The Quran introduces qadar, or destiny, as a concept rooted in the relationship between God’s knowledge and human freedom. Destiny in Islam reflects God’s divine decree—His awareness and plan for all of creation. Yet, the Quran also highlights human responsibility and choice, making the subject intricate and deeply reflective.
What is Destiny in Islam?
In Islam, destiny (qadar) refers to God’s comprehensive knowledge of everything that will unfold. This idea serves as a reminder that God, in His infinite wisdom, knows the past, present, and future. He is aware of all events, and nothing happens beyond His will. However, understanding qadar is not simply about accepting a predetermined plan; it’s about trusting that God’s decisions are guided by wisdom and mercy.
The Balance Between Destiny and Free Will
A common question is how destiny aligns with free will. If God knows everything and has determined certain events, can humans truly make free choices? The Quran provides a balanced perspective:
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God is All-Knowing – The Quran emphasises that God’s knowledge encompasses all things in creation. In Surah Al-Hadid (57:22), “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.” This verse reflects the encompassing nature of divine knowledge.
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Human Responsibility and Free Will – The Quran also reminds us of our responsibility for our actions. In Surah Al-Insan (76:3), Allah says, “We guided him to the right path, whether he be grateful or ungrateful.” This verse implies that while guidance is provided, the decision to follow it rests with the individual. Human accountability assumes freedom to choose.
Destiny as Part of God’s Wisdom
In Islam, destiny serves as a reminder of our limited understanding. We strive to make the best choices, yet certain events—illness, accidents, opportunities—are beyond our control. The Quran encourages us to trust in God’s wisdom, knowing that His plan is ultimately for the best, even when it may be difficult to see. This trust is captured in Surah Al-Tawbah (9:51): “Say, ‘Never will we be struck except by what Allah has decreed for us; He is our protector.’ And upon Allah let the believers rely.”
Making Sense of Difficult Events
In times of hardship, the idea of destiny can be a source of comfort, though it isn’t always easy to accept. Islam promotes a balanced approach: we are urged to make efforts and seek solutions while recognising that some things lie beyond our control. Belief in destiny is not passive acceptance but an invitation to acknowledge God’s wisdom in life’s larger picture.
Destiny and the Role of Prayer
Islam teaches that prayer (dua) and effort can influence our lives within the framework of qadar. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Nothing repels destiny except supplication, and nothing increases one’s lifespan except righteousness.”This means that, although destiny is determined, we are encouraged to actively seek God’s protection and blessings. Prayer and righteous actions are ways to engage with our destiny, asking for positive outcomes and demonstrating our trust in God.
Embracing Destiny with Contentment and Effort
Belief in destiny does not mean surrendering to life without taking action. Islam teaches us to strive for the best, while ultimately placing our trust in God’s wisdom. The Prophet’s (PBUH) advice captures this balance: “Tie your camel and then trust in Allah.” We are encouraged to act