Divine Insights in Crisis: A Gaza Perspectivetle

Presented by Authentic Ilm Mission (AIM), this paper embarks on an enlightening journey to address and alleviate the burgeoning queries and doubts that arise in times of profound adversity, particularly about the divine nature of Allah, the Exalted. As we navigate through the tumultuous waters of the ongoing crisis in Gaza, a poignant question emerges in the hearts of many: How do we reconcile our Faith with the overwhelming human suffering and injustice we witness?

In this critical exploration, we confront the negative perceptions that often cloud our understanding of Allah, especially during wars and calamities. Questions like, "Where is Allah in the plight of Gaza's people?" or "Why doesn't Allah intervene in the face of clear, undisputed injustice?" are not just rhetorical expressions of despair but are reflective of a more profound crisis of Faith. These queries resonate with the agony and search for justice felt by countless individuals, particularly as they witness the suffering of innocents – women, children, and families losing their lives, homes, and sense of security.

This paper is motivated by a desire to provide answers and solace, presenting an analysis steeped in religious authenticity and understanding. It seeks to bridge the gap between earthly trials and the divine perspective, addressing the misconception that views worldly life as disjointed from the hereafter. Our exploration delves into the shift in the universal Divine System – a transition from an era of direct divine intervention to a phase where human action, guided and supported by Divine Will, becomes more prominent, especially following the revelation of the Torah and the establishment of Jihad.

Furthermore, we will illuminate the profound impact of limited knowledge about Allah’s names, attributes, and the wisdom underlying these hardships. By doing so, AIM aims to provide answers and a path to spiritual resilience and deeper understanding. This journey is about finding answers and reigniting Faith and hope in the hearts of believers, encouraging them to view their struggles through a lens of divine wisdom and purpose. Join us in this enlightening quest to understand, empathize, and find solace in the Divine Narrative during times of crisis.

Worldview Isolation:  Bridging Earth Life and the Hereafter

In navigating life's challenges, especially during times of crisis and hardship, it is imperative to expand our perspective beyond the immediate and transient nature of worldly events, connecting them with the eternal realm of the hereafter. This broader view, deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, can be a powerful antidote to developing negative perceptions about Allah. Understanding life as a testing ground, as stated in the Quran,

“ ا ل ِذ ي َخ ل َ َق ا ْل َم ْو َت َو ا ْل َح َي ا َة ِل َي ْب ُل َو ُك ْم أ َ ي ُك ْم أ َ ْح َس ُن َع َم ًلا “

"He who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best indeed"

Quran (67:2) Surat Al-Mulk,

The above verse provides a crucial context for our experiences, including suffering and trials.

The concept of Al-Qadar (Divine Predestination) is central to this understanding. It teaches us that everything, good and what we perceive as bad, happens by Allah's will. This belief is not meant to induce fatalism but to instill resilience and a sense of purpose. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) illustrated this beautifully when he said, "Amazing is the affair of the believer, certainly all of his affairs are good, and this is not for no one except the believer. If something of good/happiness befalls him, he is grateful, and that is good for him. If something of harm befalls him, he is patient, which is good for him" (Sahih Muslim).

These concepts take on a profound significance in the context of martyrdom and the expiation of sins. Martyrdom, as understood in Islam, is not just about dying in the way of Allah but also living a life dedicated to upholding truth and justice, even in the face of adversity. The Quran says,

ََُُ َُُْ ٌََْْْ َََُُْٰ

) َولا تقولوا ل َمن يقتل في َسبيل الله أم َوات ۚ َبل أح َيا ٌء َولكن لا تشعرون( ِِِِِِ

"And do not say about those who are killed in the way of Allah, 'They are dead.' Rather, they are alive, but you perceive [it] not".
Quran (2:154) Surat Al-Baqarah