Allah's Messenger, explain our religion to us (in a way) as if we have been created just now. Whosoever deeds we do today, is it because of the fact that-the pens have dried (after recording them) and the destitiles have began to operate or these have effects in future? Thereupon he said: The pens have dried tmd destinies have begun to operate. (Suraqa b. Malik) said: If it Is so, then what is the use of doing good deeds? Zuhair said: Then Abu Zubair said something but I could not understand that and I said. What did he say? Thereupon he said: Act, for everyone is facilitated what he intends to do.
The Book of Destiny - Sahih Muslim 2648a
This profound hadith from Sahih Muslim addresses the fundamental Islamic doctrine of divine decree (al-qadr) and human responsibility. The questioner seeks clarification about whether human actions are predetermined or if they have genuine efficacy in shaping future outcomes.
The Finality of Divine Recording
The Prophet's response "The pens have dried and destinies have begun to operate" confirms that Allah's knowledge and decree are complete and finalized. This refers to the Preserved Tablet (al-Lawh al-Mahfuz) where all matters are recorded before creation.
This does not negate human free will, but rather establishes that Allah's knowledge encompasses all that will occur, including the choices His creatures will make.
The Relationship Between Divine Decree and Human Action
Suraqa's question "If it is so, then what is the use of doing good deeds?" reflects a common misunderstanding. The Prophet's final instruction "Act, for everyone is facilitated what he intends to do" resolves this apparent contradiction.
Allah's foreknowledge does not compel human action. Rather, He knows what choices we will make freely. The divine decree operates through means, and human intention and effort are among those means.
Scholarly Commentary on Human Facilitation
The phrase "everyone is facilitated what he intends to do" means that Allah creates the appropriate circumstances and capabilities for individuals to pursue their chosen paths. One who intends good is granted the means to achieve it, while one who intends evil is allowed to pursue it.
This demonstrates the perfect justice and wisdom of Allah, who judges people based on their intentions and actions while His knowledge encompasses all outcomes.
Practical Implications for Believers
This hadith teaches Muslims to focus on their present actions and intentions rather than becoming preoccupied with the unseen decree. We are accountable for what we choose to do within the capacity Allah has given us.
The proper attitude is to strive diligently in obedience to Allah while submitting to His wisdom in all outcomes, recognizing that both our efforts and their results are ultimately within Allah's perfect knowledge and decree.