There was an argument between Adam and Moses. Moses said: Are you that Adam whose lapse caused you to get out of Paradise? Adam said to him: Are you that Moses whom Allah selected for His Messengership, for His conversation and you blame me for an affair which had been ordained for me before I was created? This is how Adam came the better of Moses.
The Dispute Between Adam and Moses
This narration from Sahih Muslim 2652 d presents a profound theological dialogue between two great prophets, illustrating the divine wisdom behind predestination and human responsibility.
Moses' Accusation
Moses addresses Adam with the words: "Are you that Adam whose lapse caused you to get out of Paradise?" This reflects Moses' perspective from the Torah, emphasizing human accountability for actions. As the prophet who received the Law, Moses naturally focuses on the consequence of disobedience.
Moses speaks from the position of one who witnessed Allah's direct revelation and understands the gravity of transgressing divine commands.
Adam's Response
Adam counters: "Are you that Moses whom Allah selected for His Messengership, for His conversation and you blame me for an affair which had been ordained for me before I was created?" This response demonstrates Adam's deeper understanding of divine decree (qadar).
Adam acknowledges his status while pointing to the pre-eternal knowledge and decree of Allah. His argument highlights that what occurred was within Allah's perfect wisdom and knowledge, written in the Preserved Tablet before creation.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam al-Nawawi explains that Adam's victory in this debate stems from his recognition that while humans are accountable for their actions, everything occurs by Allah's will and knowledge. This doesn't negate responsibility but places it within the context of divine wisdom.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this hadith teaches us about the balance between divine decree and human choice. Adam's mistake was real, but it was also part of Allah's greater plan for humanity's earthly experience.
The scholars emphasize that both perspectives contain truth: Moses represents the reality of accountability, while Adam represents the reality of divine decree. The reconciliation lies in understanding that Allah's knowledge encompasses all things before they occur.
Lessons for Believers
This dialogue teaches humility in judging others, as we cannot know what Allah has decreed for each person. It also encourages trust in Allah's wisdom, even when we face difficulties or make mistakes.
The ultimate lesson is that while we are responsible for our choices, we must always remember that everything happens according to Allah's perfect knowledge and will, and He turns our mistakes into opportunities for growth and repentance.