26. MERCY OF GOD

26. Mercy of God ~ 76 ~ At all times and in all places, the atmosphere supplies oxygen free of cost. The trees provide an abundance of fruits and flowers on a strictly unilateral basis. God’s provision of rains on such an enormous scale is a vital system on which human life rests. But this natural system of rainfall never sends a bill to man for its services. Even if man abuses the universe, it does not lose its beneficent character. This God-given model has to be followed by man here on earth. The Qur’an puts a question to people: Do they want a religion other than that established by God ... although the earth and the heavens have all submitted to Him. It must be conceded that the religion of man and the universe is but one, its greatest features being peace, mercy and magnanimity. This culture of rahmat approved by God is not limited only to human beings, but extends also to the animal world: we must be equally sympathetic to animals. The hadith gives us many guidelines on how to look after animals and treat them with fairness. These are duties laid down by God. One who is cruel to animals’ risks depriving himself of God’s mercy.