Before attempting to answer these questions, I propose a simple principle:
Approach them with a free and open mind, guided by reason, logic, and evidence rather than tradition, authority, or inherited beliefs.
You may consult scholars, theologians, philosophers, or anyone who claims expertise on the subject. However, no answer should be accepted merely because it comes from an authority figure. An answer should only be considered satisfactory if it is supported by evidence that meets at least one of the following standards:
• It is logically coherent and free from contradiction.
• It can be physically examined or observed.
• It can be scientifically tested, verified, or falsified.
If a claim cannot satisfy any of these criteria, then it should be regarded as a matter of faith, speculation, or personal belief rather than established knowledge.
Questions:
-
If Allah knows His own origin, why has He never revealed it? If He has no origin, how can believers distinguish between an uncreated deity and a being whose beginnings are simply unknown?
-
Why does Allah employ angels to administer affairs, deliver revelations, record deeds, and carry out various tasks? If He is all-powerful and entirely self-sufficient, what purpose is served by delegating responsibilities to intermediaries?
-
Why is Muhammad often portrayed as Allah's most beloved prophet when Noah is said to have devoted 950 years of his life to preaching and serving God's cause? By what standard is such preference determined?
-
If Allah already knows the eternal fate of every human being before they are born, what is the purpose of putting people through earthly tests? Is the test intended to reveal something to Allah, or merely to demonstrate His prior knowledge to humanity?
-
The Quran states that Allah established Himself upon the Throne after creating the heavens and the earth. Where was Allah, or in what state did He exist, before the creation of the heavens, the earth, and the Throne itself?
-
What was Allah doing before creating the universe and mankind, and what will His role be after the Day of Judgment? Will He continue governing Heaven and Hell, create new worlds and beings, or remain eternally engaged with those who inhabit the afterlife?
-
Consider the question of prayer. Muslims are encouraged to ask Allah for help, guidance, and changes in their circumstances. Yet two possibilities appear to arise:
a) Allah answers at least some prayers. If so, does this imply that events are being altered from what was already decreed in His perfect and eternal plan?
b) Allah does not alter His decree in response to prayer. If so, what practical effect do prayers have, and how should believers understand the Quranic promise: “Call upon Me; I will respond to you” (Quran 40:60)?