The Love of Allah: A Creator Who Embraces All of His Creation with Compassion and Forgiveness

Last week, we discussed whether Allah is a knowable, recognizable being and explored verses in which He introduces Himself. This week, let’s begin with this question: Does Allah love all His creation? Even those who do not know, recognize, or even deny Him?

According to Islam, Allah’s love encompasses all creation. His love for His creation is independent of their qualities or beliefs. However, there are individuals whose deeds please or displease Allah in particular. To better understand whom Allah is pleased with, we can look at the story of the Prophet Abraham:

One day, Prophet Abraham invited a guest to his home. When the guest told him that he was an atheist, Abraham said, “Then do not come.” But Allah later revealed to Abraham, “O Abraham, I have not withheld My love from this servant of Mine, even though he does not remember Me. How can you turn him away?” This story serves as a reminder to Abraham that Allah loves everyone, yet is especially pleased with those who strive for His favor.

What Qualities Does Allah Appreciate?

A teacher loves all their students, but they commend the diligent ones. Similarly, Allah has behaviors that He favors. Among those who please Allah the most are the ones who approach difficulties with patience and love. They see every situation as a blessing, or a test from Allah, and are content with their condition.

Our Prophet also emphasized that the most valuable acts are gratitude and contentment with one’s state. This is seen as a path toward gaining Allah’s pleasure. Those who embody this attitude are the ones who see even challenges as a “gift from Allah.”

Two Types of Faith: Belief with Knowledge and Belief by Witnessing

When discussing the levels of faith, we can consider two different approaches: the first level of faith involves approaching Allah with trust, even without deep comprehension. The second level entails belief by witnessing—seeing Allah’s presence in every event. This level of faith strengthens a person’s bond with Allah profoundly.

Prayer is an expression of this faith. For example, in the early morning prayer, when one rises to worship while everyone else is asleep, they are engaged in sincere devotion. Since prayer is essentially an act free of any intention to impress or gain recognition, it is valued as a heartfelt form of worship.

The Five Pillars of Islam and the Concept of Ihsan

One day, the angel Gabriel came to ask questions to our Prophet. After asking about the pillars of Islam and the articles of faith, he inquired, “What is ihsan?” The Prophet replied, “Ihsan is to live with the awareness that even if you cannot see Allah, know that He sees you.” This means realizing that we are always under Allah’s watch, striving in every action to gain His approval.

The Power of Prayer and Turning to Allah

Our Prophet stated that prayer is the most exalted form of worship. Through prayer, a person acknowledges their dependence on Allah and seeks refuge in Him. We express the desires and wishes Allah has placed within us back to Him. In this way, prayer serves as a means to strengthen our connection with Allah.

Living a Truly Faithful Life and the Importance of Sincerity

The essence of faith is to feel close to Allah and strive to earn His favor. The fact that our Prophet was called “Al-Amin” (The Trustworthy) even before his prophethood is a testament to his deep bond with Allah. His reliability reflects the trust Allah instilled in him.

Faith, Understanding, and Love: Blessings that Come with Effort

Faith is a gift that Allah bestows from eternity. However, effort is required for this blessing to manifest. Allah loves those who strive the most. In Islam, to pause is to regress; thus, continuous progress, learning, and striving with sincerity are essential.

Allah loves His creation; but beyond those who simply perform acts of worship, He is most pleased with those who make sincere efforts, devote themselves to Allah, and live their faith with integrity. May our Lord accept our prayers, efforts, and gratitude, and bless us with a faith that brings us closer to Him.

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