Qudrah (قدرة) in Islam
Definition
Qudrah (قدرة) – Qudrah refers to the concept of power or omnipotence, specifically in the context of one of the divine attributes of God in Islamic theology. It emphasizes God’s absolute and unrestricted power over all things.
Etymology
The term Qudrah (قدرة) comes from the root word ق د ر (q-d-r), which pertains to power, ability, and capacity in classical Arabic. The noun Qudrah signifies “power” or “ability.”
- Arabic: قدرة
- Turkish: Kudret
Theological Implications
In Islamic theology, Qudrah is an essential attribute of Allah. It signifies that Allah is all-powerful, possessing the absolute ability to enact His will without limitation. This omnipotence ensures that all events, whether in the natural world or beyond human comprehension, fall under His sovereign control.
The attribute of Qudrah conveys several important theological points:
- Creation and Control: Allah’s power is evident in the creation of the universe and in the ongoing control and maintenance of all existence.
- Miracles and Prophethood: The concept explains the occurrence of miracles and the transmission of divine messages through prophets.
- Moral and Ethical Authority: As an omnipotent being, Allah exercises ultimate moral and ethical authority, providing the basis for divine law and guidance.
Cultural References
Al-Qudratu ʾl-ḥalwāʾ – This phrase translates to “The sweet cake of God,” referring to the manna provided to the Israelites. While the word Qudrah itself is not found in the Qur’an, the concept is implicitly significant throughout Islamic scripture and tradition.
Further Studies
To deepen your understanding of Qudrah and its significance in Islam, consider the following scholarly works:
- “The Divine Attributes” by William C. Chittick
- “God and His Attributes” by Sayyid Mujtaba Musawi Lari
- “A Theology of Divine Omnipotence” by Richard Swinburne
Takeaways
- Qudrah emphasizes the omnipotence of Allah, highlighting His supreme power and authority.
- Although the term Qudrah is not explicit in the Qur’an, the concept is central to understanding Allah’s nature and capabilities.
- Qudrah is foundational to Islamic concepts of creation, divine intervention, and moral governance.
Conclusion
Qudrah underscores the foundational belief in Allah’s omnipotence within Islamic theology. Recognizing and understanding this attribute can provide profound insights into the nature of God and His interaction with the world. By exploring Qudrah, one gains a deeper appreciation of the divine power that sustains and governs all existence.
