The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Adam and Moses debated with each other and Moses said, 'You are Adam who turned out your offspring from Paradise.' Adam said, "You are Moses whom Allah chose for His Message and for His direct talk, yet you blame me for a matter which had been ordained for me even before my creation?' Thus Adam overcame Moses."
Oneness, Uniqueness of Allah (Tawheed)
Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 7515
Theological Significance
This profound dialogue between two great prophets establishes the principle of divine decree (al-Qadr) as fundamental to Tawheed. Adam's response demonstrates that human actions occur within Allah's preordained knowledge and will, thus preserving divine omnipotence while maintaining human responsibility.
Moses represents the perspective of divine law and justice, while Adam embodies the reality of divine predestination. Their debate illustrates how both concepts coexist within Islamic theology without contradiction.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam al-Qurtubi explains that Adam's victory in this debate stems from his recognition that his exit from Paradise was decreed by Allah before creation. This affirms that all events unfold according to Allah's eternal knowledge and will.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that Moses' position reflects his role as lawgiver, emphasizing human accountability, while Adam's response completes the theological picture by acknowledging divine preordination.
The scholars emphasize that this hadith teaches Muslims to understand both divine decree and human responsibility as complementary aspects of faith, neither negating the other.
Practical Implications
This narration teaches humility in judgment, as even prophets may have limited perspectives. It encourages believers to consider divine wisdom in all circumstances and avoid hasty blame.
The dialogue demonstrates proper etiquette in religious discourse - respectful yet firm in presenting evidence, ultimately seeking truth rather than victory.