see the earth barren,

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but when We send down water [rain] on it, it is stirred (to life), it swells and puts forth every lovely kind (of growth).

* That is because Allah, He is the Truth, and it is He Who gives life to the dead, and it is He Who is Able to do all things.) [22:5-6] Allah always speaks the truth; He says: (We will show them Our Signs in the universe, and in their own selves, until it becomes manifest to them that this [the Qur'an] is the truth. Is it not sufficient in regard to your Rubb that He is a Witness over all things?) [41:53]

In his book, ‚The Developing Human‛, Professor Keith Moore29 said: "It is clear to me that these statements must have come to Muhammad from God, or Allah, because most of this knowledge was not discovered until many centuries later. This proves to me that Muhammad must have been a messenger of God, or Allah." He further said: "I have no difficulty in my mind reconciling that this is a divine inspiration or revelation, which led him to these statements."

29 He is a doctor and professor in the embryo, at the Toronto University, Canada. Taken from Muhammad al-Mut'ee's book: 'I won Muhammad and did not lose the Messiah'.

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The Reality of the Life of this World

Allah (I) has clarified to us the reality of the life of this world and has informed us that it is like a fleeting shadow. (Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children, as the likeness of vegetation after rain, thereof the growth is pleasing to the tiller; afterwards it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers [evil-doers]), and (there is) Forgiveness from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers [good-doers]), whereas the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment.) [57:20] He explained that it is a trial and that its delights would busy one (and cause them to forget Allah) therefore, one must be careful. Allah (I) says: (So whatever you have been given is but a passing enjoyment for this worldly life, but that which is with Allah [Jannah] is better and more lasting for those who believe [in the Oneness of Allah, Islamic Monotheism] and put their trust in their Rubb (concerning all of their affairs).) [42:36] He explained that the life of this world is not permanent; rather it would lead one to eternal life. The life of this world is like a plot of fertile land. A person will harvest only that which he has planted: if good, he will receive good; if evil he will receive evil. Allah (I) says:

(And put forward to them the example of the life of this world, it is like the water [rain] which We send down from

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the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it, and becomes fresh and green. But (later) it becomes dry and broken pieces, which the winds scatter. And Allah is Able to do everything. * Wealth and children are the adornment of the life of this world. But the good righteous deeds [five compulsory prayers, deeds of Allah's obedience, good and nice talk, remembrance of Allah with glorification, praises and thanks, etc.], that last, are better with your Rubb for rewards and better in respect of hope.) [18:45-56] Due to the inferiority of this world, Allah grants it to the kuffaar as well as the believers. Allah (I) says: (And (remember) when Ibraheem [Abraham] said, ‘My Rubb, make this city [Makkah] a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day.’ He [Allah] answered: ‘As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to the torment of the Fire, and worst indeed is that destination!) [2:126] He (I) also says: (To each these as well as those We bestow from the Bounties of your Rubb. And the Bounties of your Rubb can never be forbidden. * See how We prefer one above another (in this world) and verily, the Hereafter will be greater in degrees and greater in preference.) [17:20-21] Sahl b. Sa’d (t) said:

‘The Messenger of Allah (r) passed through Dhul-Hulaifah and saw a bloated carcass of a sheep, and said: ‘Isn’t this sheep worthless to its master?’ The Companions said: ‘Yes!’ He said: ‘By the one in Whose hands is my soul, this world

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is far more worthless to Allah than this to its master <>[Haakim] Allah (I) encourages us to seek the Hereafter and its bounties. He (I) says: (Nay, you prefer the life of this world; * Although the Hereafter is better and more lasting.) [87:16-7] The Messenger of Allah (r) says: "By Allah, the life of this world compared to the Hereafter is like nothing but the likes of someone who dips his finger into this – and he pointed to the sea – let him see with what he returns with (how much water is on his finger as compared to the sea)." [Muslim] No one will enjoy the bounties of the Hereafter except the best of the creation, those who Allah (U) chose and is pleased with. Allah (I) says: (As for him who gives (in charity) and keeps his duty to Allah and fears Him. * And believes in Al-Husna [Islam]. *

We will make smooth for him the path of ease [goodness]. * But he who is greedy miser and thinks himself self-sufficient. * And gives the lie to al-Husna [Islam]. * We will make smooth for him the path for evil.) [92:5-10] This does not mean that one must become a monk and leave all the good and permissible things in this life from food, drink, clothes, and sex. Allah (I) says:

(Say (O Muhammad): ‘Who has forbidden the adoration with clothes given by Allah, which He has produced for

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his slaves, and At-Tayyibaat [all kinds of Halaal (lawful) things] of food?’) [7:32] The Messenger of Allah (r) said: ‚A strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than a weak believer, and in each one there is good. Be keen to do what benefits you and seek help in Allah, and do not be neglectful in doing so. And if any mishap befalls you, do not say, ‘If only I had done such and such,’ but rather say, ‘This is the Qadar of Allah, and whatever He Wills He does [Qaddarullaah, wa maa shaa fa‘al],’ for indeed (the saying of) ‘if’ opens the door for Shaytaan’s works.‛ [Muslim] What the Deen commands is that we be moderate in our lifestyles. Allah (I) says: (And let not your hand be tied (like a miser) to your neck, nor stretch it forth to its utmost reach (like a spendthrift), so that you become blameworthy and in severe poverty. *

Truly, your Rubb enlarges the provision for whom He wills and straitens (for whom He wills). Verily, He is Ever All-Knower, All-Seer of His slaves.) [17:29-30]

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What is the Goal in the Creation of Humans and Jinn?

Allah created men and jinn to worship Him alone. Allah (I) says: (And I [Allah] created not the jinn and humans except they should worship Me (Alone). * I seek not any provision from them [i.e. provision for themselves or for My creatures] nor do I ask that they should feed Me [i.e. feed themselves or My creatures]. * Verily, Allah is the All-Provider, Owner of Power, the Most Strong.) [51:56-8] Man was not created without purpose. Allah (I) says: (Did you think that We had created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us? So Exalted be Allah, the True King, La ilaha illa Huwa [none has the right to be worshipped but He], the Rubb of the Supreme Throne!) [23:115-6] Allah sent messengers to humanity in different periods of time to clarify to them and guide them to the Straight Path which leads to the Pleasure of Allah. Allah (I) says:

(Mankind were one community and Allah sent Prophets with glad tidings and warnings, and with them He sent the Scripture in truth to judge between people in matters wherein they differed. And only those to whom (the Scripture) was given differed concerning it after clear proofs had come unto them through hatred, one to another. Then Allah by His Leave guided those who believed to the truth of that wherein they differed. And Allah guides whom He wills to a Straight Path.) [2:213]

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This was the case until all the messages were completed and finalized by the Message of Muhammad (r) who was sent to mankind at large. Allah (I) says: (Say [O Muhammad (r) to these polytheists and pagans]: ‘Show me those whom you have joined to Him as partners. Nay (there are not at all any partners with Him)! But He is Allah (Alone), the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.’) [34:27] The role which humans were created to fulfill is clear and determined: to worship Allah Who created them. Whoever employs his life in that for which he was created will achieve true happiness, even if the joys he possesses of this life is little, while whoever does not employ his life in that for which he was created will only find loss, psychological problems, unease, and sorrow in this life, even if all the entertainments and joys of this life were made available to him. Allah (r) says: (<>(in the world) nor suffer (in the Hereafter). * And whoever turns away from My remembrance – indeed, he will have a depressed [i.e., difficult] life, and We will gather [i.e., raise] him on the Day of Resurrection blind.) [20:163] Nothing has been created in this universe except for a definite purpose, wisdom and greater benefit, whether we understand it or not. Allah (I) says:

(And We created not the heaven and the earth and all that is between them without purpose! That is the consideration of those who disbelieve! Then woe to those who disbelieve (in Islamic Monotheism) from the Fire!) [38:27]

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The worship of Allah is accomplished through fulfilling His commandments and abstaining from His prohibitions, which must be done in accordance to His legislation. Allah (I) says: (And verily, this is my Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His Path. This He has ordained for you that you may become the pious.) [6:153] One must not say about Deen things which Allah did not legislate, whether willingly or unintentionally. Allah (I) says: (And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allah, so call on Him by them, and leave the company of those who belie or deny (or utter impious speech against) His Names. They will be requited for what they used to do.) [7:180]