Q: Assalam Alaikum,
so i know in Islam it is believed that Allah guides only whom he chooses, but i am confused as to why one gets punished if Allah chooses not to guide them–i.e: make them Muslim, guide them on the straight path, and etc.
Time: Sunday February 20, 2011 at 2:22 pm
Answer: ?????? ?????? ????? ???? ???????
- Zaid asks you for directions to California. Instead Zaid goes in the opposite direction of what you told him. Would this be your fault? Refusal to use the directions as indicated causes the person to land in the wrong place. The ‘wrong place’ could include Madagascar instead Isa-lo National Park, or Arizona instead of California, Jahannam instead of Jannah, etc. This is what takes place when we do not follow ‘directions.’
- Likewise, Allah (SWT) has sent Books and messengers. He guides those that are receptive to His message. He only lets a transgressor (sinner) go towards wrong (ayah.) Refusal to tap into that which Allah (SWT) has sent causes for an individual to deviate from the Truth. A deviant person is naturally going to attract the punishment from the side of Allah (SWT.) In this worldly life the punishment would be reduced peace, greed, greater levels of anguish, etc.
- Allah is Just and presents Justice. Being Just is part of His quality. Thus, He sent laws, laws we are to follow as He chooses. Those that are receptive to His Rules gain guidance, those that refuse it are to hurt themselves.
- Negligence attracts wrath, this wrath is felt sometimes not only in this world, but in the Hereafter as well. This is why Muslims are not to take Guidance as a right but rather as an honor and privilege. In every Salah we recite: Guide us to the Straight Path. We should be in continual prayer and search for Guidance, work continually towards it while also helping others attain maximum benefit from it.
May Allah (SWT) guide you and me, Ameen.
Allah Certainly Knows Best