Decrees of God: Qadar and Taqdīr in Islam
Etymology and Translation
- Arabic: قدر (Qadar) or تقدير (Taqdīr)
- Turkish: Kader or Takdir
The term Qadar (قدر) and its synonym Taqdīr (تقدير) derive from the root letters Q-D-R which connote measuring, estimating, and determining. In Islamic context, these terms refer to God’s divine decree or predestination.
The Concept of Qadar and Taqdīr
Understanding Qadar
Qadar signifies God’s eternal control and predestination of all matters in the universe. It embodies several layers of meaning:
- Divine Knowledge: God’s omniscience, where He knows everything that has happened and will happen.
- Writing: The belief that all events are written in the preserved tablet (al-Lawh al-Mahfuz).
- Will and Permission: Everything happens by Divine Will and nothing happens without His permission.
- Creation: God creates everything, including the actions of humans.
Understanding Taqdīr
Taqdīr, often used interchangeably with Qadar, adds nuances of divine preordainment and specific measure that God’s decrees take.
Theological Underpinnings
Free Will vs. Predestination
One of the key theological discussions involves reconciling human free will with divine predestination:
- Ash’ariyya and Maturidiyya: These schools argue that human free will exists within the domain of Allah’s overarching predestination.
- Mu’tazila: Advocates of human free will, stressing human responsibility for actions.
Implications in Daily Life
Faith and Trust
Belief in Qadar instills trust in God, encourages patience during trials, and gratitude during prosperity. It forms part of one’s Iman (faith).
Ethical and Legal Dimensions
Muslim jurisprudence considers belief in divine decree crucial in shaping ethical behavior and legal rulings. Acknowledging God’s control can foster humility and deter wrongful arrogance.
Recommended Reading
- “Divine Will and Predestination: The Qur’anic Doctrine of al-Qadar” by Norman Calder
- “The Creed of Imam al-Tahawi”: Annotated by Hamza Yusuf, which provides insights into classical Islamic theology.
- “Kader - Fate and Destiny in Islamic Thought” by Eric Winkel.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Understanding Qadar and Taqdīr can profoundly shape a Muslim’s worldview, emphasizing the perfection and omniscience of God’s planning, while also encouraging an ethical life in adherence to divine will. This dual belief in divine decree and human effort underscores the balanced path that Islam prescribes for navigating life’s uncertainties.
Belief in the decrees of God forms a pillar of faith in Islam, intricately linking theological doctrines to daily practices and inner spirituality.
