There was an argument between Adam and Moses (peace be upon both of them) in the presence of their Lord. Adam came the better of Moses. Moses said: Are you that Adam whom Allah created with His Hand and breathed into himHis sprit, and commanded angels to fall in prostration before him and He made you live in Paradise with comfort and ease. Then you caused the people to get down to the earth because of your lapse. Adam said: Are you that Moses whom Allah selected for His Messengership and for His conversation with him and conferred upon you the tablets, in which everything was clearly explained and granted you the audience in order to have confidential talk with you. What is your opinion, how long Torah would haye been written before I was created? Moses said: Forty years before. Adam said: Did you not see these words: Adam committed an error and he was enticed to (do so). He (Moses) said: Yes. Whereupon, he (Adam) said: Do you then blame me for an act which Allah had ordained for me forty years before He created me? Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: This is how Adam came the better of Moses.
The Book of Destiny - Sahih Muslim 2652c
This narration from Sahih Muslim presents a profound theological discourse between Prophet Adam and Prophet Moses (peace be upon them) concerning divine decree (al-Qadr). The hadith establishes the principle that Allah's preordained knowledge encompasses all events before their occurrence in temporal reality.
The Nature of the Debate
Moses initially presents what appears to be a compelling argument based on apparent causality - Adam's action directly resulted in humanity's descent from Paradise. This represents the perspective of divine law (shari'ah) which holds individuals accountable for their actions.
Adam's response introduces the dimension of divine preordainment (qadā' wa qadar), demonstrating that his action was encompassed within Allah's eternal knowledge forty years before his creation. This does not negate responsibility but situates it within the broader framework of divine wisdom.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars explain that Adam's "victory" in the debate stems from his demonstration that Allah's knowledge encompasses all matters before their creation. This hadith confirms the orthodox Sunni position regarding divine decree - that Allah's knowledge is eternal and comprehensive, while human beings possess genuine choice and accountability.
The incident illustrates the compatibility between divine foreknowledge and human responsibility. While Allah knew Adam would err, Adam still exercised his will and was held accountable, yet ultimately forgiven through repentance.
Theological Implications
This narration serves as a definitive proof for the reality of divine decree in Islamic creed. It teaches that believers must maintain balance - acknowledging Allah's comprehensive knowledge while fulfilling their religious obligations and avoiding either fatalism or the denial of divine decree.
The dialogue exemplifies proper conduct in religious discourse - respectful, evidence-based, and ultimately seeking truth rather than mere victory in argumentation.