{"_id":"681945c6d9bd14854e649765","title":"{\"ops\":[{\"insert\":\"How is the Sunni understanding of free will different than deviant sects?\\n\"}]}","question":"{\"ops\":[{\"insert\":\"I have learned that we believe in free will and predestination, but not \\\"absolute\\\" free will. What is the difference between the \\\"absolute\\\" free will described by deviant sects and the free will described by the Sunni orthodoxy?\\n\\nI want to make sure I understand this concept correctly and better understand my relationship with Allah. I ask this question not to debate or judge people, but solely to ensure my beliefs are in line with our tradition and strengthen my connection to Allah. Which texts have been translated into English that might help me better grasp this subject as I study with a teacher?\\n\"}]}","answer":"{\"ops\":[{\"insert\":\"Sunni orthodoxy upholds a balanced understanding of free will and predestination (qadr), affirming both Allah’s decree and human responsibility for actions. This approach avoids the extremes of deviant sects like the Qadariyyah and Jabariyyah, which distorted the relationship between human agency and divine will.\\n\\nThe Qadariyyah claimed that humans possess absolute free will, independent of Allah’s will or decree. They asserted that Allah has no involvement in human actions and that individuals are entirely autonomous in creating their deeds. This view contradicts the Qur'anic teaching that all actions occur by Allah’s will and knowledge, as Allah states: “And Allah has created you and what you do.” (Surah As-Saffat: 96). By denying Allah’s control over human actions, this perspective undermines His divine attribute of al-Qadir (The All-Powerful) and negates His omnipotence.\\n\\nOn the other hand, the Jabariyyah deviated by asserting that humans have no free will and are compelled to act according to Allah’s decree, like puppets without choice. This perspective negates human accountability and contradicts the Qur’an’s affirmation of human responsibility:\\n\\n\"},{\"attributes\":{\"bold\":true},\"insert\":\"“Indeed, Allah does not wrong the people at all, but it is the people who are wronging themselves.” (\"},{\"attributes\":{\"link\":\"https://quran.com/en/yunus/44\",\"bold\":true},\"insert\":\"Qur'an 10: 44\"},{\"attributes\":{\"bold\":true},\"insert\":\").\"},{\"insert\":\"\\n\\nBy denying human agency, the Jabariyyah view conflicts with Allah’s justice and wisdom in rewarding or punishing individuals for their deeds.\\n\\nSunni orthodoxy maintains a balanced position, teaching that humans possess limited free will within the framework of Allah’s divine decree. Allah knows everything that will happen and has decreed it, but this does not force humans to act in specific ways. Humans are granted the ability to choose and act, though their actions are created by Allah. For example, when a person lifts their hand, it is by their choice and Allah’s enabling of the movement. This concept, often explained as kasb (acquisition), is beautifully summarized by Imam al-Tahawi in his Aqeedah: \"},{\"attributes\":{\"italic\":true},\"insert\":\"\\\"Man’s actions are created by Allah, but earned by man.\\\"\"},{\"insert\":\"\\n\\nThis balanced understanding nurtures humility, gratitude, and accountability in one’s relationship with Allah. Recognizing Allah’s power over all things instills awe and reliance on Him. Acknowledging the ability to act as a gift from Allah deepens thankfulness. Understanding the capacity to choose motivates individuals to strive for good, avoid evil, and seek Allah’s pleasure.\\n\"}]}","tags":[{"_id":"668d9fe50b76658b4c232867","tag":"Aqeedah: Sects and Religions","count":68},{"_id":"668da0580b76658b4c2334b2","tag":"Knowledge: Aqeedah","count":38}],"createdOn":"2025-05-05T23:12:06.474Z"}