1.3 The meaning and importance of belief in the creativity of Allah
Creativity: The action of creating the universe by Allah
Iman: Faith in Allah
Muslims believe that Allah created the universe and keeps it going. Allah creates life on earth, with all its varied forms,
all the different creatures who share the earth with us and all the laws that control the way we live. All life comes from
Allah.
Muslims do not accept the idea that the universe came into being by chance for they believe it was created by Allah
for a purpose. Science teaches us how the world works and for Muslims, this means that they are discovering new
things about the creativity of Allah.
In the end, no one can be certain that the evidence proves that Allah did, or did not create the universe. For Muslims,
this is a matter of faith (iman). This means that they trust Allah created the universe, and they try to live their lives in
such a way that they show that this is their belief. Most Muslims will base their beliefs not on any scientific proof, but
on teaching from the Qur’an, although many believe that science supports Qur’anic teachings.
‘Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds.’ (Surah 1:2)
Why is the belief in the creativity of Allah important for Muslims?
1. It means that the universe and all human life are under the control of Allah. It is Allah who determines what will
happen, not human beings. It is Allah who has the power to control everything. The power of Allah as the creator is so
much greater than that of His creation.
2. It means that Muslims are able to recognise that the order and beauty of life come from Allah. They are able to see
the world as a place where Allah is in control and therefore they have nothing to fear from it, even if they do not
always understand everything about it. There is nothing beyond the control of Allah.
3. It means that all life belongs to Allah. Because Allah is the source of life, life itself is precious and is given to human
beings as a gift. Indeed life is the most precious gift of all. Human beings must therefore treat all life with care.
4. Although scientists have discovered many things about how the universe works, human knowledge is limited and
can never understand all the wishes and purposes of Allah. Human beings are part of the creation of Allah and are
therefore limited in their view of things, especially as their thoughts are confined to the world of time and space. Allah,
whose power is not limited, is not confined to the world of time and space.
Exam Question:
Do you think Allah created the universe? Give two reasons for your point of view.
Yes:
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The Qur’an teaches Muslims that Allah is the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds.
The universe is so complex that it must have been designed. The only being powerful enough to design the
universe is God and so Allah must exist.
The universe has a cause and didn’t come into being by on its own. A
very powerful force must have caused the universe. Allah is omnipotent
and cased the universe to exist.
No:
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(4)
Why should we assume that Allah is the only possible cause of the
universe? If indeed it was God who caused the universe to exist, then
who or what caused God to exist?
Scientists have developed the big bang theory which states that the
universe began randomly from a single point over 13 billion years ago
when energy was transformed into matter. Therefore, atheists reject the
idea that the universe emerged as a result of the activity of a creator
God.