The belief in Qadar is not just an idea—it is a fundamental part of faith. In Islam, faith has six pillars, and belief in predestination is one of them. A Muslim cannot have complete faith without accepting that everything happens according to Allah’s wisdom. This belief helps people understand that life is not random or meaningless. It reminds them that Allah’s plan is perfect, even when things seem difficult or confusing.
When a person truly understands predestination in Islam, it brings peace and strength to their heart. Life is full of challenges, and not everything goes the way people expect. Sometimes, a person may work very hard for something but still not achieve it. Other times, something unexpected happens, changing their life completely.
In such moments, belief in Qadar helps a Muslim stay patient and trust Allah. Instead of feeling lost or hopeless, they remember that Allah knows what is best for them. This trust removes fear and worry about the future because they know that Allah’s plan is always good, even if they do not understand it right away.
By understanding belief in predestination in Islam, a Muslim develops a heart full of faith, patience, and trust in Allah. This belief brings them closer to Allah, helping them stay strong during hardships and grateful in times of ease.
Definition of Predestination/Qadar (Divine Decree)
In Islam, Qadar means that everything in the universe happens according to Allah’s knowledge and plan. Allah already knows what will happen in the future, and nothing takes place without His permission. This is called the Divine Decree. However, this does not mean that people have no control over their actions.
Islam teaches that humans have free will and make their own choices, but Allah’s knowledge is so perfect that He already knows what choices they will make.
Everything that happens—whether good or bad—is part of Allah’s wisdom. It has been written down in Al-Lawh al-Mahfuz (The Preserved Tablet). This record contains everything that will ever happen, from the smallest events to the biggest changes in the world.
Quranic and Hadith References About Predestination
The Quran clearly states that everything happens according to Allah’s decree. In one verse, Allah says:
“Indeed, We have created everything with Qadar (predestination).” (Surah Al-Qamar 54:49)
This verse shows that nothing is outside Allah’s control. Another verse explains:
“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.” (Surah Al-Hadid 57:22)
This means that every event is already written before it happens. Even when something bad happens, it is part of Allah’s plan, and there is wisdom behind it.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also spoke about belief in predestination in Islam. In a famous hadith, he explained that faith has six pillars, and one of them is Qadar. He said:
“You must believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and in Qadar, both good and bad.”
This hadith shows that predestination is a core belief in Islam. Without it, a Muslim’s faith is not complete.
The Four Aspects of Qadar
Belief in predestination in Islam is based on four important aspects. These aspects explain how Allah’s knowledge, power, and control work in the universe while still allowing humans to make their own choices. Understanding these aspects helps Muslims strengthen their faith and trust in Allah’s wisdom.
1. Allah’s Knowledge (Ilm)
The first and most important part of Qadar is that Allah knows everything—past, present, and future. There is nothing hidden from Him. Even before something happens, Allah already knows it. Whether it is a leaf falling from a tree, a drop of rain reaching the ground, or a person making a decision, all of it is known to Allah.
Allah’s knowledge is not like human knowledge. People learn things over time, but Allah has always known everything. He does not forget or make mistakes. His knowledge is perfect and complete. In the Quran, Allah says:
“And with Him are the keys of the unseen; none knows them except Him. And He knows what is on the land and in the sea. Not a leaf falls but that He knows it.” (Surah Al-An’am 6:59)
This means that every event in the universe, no matter how small, happens under Allah’s knowledge.
2. Writing (Kitabah)
The second aspect of belief in predestination in Islam is that Allah has recorded everything in a special book called Al-Lawh al-Mahfuz, or the Preserved Tablet. This book contains everything that has ever happened and will ever happen until the Day of Judgment.
Allah has written down the life of every person, every action they will take, and every event that will occur in the universe. This does not mean that people have no choice. Instead, it means that Allah, with His perfect knowledge, already knows what choices they will make, and He has recorded them.
The Quran mentions this in the following verse:
“Do you not know that Allah knows what is in the heaven and the earth? Indeed, it is all in a Record. Indeed, that is easy for Allah.” (Surah Al-Hadid 57:22)
Since Allah is the Creator of time, He is not limited by past, present, or future. He knows everything at once, and this knowledge has been written down long before anything happens.
3. Will (Mashi’ah)
The third part of Qadar is Allah’s Will (Mashi’ah), which means that nothing can happen unless Allah allows it. Even though people have the ability to make choices, they cannot do anything unless Allah gives them the power to do so.
For example, a person may plan to wake up early in the morning, but if Allah does not will it, something may happen that prevents them from waking up. A farmer may plant seeds, but if Allah does not send rain, the crops will not grow. This shows that while humans take action, the final result is always in Allah’s hands.
In the Quran, Allah says:
“But you cannot will unless Allah wills. Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing and Wise.” (Surah Al-Insan 76:30)
This means that people can make plans, but success or failure happens only by Allah’s permission.
4. Creation (Khalq)
The fourth aspect of belief in predestination in Islam is that Allah is the Creator of everything, including human actions. This does not mean that He forces people to do things. Instead, it means that He has given them the ability to choose, and whatever they decide to do happens because He allows it.
Allah has created humans with free will, meaning they can choose between right and wrong. However, their ability to make choices, the strength to act, and the results of their actions are all created by Allah. For example, a person decides to give charity. The thought, the action of giving, and the effect of that charity are all created by Allah.
In the Quran, Allah says:
“Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is, over all things, Disposer of affairs.” (Surah Az-Zumar 39:62)
This means that everything exists because of Allah’s creation. He gives people the power to act, but He does not force them to do good or bad. Instead, they are responsible for their own choices.
By understanding these four aspects of Qadar, a Muslim realizes that life is a balance between Allah’s knowledge, will, and creation and human effort and responsibility. This belief helps a person stay strong in faith, accept life’s challenges, and trust in Allah’s perfect plan.
Difference Between Divine Will (Mashi’ah) and Divine Knowledge (Ilm)
To understand belief in predestination in Islam, it is important to know the difference between Divine Knowledge (Ilm) and Divine Will (Mashi’ah).
- Divine Knowledge (Ilm): Allah knows everything, including the past, present, and future. His knowledge is perfect, and nothing is hidden from Him. Even before a person is born, Allah already knows what they will do in their life.
- Divine Will (Mashi’ah): Nothing happens without Allah’s permission. Even though people make their own choices, they can only act if Allah allows it. If He does not will something to happen, it will never take place.
For example, when a person decides to give charity, that is their choice. But Allah already knew they would make that decision, and He allowed it to happen. Without His permission, even the smallest action would not be possible.
This balance between human free will and Allah’s control is what makes belief in predestination in Islam so powerful. It teaches Muslims to take responsibility for their actions while also trusting in Allah’s greater plan. This belief helps them stay patient in difficult times and grateful for the blessings they receive.
Types of Qadar (Predestination)
In Islam, the belief in Qadar (predestination) is not just about everything being written by Allah. It also includes understanding that some things are fixed and cannot be changed, while others depend on a person’s actions, prayers, and efforts. This teaches Muslims that while Allah’s knowledge is perfect, humans still have a role in shaping their future through their choices.
1. Fixed (Mubram)
Some aspects of life are already decided by Allah and cannot be changed no matter what a person does. This is called Mubram Qadar, or fixed predestination. These are events that will happen at a specific time and in a specific way, and humans have no control over them.
Examples of fixed Qadar include:
- Birth: A person has no control over when, where, and to whom they are born. Allah decides this before they come into the world.
- Death: No one can escape death or delay it beyond the time Allah has written. A person’s lifespan is already decided, and when their time comes, nothing can change it.
- Major World Events: Some big events, like natural disasters or the final Day of Judgment, are part of Allah’s plan and will happen at the time He has chosen.
In the Quran, Allah says:
“When their time comes, they cannot delay it by a single moment, nor can they advance it.” (Surah Al-A’raf 7:34)
This shows that certain things in life are fixed, and no one has the power to change them. Instead of worrying about these things, a Muslim should focus on what they can control, such as their actions and choices.
2. Conditional (Mu’allaq)
Not everything in life is fixed. Some things depend on a person’s actions, prayers, and effort. This is called Mu’allaq Qadar, or conditional predestination. Allah has written these events in a way that they can change based on human decisions.
For example, a person’s health, wealth, and success in life are not completely fixed. If they work hard, make duas (supplications), and perform good deeds, Allah may bless them with more opportunities and remove difficulties from their life.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Nothing increases life except righteousness, and nothing repels fate except dua.” (Tirmidhi: 2139)
This means that while some things are already written, dua (prayer) and good deeds can change what happens in a person’s life.
Examples of conditional Qadar include:
- Wealth and Success: If a person works hard, makes honest efforts, and prays to Allah, they may receive more blessings in their earnings.
- Health and Sickness: A person’s health can improve if they take care of their body, eat well, and pray for well-being.
- Dangers and Hardships: If someone is in danger, their duas and good deeds can protect them from harm.
The Quran also mentions this idea:
“Indeed, Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:11)
This verse shows that people have the power to improve their lives through their efforts and faith.
By understanding the two types of Qadar, a Muslim learns that while some things are beyond their control, many aspects of life depend on their choices. This belief encourages people to work hard, have faith in Allah, and always seek His help through duas and good deeds.
Free Will and Human Responsibility
One of the biggest misunderstandings about belief in predestination in Islam is that people think humans have no choice in what they do. Some believe that if everything is already written by Allah, then humans are just following a script with no control over their actions. However, this is not true.
Islam teaches that while Allah knows everything, He has also given humans the ability to make their own choices. People decide what to do in their daily lives, such as whether to be kind or rude, to pray or not, and to work hard or be lazy. They are not like puppets controlled by a string. Instead, they have been given free will to make decisions, and they will be rewarded or punished based on those choices.
If humans had no control over their actions, then there would be no reason for Allah to send prophets, reveal books, or hold people accountable on the Day of Judgment. Since Islam teaches that people will be judged for their deeds, it proves that they have the power to choose between right and wrong.
How Predestination and Free Will Coexist in Islam
Many people wonder how predestination and free will can exist at the same time. If Allah already knows everything and has written it down, then how can humans still have free will? The answer lies in understanding that Allah’s knowledge does not force anyone to act in a certain way.
For example, imagine a teacher who knows their students very well. Based on their past behavior, the teacher can predict which student will study hard and which one will not. However, the teacher’s knowledge does not force the student to act that way. The student still makes their own choice.
Similarly, Allah knows everything because His knowledge is perfect, but He does not force anyone to make a specific decision.
Another way to understand this is by looking at the power of choice. When a person is hungry, they have many food options. If they choose to eat something unhealthy, they cannot blame it on Qadar because they made the decision themselves.
Qadar does not mean that a person has no responsibility—it means that whatever choice they make, Allah already knows it and allows it to happen.
Quranic Evidence Supporting Human Choice and Accountability
The Quran makes it very clear that humans have free will and will be held responsible for their actions. Allah does not force anyone to do good or bad. Instead, He has given guidance through His prophets and books, and it is up to people to follow the right path.
Allah says in the Quran:
“Whoever wills – let him believe; and whoever wills – let him disbelieve.” (Surah Al-Kahf 18:29)
This verse shows that humans have the freedom to choose their beliefs and actions. Allah does not make anyone a believer or a disbeliever by force; rather, He gives them the choice, and they must decide for themselves.
Another verse states:
“Indeed, Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:11)
This means that people have the power to improve their lives by making the right decisions. If they choose to do good, Allah will bless them, and if they choose to do wrong, they will face the consequences.
The Quran also makes it clear that people will be judged based on their deeds:
“And each person will only have what they worked for.” (Surah An-Najm 53:39)
This verse confirms that rewards and punishments are based on personal effort, not fate alone.
By understanding these points, it becomes clear that belief in predestination in Islam does not mean that humans are helpless. Instead, Qadar teaches that while Allah’s knowledge is complete, humans still have free will and must take responsibility for their choices.
Common Misconceptions About Predestination
Many people misunderstand belief in predestination in Islam and think it means that humans have no control over their actions. Some believe that if everything is already written, there is no need to work hard or make an effort.
Misunderstanding Qadar as a Reason for Inaction
Some people wrongly believe that Qadar means they do not have to try in life because everything is already decided. They may say, “If I am meant to be rich, I will be rich no matter what, so why should I work?” or “If I am meant to pass my exam, I will pass even if I don’t study.” This thinking is incorrect and goes against the teachings of Islam.
Islam teaches that while Allah knows everything, humans must still put in effort. A farmer cannot just sit and say, “If Allah wants, my crops will grow,” while refusing to plant seeds. He must first do his work, and then trust Allah for the results. Similarly, a student must study, and a worker must put in effort.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Tie your camel and trust in Allah.” (Tirmidhi: 2517)
This hadith teaches that a person must take action first and then rely on Allah. It is not enough to just have faith without effort.
The Difference Between Islamic Predestination and Fatalism
Some people confuse Islamic predestination with fatalism. Fatalism is the belief that humans have no control over their lives at all. It teaches that no matter what a person does, nothing will change. However, Islam does not support this idea.
In Islam, Qadar is about Allah’s complete knowledge and wisdom, but it does not take away human responsibility. People have choices, and their actions matter. Allah has given humans the ability to think, decide, and act.
For example, if a person chooses to steal, they cannot blame Qadar for their crime. They made the choice, and they will be held accountable for it. On the other hand, if someone works hard and becomes successful, it is because they used the ability that Allah gave them.
The Quran makes this clear:
“And that man will have nothing except what he strives for.” (Surah An-Najm 53:39)
This verse shows that a person’s effort plays an important role in their life.
The Role of Tawakkul (Trust in Allah) vs. Laziness
Another common mistake is mixing up Tawakkul (trust in Allah) with laziness. Some people think that trusting Allah means they do not have to do anything. However, Tawakkul does not mean sitting idle—it means working hard while believing that Allah controls the final result.
For example, if a sick person refuses to take medicine and says, “If Allah wills, I will be cured,” this is not Tawakkul—it is laziness. True Tawakkul is when a person takes the medicine, prays to Allah, and leaves the outcome in His hands.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was the best example of Tawakkul. He did not sit and wait for things to happen—he planned, worked hard, and made decisions while putting his trust in Allah.
The Quran also says:
“And put your trust in Allah if you are believers indeed.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:23)
This verse shows that true believers trust Allah but also take action in their lives.
By understanding these misconceptions, a Muslim learns that belief in predestination in Islam is not about sitting and waiting. Instead, it is about making the right choices, working hard, and having faith in Allah while accepting whatever He has planned.
The Impact of Belief in Qadar on a Muslim’s Life
When a person truly understands Qadar, they develop inner peace, patience, and a strong connection with Allah. This belief helps them go through life’s ups and downs with trust and gratitude.
Developing Patience in Hardships
Life is full of difficulties. Every person faces problems like sickness, loss, failure, or sadness. However, a Muslim who believes in Qadar knows that every hardship is part of Allah’s plan and has a purpose. This makes them patient and strong.
When something bad happens, a person without belief in Qadar may feel hopeless and ask, “Why is this happening to me?” But a believer understands that Allah knows what is best, even if they do not understand it at the moment. They remind themselves that everything happens for a reason, and Allah never burdens a person more than they can handle.
The Quran says:
“Indeed, Allah is with those who are patient.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:153)
This means that when a Muslim stays patient in hard times, Allah is with them, guiding and helping them.
Strengthening Faith and Reliance on Allah
When a Muslim believes in Qadar, their faith in Allah becomes stronger. They realize that Allah controls everything, so they do not feel afraid of the future. Instead of worrying too much, they trust Allah and focus on doing their best.
For example, when making important decisions like choosing a job, getting married, or moving to a new place, a Muslim believes that Allah already knows what is best for them. They do their part, pray for guidance, and then leave the result to Allah. This trust brings peace to their heart.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“If you trust in Allah as you should, He would provide for you as He provides for the birds. They go out in the morning hungry and return with full stomachs.” (Tirmidhi)
This hadith teaches that just like birds work hard to find food but rely on Allah, humans should also put in effort while trusting that Allah will take care of them.
Accepting Trials with Contentment and Gratitude
Many people feel sad or angry when things do not go as planned. They complain about life’s problems and forget the blessings they already have. But a believer in Qadar understands that both good and bad times come from Allah, and everything happens for a reason.
A Muslim knows that sometimes Allah tests them to bring them closer to Him or to purify their heart. Instead of complaining, they accept their situation with contentment and thank Allah for what they still have. Even in hard times, they remember that Allah is wise and merciful.
The Quran reminds us:
“Perhaps you dislike something, but it is good for you; and perhaps you love something, but it is bad for you. Allah knows, while you do not know.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:216)
This verse teaches that what seems bad to a person might actually be good in ways they do not understand. Allah knows the bigger picture, and a believer finds comfort in this.
By believing in Qadar, a Muslim learns to stay patient, trust Allah, and remain grateful no matter what happens. This belief brings peace to the heart and helps a person live a life full of faith and positivity.
Final Thoughts
Belief in predestination in Islam is a powerful concept that shapes a Muslim’s outlook on life. It teaches that Allah has complete knowledge and control over everything while still giving humans the ability to make choices.
Understanding Qadar helps a believer stay patient during hardships, trust Allah in all situations, and accept life’s trials with contentment and gratitude. It clears misconceptions about fate and free will, guiding a person to work hard while relying on Allah’s wisdom. When a Muslim truly embraces Qadar, they find peace in knowing that every moment—whether joyful or difficult—is part of Allah’s perfect plan.
This belief strengthens faith, encourages positive action, and fills the heart with hope, knowing that Allah always has what is best in store.
