There was argument between Adam and Moses, and Adam came the better of Moses. Moses said to him: You are the same Adam who misled people, and caused them to get out of Paradise. Adam said: You are the same (Moses) whom Allah endowed the knowledge of everything and selected him amongst the people as His Messenger. He said: Yes. Adam then again said: Even then you blame me for an affair which had been ordained for me before I was created.
The Book of Destiny - Sahih Muslim 2652b
This narration from Sahih Muslim presents a profound dialogue between two great prophets, Adam and Moses, concerning divine decree (al-Qadr). The argument demonstrates how even prophets contemplated this complex theological matter.
Context and Significance
This hadith occurs in a section discussing divine preordainment. The exchange highlights that Adam's mistake in Paradise was part of Allah's eternal knowledge and decree, not merely a spontaneous act of disobedience.
Moses, representing the Law and responsibility, initially blames Adam for humanity's expulsion. Adam's response demonstrates superior understanding of divine destiny - that his action was written in Allah's knowledge before creation.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars explain that Adam's victory in the argument stems from his recognition that Allah's decree encompasses all affairs. While humans are accountable for their choices, these choices occur within the framework of divine knowledge and will.
Imam An-Nawawi comments that this hadith establishes the principle of balance between divine decree and human responsibility. Adam acknowledged his error but understood it within the context of Allah's eternal wisdom.
Ibn Hajr al-Asqalani notes that the dialogue teaches humility - even prophets can gain deeper understanding through scholarly exchange, and that ultimate knowledge belongs to Allah alone.
Theological Implications
This narration affirms the Sunni position on Qadr: Allah's eternal knowledge encompasses all events, while humans possess genuine choice and accountability. Adam's defense doesn't negate responsibility but places it within divine wisdom.
The exchange reminds believers to avoid harsh judgment of others, as we cannot perceive the full scope of Allah's decree in people's lives and actions.