Destiny has always been a debated topic in all religions, and Islam is no exception. Muslims believe that everything happens for a reason and that every individual has a predetermined fate. Allah has already decided the fate of every human being, and it is their responsibility to accept and live accordingly.

The concept of destiny in Islam is complex and has been interpreted in different ways, but it is an integral part of Islamic beliefs.

Destiny, known as Qadr in Arabic, is one of the six pillars of faith in Islam.

It refers to the divine plan that Allah has laid out for every individual. According to Islamic belief, everything that happens in the world is the will of Allah. This means that Muslims believe that there is a divine plan for everything from the tiniest to the most significant events in life.

This belief in destiny has several implications for Muslims. It gives them great comfort and relief during tough times, knowing that everything happens for a reason and that their struggles are part of Allah's plan. It also encourages them to be content with what they have and to be grateful for the blessings that Allah has given them.

Be mindful of Allah, and you will find Him in front of you. Recognize and acknowledge Allah in times of ease and prosperity, and He will remember you in times of adversity. And know that what has passed you by [and you have failed to attain] was not going to befall you, and what has befallen you was not going to pass you by.
Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)
And you do not will except that Allah wills. Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing and Wise.
Quran 76:30
No disaster strikes except by permission of Allah. And whoever believes in Allah - He will guide his heart. And Allah is Knowing of all things.
Quran 64:11
And no soul perceives what it will earn tomorrow, and no soul perceives in what land it will die. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted
Quran 31:34

However, the concept of destiny does not mean that Muslims should sit back and do nothing.

Islam teaches that humans have free will, and they should use it to make the best choices for themselves.

Islam also teaches that humans are accountable for their actions, despite the concept of predestination. Allah has given humans the ability to choose between right and wrong, good and evil, and it is through these choices that they will be judged on the Day of Judgment. Therefore, while Allah is in control of everything that happens, humans are still responsible for their actions and will be held accountable for them. Muslims are encouraged to work hard, make good decisions, and take responsibility for their actions. They should always strive to do their best, knowing that the outcome is ultimately up to Allah.

The Islamic belief in destiny also has an impact on the way Muslims view death.

When it comes to death, Muslims believe that it is also predetermined, and that it is a natural part of the cycle of life. They believe that death is simply a transition from this life to the next, and that the soul continues to live on in the afterlife.

isn't predestination at odds with free will?

Predestination and free will are both fundamental concepts in Islam. As discussed above, the concept of predestination, or qadr, is the belief that Allah has complete control over everything that will happen in the world. This includes all events, big and small.

At the same time, Islam also recognizes the concept of free will, or ikhtiyar. This refers to the ability of human beings to make choices and decisions based on their own beliefs, values, and desires. Free will is seen as an essential part of human nature, and it is only through exercising it that people can achieve spiritual growth and closeness to Allah. Islam maintains that these two concepts are not in conflict with each other.

While Allah has knowledge of everything that will happen in the world, including the choices that people will make, He has also given human beings the ability to make their own choices. In other words, Allah's foreknowledge of events does not negate the freedom of human choice. Rather, it is through the exercise of free will that people can fulfill their destiny and achieve their ultimate purpose in life.

can a person change his/her destiny?

Humans have the ability to make choices that can affect their path towards their destiny. It is believed that through prayer, repentance, and good deeds, one can seek forgiveness and change their course towards a better destiny. Ultimately, Allah has the final say in all matters.

Nothing can change the Divine decree except dua.
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

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