Creation (Arabic: K͟halqah)
Definition and Etymology
Creation in Arabic is referred to as K͟halqah (خَلْقَة), deriving from the root ḵ-l-q (خ-ل-ق) which signifies the act of creating, forming, or shaping. This term captures the context of creating something from nothing, highlighting divine origination and form.
Qur’anic Allusions to Creation
The concept of Creation is extensively discussed in various Sūrahs (chapters) of the Qurʾān. These allusions serve to not only recount the events of creation but to establish the sovereignty, power, and wisdom of Allah in the Islamic worldview.
Sūrah l. 37
<p>“Of old We (God) created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them in six days, and no weariness touched Us.”</p>
This verse establishes the belief that Allah created the universe in six days without fatigue, emphasizing divine omnipotence.
Sūrah xli. 8-12
<p>“Do ye indeed disbelieve in Him who in two days created the earth? Do ye assign Him equals? The Lord of the World is He. … He completed them as seven heavens in two days, and in each heaven made known its office; and We furnished the lower heaven with lights and guardian angels. This is the disposition of the Almighty, the all-knowing one.”</p>
It describes the specific periods and stages involved in the creation process, reasserting Allah’s control over the cosmos.
Sūrah xvi. 3-4
<p>“He created the heavens and the earth to set forth his truth, high let Him be exalted above the gods they join with Him! Man hath He created out of a moist germ; yet lo! man is an open caviler.”</p>
This verse illustrates both the creation of the macrocosm (heavens and earth) and the microcosm (human beings), highlighting the latter’s tendency for argumentative behavior despite divine origination.
Sūrah xiii. 2-3
<p>“It is God who hath reared the heavens without pillars, thou canst behold; then seated Himself upon His throne, and imposed laws on the sun and moon; each travelleth to its appointed goal. He ordereth all things.”</p>
Depicts God as the sustainer, imposing cosmic laws upon celestial bodies and creating an organized universe.
Sūrah xxxv. 12
<p>“God created you of dust—then of the germs of life—then made you two sexes.”</p>
This verse underscores the stages of human creation from basic elements to complex beings.
Islamic Traditions on Creation
According to various hadiths, particularly noted in the Mishkāt (Mishkāt, xxiv. c. i. pt. 3), the order and timeline of creation events are detailed:
- Saturday: Creation of the earth.
- Sunday: Formation of the hills.
- Monday: Creation of the trees.
- Tuesday: Creation of all unpleasant things.
- Wednesday: Creation of light.
- Thursday: Creation of beasts.
- Friday: Creation of Adam, notably after the time of afternoon prayers.
Significance in Islamic Theology
The notion of K͟halqah underpins several theological themes:
- Divine Omnipotence and Omniscience: Allah’s ability to create and sustain the universe highlights his supreme power and knowledge.
- Human Role and Responsibility: Being a creation of Allah, humans have a unique role and accountability to adhere to divine guidance.
- Creation as a Sign: The natural world serves as an ongoing sign (āyah) pointing to its Sovereign Creator, inviting contemplation and faith.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “God, Nature, and the Cause: Essays on Islam and Science” by Muzaffar Iqbal
- “Islamic Theology: Traditionalism and Rationalism” by Dr. Yasin Dutton
- “The Qur’an and its Study: An In-depth Explanation of Islam’s Sacred Scripture” by Adnan Zirak
Takeaways and Conclusion
The concept of Creation (K͟halqah) in Islam provides profound insights into the nature of the universe and humanity’s place within it. It establishes foundational themes in Islamic belief regarding Allah’s unmatched ability to create and sustain, thereby inviting Muslims to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around them.
Understanding these allusions, along with the broader significance in Islamic theology, enhances one’s conception of faith and encourages a reflective interpretation of existence per the teachings of the Qurʾān.
