Chapter 4

(Unity of) Divine Lordship

49025: The real meaning of Tawheed al-Ruboobiyyah (Oneness of Divine Lordship), and those who reject it

Question:

What is the real meaning of Tawheed al-Ruboobiyyah?.

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

Praise be to Allaah, and blessings and peace be upon the Messenger of Allaah.

Tawheed al-ruboobiyyah means affirming that Allaah is One and Unique in His actions, such as creation, sovereignty, controlling affairs, provision, giving life and death, sending down the rain, and so on. A person's Tawheed is not complete unless he affirms that Allaah is the Lord, Sovereign, Creator and Provider of all things, that He is the Giver of life and death, the One Who brings benefit and causes harm, the only One Who answers prayers, the One Who is in control of all things, in Whose hand is all goodness, the One Who is able to do whatever He wills _ which also includes believing in the divine will and decree (al-qadar), both good and bad.

The mushrikeen among whom the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was sent did not disagree with this aspect of Tawheed, rather they affirmed it in general terms, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And indeed if you ask them: `Who has created the heavens and the earth?' They will surely say: `The AllMighty, the AllKnower created them'"

[al-Zukhruf 43:9]

And they affirmed that Allaah is in control of all things and that in His hand is sovereignty of the heavens and the earth. Thus it is known that affirming the Lordship of Allaah is not sufficient for a person to be a true Muslim, rather he must also affirm that which is implied by that, namely the oneness of the divinity of Allaah and he must devote his worship to Allaah alone.

This Tawheed _ i.e., Tawheed al-Ruboobiyyah _ is not denied by anyone of the sons of Adam. No one says that the world has two creators who are equal. No one argued with the idea of Tawheed al-Ruboobiyyah except Pharaoh, who denied it out of arrogance and stubbornness and even claimed _ may Allaah curse him _ to be the Lord. Allaah says of him (interpretation of the meaning):

"Saying: `I am your lord, most high"

[al-Naazi'aat 79:24]

" `I know not that you have an ilaah (a god) other than me'"

[al-Qasas 28:38]

This was arrogance on his part because he knew that the Lord was someone other than him. As Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And they belied them (those signs) wrongfully and arrogantly, though their ownselves were convinced thereof"

[al-Naml 16:14]

And Allaah tells us of Moosa when he was debating with him:

"[Moosa (Moses)] said: Verily, you know that these signs have been sent down by none but the Lord of the heavens and the earth"

[al-Isra' 17:102]

So he himself recognized that the only Lord is Allaah.

Similarly the Magians (Zoroastrians) rejected the idea of Tawheed al-ruboobiyyah when they said that the world has two creators, darkness and light. However they did not regard these two creators as equal, rather they said that the light is better than the darkness, because it creates good, and darkness creates evil, and that which creates good is better than that which creates evil. Moreover darkness is non-existent and does not shine, whereas light exists and shines so it is more perfect in and of itself.

The fact that the mushrikeen affirmed Tawheed al-ruboobiyyah does not mean that they did so in a complete sense. Rather they used to affirm it in a general sense, as Allaah tells us in the verses quoted above. But they had some faults in their beliefs that undermined this concept, such as attributing rain to the stars, and their belief that soothsayers and fortunetellers had knowledge of the unseen, and other forms of shirk concerning the divine Lordship. But these faults are limited compared to their incorrect beliefs with regard to the oneness of the divine nature (Tawheed al-uloohiyyah) and worshipping Allaah alone (Tawheed al-`ibaadah).

We ask Allaah to make us steadfast in adhering to His religion until we meet Him. And Allaah knows best.

See Tayseer al-`Azeez al-Hameed, 33; al-Qawl al-Mufeed, 1/14. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com)

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48980: Attributing ownership and disposal of affairs to created beings

Question:

Is it correct to attribute ownership and disposal of affairs to created beings when these are actions that should be attributed to Allaah by way of affirming His Oneness?.

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

We must believe that Allaah alone has ownership and that no one owns created beings except their Creator, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And to Allaah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth"

[Aal `Imraan 3:189]

"Say: "In Whose Hand is the sovereignty of everything"

[al-Mu'minoon 23:88]

With regard to verses which speak of ownership belonging to someone other than Allaah, such as the verses (interpretation of the meaning):

"Except from their wives or (the slaves) that their right hands possess, for then, they are free from blame"

[al-Mu'minoon 23:6]

"or (from that) whereof you hold keys"

[al-Noor 24:61]

this differs from the ownership that is attributed to Allaah in several ways, such as:

1- The ownership of a created being is limited and only includes a few of these created things. A man may own that which is under his control, but he does not own that which is under the control of others.

2- It is limited, not absolute. A man does not own that which he has in the fullest sense of the word. Hence he can only dispose of it in ways that are permitted in sharee'ah. For example, if he wants to burn his wealth or torture his animal, we say that this is not permitted. But Allaah owns things in a complete and comprehensive sense.

With regard to saying that Allaah is the only disposer of affairs, this means that a person believes that Allaah is the Only One Who is in control, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Say (O Muhammad): `Who provides for you from the sky and the earth? Or who owns hearing and sight? And who brings out the living from the dead and brings out the dead from the living? And who disposes the affairs?' They will say: `Allaah.' Say: `Will you not then be afraid of Allaah's punishment (for setting up rivals in worship with Allaah)?'

Such is Allaah, your Lord in truth. So after the truth, what else can there be, save error? How then are you turned away?"

[Yoonus 10:31]

With regard to a man's disposal of affairs, it is limited to that which is under his control and that which is permitted to him by sharee'ah.

Based on this, there is nothing wrong with attributing ownership and disposal of affairs to a person, but this sovereignty and disposal of affairs is limited. There is no one who owns and controls all things in a comprehensive sense except Allaah, may He be glorified and exalted. And Allaah knows best.

See al-Qawl al-Mufeed, 1/13.

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20613: Why did Allaah create the heavens and the earth in six days when He is able to have created it in less time?

Question:

If Allah intends a thing, his only word is "BE" and it is. can you please explain why he took 6 days to create the heavens and earth?.

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

One of the firm beliefs held by people of deep faith and complete Tawheed is that the Lord, may He be exalted, is able to do all things, and His power is without limits. He has absolute power, perfect will and ultimate control of all affairs. If He wills a thing, it happens as He wills it at the time when He wills it, and in the manner that He wills.

There are many definitive texts in the Book of our Lord and in the Sunnah of His Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) which affirm this and state it clearly, with no ambiguity. It is sufficient here for us to quote some of the verses that indicate this, such as the verses (interpretation of the meaning):

"The Originator of the heavens and the earth. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it : `Be!' — and it is"

[al-Baqarah 2:117]

Al-Haafz Ibn Katheer said in his commentary on this verse (Tafseer 1/175): "Here Allaah explains the completeness of His power and the greatness of His authority, and that if He wills and decrees something, He simply says to it, `Be!' _ just once _ and it is, i.e., it comes into existence as He willed it. This is like the verse in which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

`Verily, His Command, when He intends a thing, is only that He says to it, "Be!" — and it is!'

[Ya-Seen 36:82]."

And Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"When He has decreed something, He says to it only: `Be!' — and it is"

[Aal `Imraan 3:47]

"It is He Who gives life and causes death. And when He decides upon a thing He says to it only: `Be' — and it is"

[Ghaafir 40:68]

"And Our Commandment is but one as the twinkling of an eye"

[al-Qamar 54:50]

Al-Haafiz Ibn Katheer said in his commentary on this verse (4/261): "Here Allaah tells us how His will is executed in His creation, and how His decree is implemented. `And Our Commandment is but one' means, We only issue a command once, and We do not need to repeat it a second time, and what We command happens in the twinkling of an eye, it is not delayed for an instant. How well the poet put it:

`When Allaah wills something, all He says to it is "Be!", once, and it is.'"

And there are many other verses which speak of this matter and explain it.

Once this is established, then why did Allaah create the heavens and the earth in six days?

Firstly:

It is narrated in more than one verse of the Book of our Lord that Allaah created the heavens and the earth in six days. For example, Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Indeed, your Lord is Allaah, Who created the heavens and the earth in Six Days, and then He rose over (Istawa) the Throne (really in a manner that suits His Majesty)" [al-A'raaf 7:54]

Secondly:

There is nothing that Allaah does but there is great wisdom in it. This is one of the meanings of Allaah's name al-Hakeem (The Most Wise). Allaah may or may not show this wisdom to us, and those who have deep knowledge may understand it, to the exclusion of others.

But the fact that we may not know or understand this wisdom should not make us deny it or object to the rulings of Allaah, or try to ask too much about this wisdom that Allaah has hidden from us. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"He [Allaah] cannot be questioned as to what He does, while they will be questioned" [al-Anbiya' 21:23]

Some scholars have attempted to explain the reason why the heavens and the earth were created in six days:

1 _ Imam al-Qurtubi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in al-Jaami' li Ahkaam al-Qur'aan, commenting on al-A'raaf 7:54 (4/7/140):

"Allaah mentions this period _ i.e. six days _ although if He had wanted to create it in an instant, He could have done so, because He is Able to say to it `Be!' and is. But He wanted to:

- Teach His slaves kindness and deliberation in their affairs.

- Manifest His power to the angels step by step.

- And there is another reason: He wanted to create it in six days because Allaah has decreed a course for everything, for which reason He He delays the punishment for the sinners, because everything has an appointed time with Him."

2 _ Ibn al-Jawzi said in his tafseer called Zaad al-Maseer (3/162), commenting on the verse in Soorat al-A'raaf:

"If it is said, why did He not create it in an instant when He is Able to do so? There are five answers to this question:

(i) He wanted to create something each day to show His power to the angels and those who witnessed it. This was suggested by Ibn al-Anbaari.

(ii) He was preparing things for Adam and his offspring before Adam existed, to emphasize Adam's high standing before the angels.

(iii) Doing things in a short time is more indicative of power, and deliberation is more indicative of wisdom. Allaah wanted to manifest His wisdom in that, just as He manifested His power when He said, ` "Be!" And it is.'

(iv) He taught deliberation to His slaves, because if the One Who does not make mistakes created the universe in a deliberate manner, then it is more appropriate for those who are vulnerable to making mistakes to do things in a deliberate manner.

(v) Creation was accomplished step by step, lest anyone think that this happened as the result of an accident of nature.

3 _ al-Qaadi Abu'l-Sa'ood said in his commentary on the verse in al-A'raaf (3/232):

"The fact that Allaah created things in stages although He is able to have created everything in one go is indicative of the Divine Will and is a sign of His power for those who understand, and it encourages deliberation in all things." And he said in his commentary on al-Furqaan 25:59 (6/226):

"The One Who created these great stars in this precise configuration in stages, even though He is able to create them in one go, (that was) for a great reason and sublime purpose, which human minds cannot comprehend fully."

Based on the above, it is clear that Allaah has absolute power, ultimate will and perfect control, and He has wise reasons for everything that He creates, which no one knows but He, may He be exalted. Now you can understand some of the reasons why Allaah created the heavens and the earth in six days when He is able to have created them simply by saying "Be!".

May Allaah send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon his family and companions. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com)

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10032: Claims of divinity

Question:

There are a couple of psuedo islamic sects of the Nation of Islam (the cult of Elijah Muhammad) that believe in anthroporphism. Some of his followers have even named themselves "Allah". They even try to use a Qadiyani translation of the Quran to try and prove their beliefs. How can I refute the Man-god beliefs by using the Quran and Sunnah? Not only for the "nation of kufr", but for the christians also.

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

Firstly:

We should note that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us that this ummah would become divided.

It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "The Jews split into seventy-one or seventy-two sects, and the Christians split likewise. My ummah will split into seventy-three sects." According to a report narrated by Ibn Maajah (3993), from the hadeeth of Anas, "… all of whom will be in the Fire apart from one."

Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2640. Abu `Eesa al-Tirmidhi said: The hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah is a saheeh hasan hadeeth. It was classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Ibn Maajah, 3227.

Once this is understood, the saved and victorious group is one and it is the group that adheres to the Qur'aan and Sunnah inwardly and outwardly.

Secondly:

The one who makes a claim to divine lordship is a worse kaafir than the pre-Islamic mushrik Arabs to whom the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was sent. The mushrikoon in the Jaahiliyyah used to believe that Allaah was the Creator and Provider, the Giver of life and death. The evidence for that is the verse in which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And if you (O Muhammad) ask them: `Who has created the heavens and the earth,' they will certainly say: `Allaah'" [Luqmaan 31:25]

Yet despite that Allaah did not say that they were not mushriks and kaafirs, because they denied Tawheed al-`Uboodiyyah (Oneness of worship), which means worshipping Allaah alone. They used to prostrate to "deities" other than Allaah and offer sacrifices to "deities" other than Allaah; they associated idols in worship with Allaah and they thought that they (the idols) could bring benefit or cause harm instead of Allaah. Hence Allaah tells us that they said,

" `Has he made the aalihah (gods) (all) into One Ilaah (God — Allaah). Verily, this is a curious thing!'"

[Saad 38:5 _ interpretation of the meaning]

And Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And those who take Awliyaa' (protectors, helpers, lords, gods) besides Him (say): `We worship them only that they may bring us near to Allaah'" [al-Zumar 39:3]

This indicates that the kufr of the mushrik Arabs was less serious than the kufr of those mentioned in the question, because the mushrik Arabs affirmed the Oneness of divine Lordship (Tawheed al-Ruboobiyyah) whereas these people deny it.

Allaah has refuted in the Qur'aan the specious arguments of those who lay claim to divine lordship. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Had there been therein (in the heavens and the earth) aalihah (gods) besides Allaah, then verily, both would have been ruined"

[al-Anbiya' 21:22]

"No son (or offspring) did Allaah beget, nor is there any ilaah (god) along with Him. (If there had been many gods), then each god would have taken away what he had created, and some would have tried to overcome others! Glorified be Allaah above all that they attribute to Him!"

[al-Mu'minoon 23:91]

The story of the arguments that Ibraaheem (peace be upon him) used against those who made claims of divine lordship shows us the best way of arguing against them. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Have you not looked at him who disputed with Ibraaheem (Abraham) about his Lord (Allaah), because Allaah had given him the kingdom? When Ibraaheem (Abraham) said (to him): `My Lord (Allaah) is He Who gives life and causes death.' He said, `I give life and cause death.' Ibraaheem (Abraham) said, `Verily, Allaah brings the sun from the east; then bring it you from the west.' So the disbeliever was utterly defeated. And Allaah guides not the people, who are Zaalimoon (wrongdoers)"

[al-Baqarah 2:258]

So follow this example and say to the one who makes claims of divine lordship, "If what you are saying is true, then let him bring the sun from the west, or bring the dead back to life, or cause rain to fall from the sky, or bring forth crops from the earth."

Fourthly:

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) has told us that the Dajjaal who will emerge at the end of time will claim to be divine. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) has told us the sign by which we may know that his claim to be God is false. This sign is that the Dajjaal will be one-eyed, blind in his right eye.

It was narrated from Ibn `Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) stood up to address the people. He praised Allaah as He deserves to be praised, then he mentioned the Dajjaal and said: "I warn you of him, and there is no Prophet who did not warn his people of him. Nooh warned his people, but I am warning you in words that no other Prophet has said to his people. You should know that he (the Dajjaal) is one-eyed and Allaah is not one-eyed." (narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2892; Muslim, 169).

This sign will be obvious to everyone who sees it. If this Dajjaal was the Lord Who brought this universe into being with all its beauty, He would be able to remove that ugliness from himself and remove that blindness from his eye.

Allaah, Who created this universe and created man with his wondrous harmony and perfect shape, must inevitably be absolutely perfect with no shortcomings or imperfections of any sort whatsoever.

Signs of imperfection are obvious in those who makes claims of divine lordship; they sleep, fall sick, suffer pain, suffer discomfort in heat and cold, need food and drink. Any one of them carries impurities (najaasah) within himself and needs to go to the lavatory one or twice a day! Are such people fit to be called gods? Glory be to You (O Allaah)! This is a great lie (cf. al-Noor 24:16).

It is not strange that they make this claim; what is really strange is that they have followers who agree with what they say.

Fifthly:

The Muslim must realize that these sects _ such as the group mentioned, and the Qadianis, Baha'is and other misguided groups _ were only established to fight Islam and lead its people away from it. It does not take much effort to demonstrate that they are misguided and false. The Muslim should beware of them and warn other Muslims against these misguided groups.

Sixthly:

With regard to refuting the religion of the Christians, it does not require much effort. All that is needed to refute them is the following words of Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allaah have mercy on him):

O worshippers of the Messiah, we have a question, to which we want an answer from the one who understands it.

If a god dies because of the actions of people who kill him, what is this god?

Is he pleased with what they did to him? Then they must be lucky for they have earned his pleasure.

If he is displeased with what they did to him, their power has nevertheless overwhelmed his.

Did the universe remain without a god who hears all and answers those who call upon him?

Were the seven heavens left with no god above them when he was buried in the ground?

Was this universe left with no god to look after it when his hands were nailed (to the cross)?

How could this god be forsaken by all his creation when they heard him weep?

How could this wood bear the true god who was tied to it?

How could iron come close to him and penetrate him and wound him?

How could the hands of his enemies reach him when they struck the back of his head?

Was the Messiah brought back to life or is the one who revived him another god?

What a strange grave it is that could contain a god. What is even stranger is that a womb could contain him,

Where he remained for nine months, nourished from blood,

Then he emerged from the vagina as a tiny baby, opening his mouth and seeking the breast,

Eating and drinking, with the inevitable consequences thereof. Is that a god?

Exalted be Allaah above the fabrications of the Christians. He will question them all about the lies they told.

O worshippers of the cross, for what reason is that thing (the cross) venerated?

Rationally speaking, it should be broken and burned.

If god was crucified upon it by force and his hands nailed to it,

Then the thing used for that purpose should be cursed and trampled upon, not kissed when you see it.

How can the Lord of the Worlds be humiliated on it, then you go and worship it?

Then you are the enemies of that god, if you venerate it because the lord of mankind has touched it.

That cross is lost but every time we see something similar it reminds us of that cross.

Then why you do you not venerate the graves, for a grave once contained your lord?

O worshipper of the Messiah, wake up! He has a beginning and he has an end.

Ighaathat al-Lahfaan, 1/291

And Allaah knows best.

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20011: Using the word "create" in relation to anyone other than Allaah

Question:

Many muslims use the word `create' for human biengs, e.g `he has a creative mind ` or `He or she created this or that. Even some very good muslims are using this word in their books. The only creator is Allah ,so is it right to use this word for human biengs

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

Undoubtedly Allaah is the Only Creator. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Is there any creator other than Allaah who provides for you from the sky (rain) and the earth?" [Faatir: 35:3]

But the word khalaqa (create) has been used in reference to others apart from Allaah, for example in the verse (interpretation of the meaning);

"So Blessed is Allaah, the Best of creators"

[al-Mu'minoon 23:14]

And in al-Saheehayn it is narrated from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) that on the Day of Resurrection it will be said to the image-makers, "Bring to life that which you have created!"

When the word khalaqa (create) is used in reference to Allaah, it means bringing something into existence from nothing. This is what no one else is able to do besides Allaah. But when the word khalaqa is used in reference to man, it means transforming something from one shape into another.

If it is used with reference to someone other than Allaah, saying that he creates in the sense that he changes a thing from one shape into another, then this is correct. But if it is used with reference to someone other than Allaah, saying that he creates in the sense that he brings something into existence from nothing, then this is not permissible. And Allaah knows best.

Kitaab al-Qawl al-Mufeed `ala Kitaab al-Tawheed by Shaykh Ibn `Uthaymeen, 1/6

With regard to what some people say, "So and so has a creative mind", what they mean by that is that he is smart, and is able to come up with new and good ideas. There is nothing wrong with that, Islamically speaking, but it is better to explain to avoid such phrases which may be misunderstood.

And Allaah knows best. May Allaah send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad.

Islam Q&A

Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com)

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21887: Attitudes towards the mistakes of qaadis

Question:

Ignorant qaadis (judges) are causing us to be put off the wise sharee'ah, not because of some lack in sharee'ah, far from it, but because of the shortcomings in the minds of our judges, may Allaah guide them. Allaah is more merciful to people than they are. The hadd punishment for the drinker is 80 lashes, and this is one of the seven major sins that lead a person to doom, but they will issue a harsher sentence than that in minor cases. It is as if Islamic judgement is synonymous with excessive punishment and prison. Meeting some qaadis who barely return salaams is a sign of harsh punishment. Is it permissible to call for the implementation of man-made laws because we cannot implement sharee'ah with such mentalities, rather they give us a bad impression of sharee'ah. The qaadi is the one who least adheres to his official working hours, the worst of the people in dealing with others and the one who most loves to acquire money and pieces of land. What is the solution _ may Allaah preserve and increase the number of people like you who adhere to their religion and who believe in the importance of technology in serving this pure religion. Finally I would like to say, may Allaah make the righteous qaadis steadfast and guide those who have gone astray to the right path.

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

I am sure that what is said here is an exaggeration, but qaadis are not infallible. Like other people, they may be right _ which is what usually happens _ or they may be wrong, but the mistake of the mujtahid is forgiven in sha Allaah. If any mistake is made, then the person who notices this mistake has to advise the one who made it and consult with scholars and people of virtue who can also advise the qaadi. It is not permitted under any circumstances, even if mistakes are being made, to call for the implementation of man-made law. Allaah says (interpretation of the meanings):

"But no, by your Lord, they can have no Faith, until they make you (O Muhammad) judge in all disputes between them, and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission"

[al-Nisaa' 4:65]

"And whosoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed, such are the Kaafiroon (i.e. disbelievers)… such are the Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrongdoers)… (then) such (people) are the Faasiqoon [the rebellious i.e. disobedient] to Allaah"[al-Maa'idah 5:44, 45, 47]

Ruling by anything other than that which Allaah has revealed is one of the greatest evil actions which the Muslims must deal with immediately, so how could we ask for it to be implemented? Qaadis have to fear Allaah with regard to their judgements, and ensure that they are in accordance with the sharee'ah of Allaah. Punishments are the means of treating the problems of society. Qaadis and others who do less than their official hours of work have to fear Allaah with regard to that and be keen to avoid shortcomings and be sure that their earnings are halaal, because they are hired employees, and it is not permissible to have any shortcomings in any of the things that Allaah has enjoined upon them.

Shaykh `Abd al-Kareem al-Khudayr (www.islam-qa.com)

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13379: His is the creation and the commandment

Question:

What is the meaning of the aayah (interpretation of the meaning), "Surely, His is the creation and commandment" [al-A'raaf 7:54]

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

Allaah has created all things, including the heavens and the earth, and everything that is between them and in them; He has created the heavens one above the other and the earth as a wide expanse; He has created the shining planets and stars, the firm mountains, all kinds of minerals and trees, beneficial water, various kinds of animals, the ever-renewing wind, the mighty angels, mankind, the jinn, birds, animals, inanimate objects and plants:

"This is the creation of Allaah. So show Me that which those (whom you worship) besides Him have created [Luqmaan 31:11 _ interpretation of the meaning]

These great creations point to the greatness of the Creator; their large number points to the power of the Creator; their colours and types point to the ability of the Creator. The variety of the things they do and the benefits they bring points to the wisdom of the Creator and how He is protecting and controlling them. This points to the life of the Creator, His knowledge, power and strength, and that He is:

"Allaah! Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), Al-Hayyul-Qayyoom (the Ever Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists)" [al-Baqarah 2:255 _ interpretation of the meaning]

He is our Lord Who knows all things, Who has dominion over all things and Who created all things:

"Indeed, your Lord is Allaah, Who created the heavens and the earth in Six Days, and then He rose over (Istawaa) the Throne (really in a manner that suits His Majesty). He brings the night as a cover over the day, seeking it rapidly, and (He created) the sun, the moon, the stars subjected to His Command. Surely, His is the creation and commandment. Blessed is Allaah, the Lord of the `Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists)!"

[al-A'raaf 7:54 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Glory be to Him. His are the Most Beautiful names and the most sublime attributes. Whatever He wills happens, and whatever He does not will does not happen. Nothing is beyond His control on earth or in the heavens:

"Verily, His Command, when He intends a thing, is only that He says to it, `Be!' and it is!"

[Yaa-Seen 36:82 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord is Able to do all things; He creates whatever He wills, however He wills:

"Allaah has created every moving (living) creature from water. Of them there are some that creep on their bellies, and some that walk on two legs, and some that walk on four. Allaah creates what He wills. Verily, Allaah is Able to do all things"

[al-Noor 24:54 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord is Powerful and Almighty:

"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. And He has scattered therein moving (living) creatures of all kinds. And We send down water (rain) from the sky, and We cause (plants) of every goodly kind to grow therein"

[Luqmaan 31:10 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord knows all things:

"Have you not seen that Allaah knows whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is on the earth? There is no Najwa (secret counsel) of three but He is their fourth (with His Knowledge, while He Himself is over the Throne, over the seventh heaven), — nor of five but He is their sixth (with His Knowledge), — nor of less than that or more but He is with them (with His Knowledge) wheresoever they may be. And afterwards on the Day of Resurrection He will inform them of what they did. Verily, Allaah is the AllKnower of everything"

[al-Mujaadilah 58:7 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord is the One Who has created us and created our provision:

"O mankind! Remember the Grace of Allaah upon you! Is there any creator other than Allaah who provides for you from the sky (rain) and the earth? Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). How then are you turning away (from Him)?"

[Faatir 35:3 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord is Subtle, Well-Aware:

"O my son! If it be (anything) equal to the weight of a grain of mustard seed, and though it be in a rock, or in the heavens or in the earth, Allaah will bring it forth. Verily, Allaah is Subtle (in bringing out that grain), WellAware (of its place)"

[Luqmaan 31:16 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord is All-Knowing, Able to do all things:

"To Allaah 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 AllKnower and is Able to do all things"

[al-Shoora 42:49-50 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord is Most Generous, Most Kind:

"Allaah, 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 made your shapes good (looking) and has provided you with good things. That is Allaah, your Lord, so Blessed be Allaah, the Lord of the `Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists)"

[Ghaafir 40:64 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord is All-Wise, All-Knowing:

"And it is He Who makes the night a covering for you, and the sleep (as) a repose, and makes the day Nushoor (i.e. getting up and going about here and there for daily work, after one's sleep at night or like resurrection after one's death).

And it is He Who sends the winds as heralds of glad tidings, going before His Mercy (rain); and We send down pure water from the sky,

That We may give life thereby to a dead land, and We give to drink thereof many of the cattle and men that We had created"

[al-Furqaan 25:47-49 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord is the One Who created all of mankind from a single soul:

"O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife [Hawwa (Eve)], and from them both He created many men and women

[al-Nisaa' 4:1 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord is Powerful and Able to do all things:

"Verily, Allaah grasps the heavens and the earth lest they should move away from their places, and if they were to move away from their places, there is not one that could grasp them after Him. Truly, He is Ever Most Forbearing, Oft Forgiving

[Faatir 35:41 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord created all things:

"Allaah is the Creator of all things, and He is the Wakeel (Trustee, Disposer of affairs, Guardian) over all things

[al-Zumar 39:62 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our Lord encompasses all things:

"And to Allaah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. And Allaah is Ever Encompassing all things [al-Nisa' 4:126 _ interpretation of the meaning]

The decision of all things rests with Allaah:

"The decision of the matter, before and after (these events) is only with Allaah [al-Room 30:4]

The control of all things is in the hand of Allaah:

"And to Allaah belongs the Ghayb (Unseen) of the heavens and the earth, and to Him return all affairs (for decision)"

[Hood 11:123 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Allaah has commanded us to worship none but Him, and to refer for judgement to none but Him:

"The command (or the judgement) is for none but Allaah. He has commanded that you worship none but Him

[Yoosuf 12:40 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Allaah has commanded us to obey Him and to obey His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him):

"And obey Allaah and the Messenger (Muhammad) that you may obtain mercy"

[Aal `Imraan 3:123 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Allaah enjoins good conduct and forbids us to behave in a bad way, as He says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Verily, Allaah enjoins Al `Adl (i.e. justice and worshipping none but Allaah Alone — Islamic Monotheism) and Al Ihsaan [i.e. to be patient in performing your duties to Allaah, totally for Allaah's sake and in accordance with the Sunnah (legal ways) of the Prophet in a perfect manner], and giving (help) to kith and kin (i.e. all that Allaah has ordered you to give them, e.g., wealth, visiting, looking after them, or any other kind of help), and forbids AlFahsha' (i.e. all evil deeds, e.g. illegal sexual acts, disobedience of parents, polytheism, to tell lies, to give false witness, to kill a life without right), and Al Munkar (i.e. all that is prohibited by Islamic law: polytheism of every kind, disbelief and every kind of evil deeds), and Al Baghy (i.e. all kinds of oppression). He admonishes you, that you may take heed"

[al-Nahl 16:90]

Allaah commands us to co-operate in goodness and He forbids us all evil, as He says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Help you one another in Al Birr and At Taqwa (virtue, righteousness and piety); but do not help one another in sin and transgression

[al-Maa'idah 5:2]

Creation, commandment and sovereignty belong to Allaah alone:

"To Allaah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth and all that is therein, and He is Able to do all things [al-Maa'idah 5:120 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Our hearts are created with the natural inclination (fitrah) to affirm that sovereignty and creation belong to Allaah alone and to none other:

"Say: `Whose is the earth and whosoever is therein? If you know!'

They will say: `It is Allaah's!' Say: `Will you not then remember?'

Say: `Who is (the) Lord of the seven heavens, and (the) Lord of the Great Throne?'

They will say: `Allaah.' Say: `Will you not then fear Allaah (believe in His Oneness, obey Him, believe in the Resurrection and Recompense for every good or bad deed)?'

Say: `In Whose Hand is the sovereignty of everything (i.e. treasures of everything)? And He protects (all), while against Whom there is no protector (i.e. if Allaah saves anyone, none can punish or harm him; and if Allaah punishes or harms anyone, none can save him), if you know?'

They will say: `(All that belongs) to Allaah.' Say: `How then are you deceived and turn away from the truth?'

Nay, but We have brought them the truth (Islamic Monotheism), and verily, they (disbelievers) are liars" [al-Mu'minoon 23:84-90 _ interpretation of the meaning]

O mankind, will you not respond?

"Say (to the disbelievers): "Tell me, if Allaah took away your hearing and your sight, and sealed up your hearts, who is there — an ilaah (a god) other than Allaah who could restore them to you?"

[al-An'aam 6:46 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Will you not understand?

"Say (O Muhammad): `Tell me! If Allaah made the night continuous for you till the Day of Resurrection, which ilaah (a god) besides Allaah could bring you light? Will you not then hear?'

Say (O Muhammad): `Tell me! If Allaah made the day continuous for you till the Day of Resurrection, which ilaah (a god) besides Allaah could bring you night wherein you rest? Will you not then see?'"

[al-Qasas 28:71-72 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Will you not think?

"Then tell Me (about) the (human) semen that you emit.

Is it you who create it (i.e. make this semen into a perfect human being), or are We the Creator?"

[al-Waaqi'ah 56:58-59 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Will you not see?

"Then tell Me about the seed that you sow in the ground.

Is it you that make it grow, or are We the Grower?"

[al-Waaq'iah 56:63-64 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Will you not understand?

"Then tell Me about the water that you drink.

Is it you who cause it from the rain clouds to come down, or are We the Causer of it to come down?

If We willed, We verily, could make it salt (and undrinkable); why then do you not give thanks (to Allaah)?

Then tell Me about the fire which you kindle.

Is it you who made the tree thereof to grow, or are We the Grower?

We have made it a Reminder (of the Hell fire in the Hereafter), and an article of use for the travellers (and all the others, in this world).

Then glorify with praises the Name of your Lord, the Most Great"

[al-Waaqi'ah 56:68-74 interpretation of the meaning]

Will you not realize? Who has subjugated the night and the day, the sun, moon, planets and stars? It is Allaah alone, as He says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And He has subjected to you the night and the day, and the sun and the moon; and the stars are subjected by His Command. Surely, in this are proofs for people who understand

[al-Nahl 16:12]

Since Allaah is the One Who creates, and He is the One Who provides, and He is the One Who controls all things, and He is the One Who knows all things, then He is the only One Who deserves to be worshipped, because He is Ever-Living, Self-Sustaining, the Creator, Provider, All-Knowing, All-Powerful, and anyone besides Him is incapable and weak, unable to create or provide, with no power of bringing benefit or causing harm:

"And Allaah knows what you conceal and what you reveal.

Those whom they (Al Mushrikoon) invoke besides Allaah have not created anything, but are themselves created.

(They are) dead, not alive; and they know not when they will be raised up.

Your Ilaah (God) is One Ilaah (God Allaah, none has the right to be worshipped but He). But for those who believe not in the Hereafter, their hearts deny (the faith in the Oneness of Allaah), and they are proud"

[al-Nahl 16:19-22 _ interpretation of the meaning]

From Usool al-Deen al-Islami, by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibraaheem al-Tuwayjri (www.islam-qa.com)

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13532: The Oneness of Allaah

Question:

Is it possible to give the mushrikoon (polytheists, those who associate others with Allaah) proof of the oneness of Allaah?

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

The entire universe, in the way it is created and the way it is controlled, bears witness to the oneness of Allaah:

"Surely, His is the creation and commandment. Blessed is Allaah, the Lord of the `Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists)!

[al-A'raaf 7:54 _ interpretation of the meaning]

The creation of the heavens and the earth, the alternation of night and day, the different kinds of inanimate objects, plants and fruits, the creation of humans and animals… all of that indicates that the Almighty Creator is One with no partner or associate:

"That is Allaah, your Lord, the Creator of all things, Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). How then are you turning away (from Allaah, by worshipping others instead of Him)?[Ghaafir 40:62 _ interpretation of the meaning]

The variety and greatness of these created things, the perfect way in which they are formed, the way in which they are maintained and controlled, all indicate that the Creator is One and that He does as He wills and rules and decides as He wants:

"Allaah is the Creator of all things, and He is the Wakeel (Trustee, Disposer of affairs, Guardian) over all things" [al-Zumar 39:62 _ interpretation of the meaning]

All of the above indicate that this universe has a Creator, that this dominion has a Sovereign, that behind these forms is One Who gives them shape:

"He is Allaah, the Creator, the Inventor of all things, the Bestower of forms. To Him belong the Best Names"

[al-Hashr 59:24 _ interpretation of the meaning]

The soundness of the heavens and the earth, the order of the universe, the harmony among created things, all indicate that the Creator is One, with no partner or associate:

"Had there been therein (in the heavens and the earth) aalihah (gods) besides Allaah, then verily, both would have been ruined. Glorified be Allaah, the Lord of the Throne, (High is He) above all that (evil) they associate with Him!"[al-Anbiya' 21:22 _ interpretation of the meaning]

These great created things either created themselves _ which is impossible _ or man created himself then created them _ which is also impossible:

"Were they created by nothing? Or were they themselves the creators?

Or did they create the heavens and the earth? Nay, but they have no firm Belief"[al-Toor 52:35-36 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Reason, Revelation and the original state of man (fitrah) all indicate that this universe has One Who brought into being, that these created things have a Creator Who is Ever-Living and Eternal, All-Knowing and All-Aware, Powerful and Almighty, Kind and Most Merciful. He has the Most Beautiful Names and Sublime Attributes and He knows all things. Nothing is beyond His control, and there is nothing like unto Him:

"And your Ilaah (God) is One Ilaah (God — Allaah), Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (there is none who has the right to be worshipped but He), the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

[al-Baqarah 2:163 _ interpretation of the meaning]

The existence of Allaah is something that is there is no excuse for not knowing. It is the matter of common sense:

"Their Messengers said: What! Can there be a doubt about Allaah, the Creator of the heavens and the earth?"

[Ibraaheem 14:10 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Allaah has created people with the natural instinct (fitrah) to affirm His Lordship and Oneness, but the shayaateen (devils) came to the sons of Adam and caused them to deviate from their religion. According to a hadeeth qudsi, "I created all My slaves as haneefs (monotheists), but the shayaateen (devils) came to them and made them deviate from their religion, and they forbade them that which I had permitted to them." (Narrated by Muslim, no. 2865)

Among them are those who deny the existence of Allaah, and those who worship the Shaytaan, and those who worship man. And there are those who worship the dinar [money], or fire, or genital organs, or animals. And there are some who associate in worship with Him a stone from the earth or a star in the sky.

These things which are worshipped instead of Allaah, cannot create or provide; they cannot hear or see, or bring benefits or cause harm. So how can they worship them instead of Allaah?

"Are many different lords (gods) better or Allaah, the One, the Irresistible?"[Yoosuf 12:39 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Allaah has condemned those who worship these idols which cannot hear, see or think:

"Verily, those whom you call upon besides Allaah are slaves like you. So call upon them and let them answer you if you are truthful.

Have they feet wherewith they walk? Or have they hands wherewith they hold? Or have they eyes wherewith they see? Or have they ears wherewith they hear?" [al-A'raaf 7:194-195 _ interpretation of the meaning]

"Say (O Muhammad to mankind): `How do you worship besides Allaah something which has no power either to harm or benefit you? But it is Allaah Who is the AllHearer, AllKnower" [al-Maa'idah 5:76 _ interpretation of the meaning]

How ignorant man is of his Lord Who created him and provides for him. How he rejects Him and forgets Him, and worships others instead of Him:

"Verily, it is not the eyes that grow blind, but it is the hearts which are in the breasts that grow blind" [al-Hajj 22:46 _ interpretation of the meaning]

Glorified be Allaah far above that which they associate with Him. Praise be to Allaah the Lord of the Worlds:

"Say (O Muhammad): Praise and thanks be to Allaah, and peace be on His slaves whom He has chosen (for His Message)! Is Allaah better, or (all) that you ascribe as partners (to Him)?" (Of course, Allaah is Better).

Is not He (better than your gods) Who created the heavens and the earth, and sends down for you water (rain) from the sky, whereby We cause to grow wonderful gardens full of beauty and delight? It is not in your ability to cause the growth of their trees. Is there any ilaah (god) with Allaah? Nay, but they are a people who ascribe equals (to Him)!

Is not He (better than your gods) Who has made the earth as a fixed abode, and has placed rivers in its midst, and has placed firm mountains therein, and has set a barrier between the two seas (of salt and sweet water)? Is there any ilaah (god) with Allaah? Nay, but most of them know not!

Is not He (better than your gods) Who responds to the distressed one, when he calls on Him, and Who removes the evil, and makes you inheritors of the earth, generations after generations? Is there any ilaah (god) with Allaah? Little is that you remember!

Is not He (better than your gods) Who guides you in the darkness of the land and the sea, and Who sends the winds as heralds of glad tidings, going before His Mercy (rain)? Is there any ilaah (god) with Allaah? High Exalted be Allaah above all that they associate as partners (to Him)!

Is not He (better than your socalled gods) Who originates creation, and shall thereafter repeat it, and Who provides for you from heaven and earth? Is there any ilaah (god) with Allaah? Say: `Bring forth your proofs, if you are truthful'"

[al-Naml 27:59-64 _ interpretation of the meaning] From Usool al-Deen al-Islami by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibraaheem al-Tuwayjri (www.islam-qa.com)

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11745: The meaning of the unity of judicature

Question:

What is your view of the denial of the unity of judicature (Tawheed al-Haakimiyyah)? Is counting it as a separate category (of Tawheed) contrary to the teachings of the Salaf? Under what types of Tawheed is this matter counted?

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

It is not permissible to deny the unity of judicature, because it is one of the types of Tawheed, but it comes under the heading of unity of worship (Tawheed al-`Ibaadah) with regard to the ruler when he rules according to sharee'ah. But with regard to this concept (Tawheed), it comes under the heading of the unity of Lordship (Tawheed al-Ruboobiyyah), because the Ruler is Allaah, may He be exalted.

The Lord Who is in control of all things has to be the Ruler, so it comes under the heading of Tawheed al-Ruboobiyyah as far as rulings, commands, prohibitions and control are concerned. But with regard to implementation and acting upon it, a person is obliged to follow the rulings of Allaah, thus it comes under the heading of Tawheed al-`Ibaadah in this regard.

There is no reason to make it a fourth category of Tawheed, because it is included in the three existing Islam & Muslims. There is no need to add further Islam & Muslims. The matter is easy to understand anyway, but if a person wishes to study the issue of judicature (al-haakimiyyah) separately, he will find that it is synonymous with other concepts, but that is fine.

Shaykh `Abd-Allaah ibn al-Ghunaymaan (www.islam-qa.com)

Search Inside This Book At Google Book Search - (260 pages)

4548: Is there a Creator of this universe?

Question:

Do you think there is any evidence that the universe has been designed by an intelligent and powerful creator?

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

We thank you for your question, and would like to answer by quoting a number of aayaat (verses) from the Book of Allaah (the Qur'aan _ the scripture of Islam), then you can think to yourself about the matter and if the truth becomes clear to you, you will have no choice but to follow it.

Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Were they created by nothing, or were they themselves the creators?

Or did they create the heavens and the earth? Nay, but they have no firm Belief.

Or are with them the treasures of your Lord? Or are they the tyrants with the authority to do as they like?"[al-Toor 52:35-37]

"Verily, the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, and the ships which sail through the sea with that which is of use to mankind, and the water (rain) which Allaah sends down from the sky and makes the earth alive therewith after its death, and the moving (living) creatures of all kinds that He has scattered therein, and in the veering of winds and clouds which are held between the sky and the earth, are indeed aayaat (proofs, evidences, signs) for people of understanding."

[al-Baqarah 2:164]

"It is He Who sends down water (rain) from the sky, and with it We bring forth vegetation of all kinds, and out of it We bring forth green stalks, from which We bring forth thick clustered grain. And out of the date-palm and its spathe come forth clusters of dates hanging low and near, and gardens of grapes, olives and pomegranates, each similar (in kind) yet different (in variety and taste). Look at their fruits when they begin to bear, and the ripeness thereof. Verily! In these things there are signs for people who believe."

[al-An'aam 6:99]

"And it is He Who sends the winds as heralds of glad tidings, going before His Mercy (rain), till when they have carried a heavy-laden cloud, We drive it to a land that is dead, then We cause water (rain) to descend thereon. Then We produce every kind of fruit therewith. Similarly, We shall raise up the dead, so that you may remember or take heed."

[al-A'raaf 7:57]

"Have not those who disbelieve known that the heavens and the earth were joined together as one united piece, then We parted them? And We have made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe?"[al-Anbiya' 21:30]

"Is not He (better than your gods) Who created the heavens and the earth, and sends down for you water (rain) from the sky, whereby We cause to grow wonderful gardens full of beauty and delight? It is not in your ability to cause the growth of their trees. Is there any god with Allaah? Nay, but they are a people who ascribe equals (to Him)!"[al-Naml 27:60]

"He has created the heavens and the earth without any pillars that you see, and has set on the earth firm mountains, lest it should shake with you. And He has scattered therein moving (living) creatures of all kinds. And We send down water (rain) from the sky, and We cause (plants) of every goodly kind to grow therein."[Luqmaan 31:10]

"See you not (O men) that Allaah has subjected for you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth, and has completed and perfected His Graces upon you, (both) apparent (i.e., Islamic Monotheism, and the lawful pleasures of this world, including health, good looks, etc.) and hidden (i.e., one's Faith in Allaah, knowledge, wisdom, guidance for doing righteous deeds, and also the pleasures and delights of the Hereafter in Paradise, etc.)? Yet of mankind in he who disputes about Allaah without knowledge or guidance or a Book giving light!"[Luqmaan 31:20]

"And the two seas (kinds of water) are not alike, this fresh, sweet and pleasant to drink, and that saltish and bitter. And from them both you eat fresh tender meat (fish), and derive the ornaments that you wear. And you see the ships cleaving (the sea-water as they sail through it), that you may seek of His Bounty, and that you may give thanks."[Faatir 35:12]

"Have you not seen how your Lord spread the shadow? If He willed, He could have made it still _ then We have made the sun its guide [i.e., after the sunrise, it (the shadow) contracts and vanishes at noon, and then again appears in the afternoon with the decline of the sun, and had there been no sunlight, there would have been no shadow]

Then We withdraw it to Us _ a gradual concealed withdrawal.

And it is He Who makes the night a covering for you, and the sleep (as) repose, and makes the day nushoor (i.e., getting up and going about here and there for daily work, etc., after one's sleep at night or like resurrection after one's death).

And it is He Who sends the winds as heralds of glad tidings, going before His Mercy (rain), and We send down pure water from the sky, -

That We may give life thereby to a dead land, and We give to drink thereof many of the cattle and men that We had created,"

[al-Furqaan 25:45-49]

"And it is He Who has let free the two seas (kinds of water), one palatable and sweet, and the other salt and bitter, and He has set a barrier and a complete partition between them."

[al-Furqaan 25:53]

"And a sign for them is the dead land. We gave it life, and We brought forth from it grains, so that they eat thereof.

And We have made therein gardens of date-palms and grapes, and We have caused springs of water to gush forth therein.

So that they may eat of the fruit thereof, and their hands made it not. Will they not, then, give thanks?

Glory be to Him, Who has created all the pairs of that which the earth produces, as well as of their own (human) kind (male and female), and of that which they know not.

And a sing for them is the night. We withdraw therefrom the day, and behold, they are in darkness.

And the sun runs on its fixed course for a term (appointed). That is the Decree of the All-Mighty, the All-Knowing.

And the moon, We have measured for it mansions (to traverse) till it returns like the old dried curved date stalk.

It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor does the night outstrip the day. They all float, each in an orbit.

And a sign for them is that We bore their offspring in the laden ship (of Nooh).

And We have created for them of the like thereunto, so on them they ride.

And if We will, We shall drown them, and there will be no shout (or helper) for them (to hear their cry for help) nor will they be saved,

Unless it be a mercy from Us, and as an enjoyment for a while."

[Yaa-Seen 36:33-44]

"We created you, then why do you believe not?

Then tell Me (about) the human semen that you emit.

Is it you who create it (i.e., make this semen into a perfect human being), or are We the Creator?

We have decreed death unto you all, and We are not unable,

To transfigure you and create you in (forms) that you know not.

And indeed, you have already known the first form of creation (i.e., the creation of Adam). Why then do you not remember or take heed?

Tell Me! The seed that you sow in the ground.

Is it you that make it grow, or are We the Grower?

Were it Our Will, We could crumble it to dry pieces, and you would be regretful (or left in wonderment),

(Saying), `We are indeed Mughramoon (i.e., ruined, or lost the money without any profit, or punished by the loss of all that we spent for cultivation, etc.)!

`Nay, but we are deprived!'

Tell Me! The water that you drink,

Is it you who cause it from the rainclouds to come down, or are We the Causer of it to come down?

If We willed, We verily could make it salt (and undrinkable). Why then do you not give thanks (to Allaah)?

Tell Me! The fire which you kindle,

Is it you who made the tree thereof to grow, or are We the Grower?

We have made it a Reminder (for the Hell-fire, in the Hereafter); and an article of use for the travellers (and all others, in this world).

The glorify with praises the Name of your Lord, the Most Great.

So I swear by mawaaqi' (setting to the mansions, etc.) of the stars (they traverse),

And verily, that is indeed a great oath, if you but knew,

That (this) is indeed an honourable recital (the Noble Qur'aan)."

[al-Waaqi'ah 56:57-77]

"So glorify Allaah, when you come up to the evening [i.e., offer the Maghrib (sunset) and `Isha' (night) prayers], and when you enter the morning [i.e., offer the Fajr (morning) prayers].

And His is all the praise and thanks in the heavens and the earth, and (glorify Him) in the afternoon [i.e., offer `Asr (mid-afternoon) prayer] and when you come up to the time when the day begins to decline [i.e., offer the Zuhr (mid-day) pr