Theology and Creed

There is nothing wrong with turning to others for help with our ordinary worldly needs, provided we understand that they are means through which things come about and are themselves in need of God. Asking them for help must not become worship or supplication; we should recognise the limits of their abilities and not regard them as healers in their own right.

Human resolve is a decision and a pledge of the heart, whose fulfilment depends on God’s will and decree. God’s all-prevailing power means that all created beings are utterly subject to Him. No resolve can be carried through without God’s permission; any resolve made without awareness of this truth is a sign of presumption.

The Qur’an describes God as al-Wakīl—the Creator and Sustainer of all things. Nothing in the universe can have an effect except by His permission and will. God’s being al-Wakīl means that created beings’ intentions and actions can come to fruition only through Him. Everything in existence depends on Him in every aspect of its being; without Him, nothing could come to be.

The “I,” like every other being, has need of none but God Most High. Though the Wise Creator has woven bonds and connections among His creatures, drawing them together, the “I,” free of every attachment, knows only Him—and none other.

Prayer has a noble purpose, profound wisdom, and immense blessings and benefits. The very gift of prayer, bestowed by the Creator upon His creation, is an immeasurable good in itself. Even when a prayer is not answered, the servant may receive something greater than what they asked for: contentment with and submission to God’s decree.

Fear of people who wield power and wealth exists by God’s permission and will; nothing happens without His permission. We should look to the ultimate source of power—God Himself. All those who possess power hold it in trust. True and genuine fear belongs to God alone, as the Quran also makes clear.