THE CREATION PLAN OF GOD — Discover Meaning

of the highest calibre are produced in unfavourable rather than in favourable situations. We learn from the Quran that man was born into an existence fraught with toil and strife (90: 4). The Quran, addressing the human race, has this to say: ‘Go down from here as enemies to each other. For a while, there is an abode for you and a provision on earth.’ (7: 24). In this world, man has no choice but to lead a life which is marred by trial and tribulation, opposition and enmity till the coming of judgement day. According to the Creation plan of God, what is of actual importance in this world is the building — not of an ideal society — but of ideal individuals. This human condition has not come about by accident. This is exactly in accordance with the divine scheme of things. God has created this world in order to select those individuals who are capable of inhabiting heaven. These worthy inhabitants of Paradise are invariably produced under abnormal rather than normal circumstances. Human beings, therefore, will continue to face unfavourable circumstances in order that desirable people will go on being produced for such a selection. The Quran states: Do people think that once they say: ‘We believe', they will be left alone and not be put to the test? We certainly tried those who have gone before them, so God will certainly distinguish between those who are truthful and those who are lying. THE QURAN 29: 2-3 In a similar vein the Quran says: Do you think that you will enter Paradise without having suffered like those who passed away before you? Affliction and hardship befell them and so shaken were they that the Messenger and the believers with him would exclaim, when will God's help come? Surely the help of God is near. THE QURAN 2: 214