Can you explain the concept of predestination (qadar) in Islam and the debates surrounding it?

In Islam, the concept of predestination, also known as qadar, is a fundamental belief. It is the belief that everything that happens in the universe, from the tiniest details to the significant events, is predetermined by Allah, the Creator.

According to Islamic teachings, Allah is all-knowing and all-powerful. He has knowledge of everything, including the past, present, and future. This means that Allah has already ordained everything that will happen. However, this belief does not negate the concept of accountability and free will. Islam emphasizes that humans have been granted free will to make choices and decisions.

The debate surrounding predestination in Islam revolves around the question of how human free will relates to divine predestination. Scholars throughout Islamic history have held different opinions on this matter, resulting in various theological schools of thought.

1. Predestination and human free will: Some scholars believe that everything is predestined and that humans have no free will. They argue that, since Allah is all-knowing, He already knows the actions people will choose. Others argue that this would make humans mere puppets with no moral responsibility for their actions.

2. Predestination and limited free will: Another group of scholars believes in limited free will. They argue that while some events are predestined, humans have the ability to make choices within certain limits. They believe that Allah has given humans a certain degree of freedom, but within the boundaries set by divine decree.

3. Predestination and complete free will: Some scholars assert that humans have complete free will and that predestination is limited to the knowledge that Allah possesses. They believe that Allah's knowledge of people's choices does not determine those choices; it merely reflects the choices people will make using their free will.

4. Middle ground: Some scholars take a middle approach, suggesting that human free will and divine predestination coexist. They argue that humans have the ability to make choices, but Allah, being all-knowing, knows in advance what choices they will make. In this view, predestination and free will are not seen as mutually exclusive.

It's important to remember that while debates on predestination are common among scholars, Muslims are ultimately encouraged to focus on living a righteous life, making good choices, and trusting in Allah's wisdom. The concept of predestination is seen as a way to surrender to Allah's will and accept the tests and trials of life with patience and trust in His plan.