I found some Companions of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying: Everything is by measure. And he further said: I heard Abdullah b. 'Umar as saying: There is a neasure for everything-even for incapacity and-capability.
The Book of Destiny - Sahih Muslim 2656
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This narration from the noble Companions Abdullah ibn 'Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) establishes the fundamental Islamic doctrine of divine decree (al-qadr). The statement "Everything is by measure" affirms that Allah's knowledge, will, and decree encompass all affairs of creation.
Commentary on Divine Measure
The phrase "for everything" encompasses all creation—from celestial movements to earthly affairs, from human actions to natural phenomena. Nothing occurs outside Allah's predetermined measure (qadar).
The specific mention of "incapacity and capability" demonstrates that even human abilities and disabilities are subject to divine decree. This understanding prevents arrogance in capability and despair in incapacity, directing believers to recognize all conditions as from Allah.
Scholarly Perspectives
Imam al-Nawawi explains that this hadith confirms the fourth pillar of faith: belief in divine decree. The "measure" refers to Allah's eternal knowledge and written decree in the Preserved Tablet (al-Lawh al-Mahfuz).
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this teaching balances divine decree with human responsibility. While all is predetermined, humans are still accountable for their chosen actions within their granted capability.
Practical Implications
This belief fosters contentment with Allah's distribution of provisions, talents, and circumstances. It teaches believers to strive within their means while relying on Allah's decree.
The understanding that even capability and incapacity are measured prevents feelings of superiority or inferiority, promoting humility and mutual compassion among believers.