Understanding Al-Ḥikam: Tawḥīd and Divine Will
In Al-Ḥikam al-ʿAṭāʾiyyah by Ibn ʿAṭāʾillāh al-Iskandarī, the first theme that often stands out is Tawḥīd and Divine Will. It reminds us that faith is not only about believing in Allah but also about trusting His decree in every detail of life.
Nothing Happens Without Allah’s Decree
Every moment we live is already written. Our successes, our struggles, even the smallest changes in our day — all are under the decree of Allah. This is not meant to make us passive, but rather to free us from unnecessary anxiety. When we truly accept that nothing escapes Allah’s knowledge and will, we stop fighting battles that were never ours to control.
Beware of Relying on Our Own Planning
We live in a time where planning is considered everything. Career plans, financial goals, even life checklists are often seen as measures of success. But Ibn ʿAṭāʾillāh warns us not to rely solely on our own strategies. Plans are necessary, but they are never the guarantee. The one who ties his heart to his own planning alone will face disappointment, while the one who ties his heart to Allah finds peace whether the plan works out or not.
Allah’s Will Always Comes Before Our Efforts
We often think that our effort is what produces results. Yet Al-Ḥikam reminds us that it is Allah’s will that makes effort fruitful. This doesn’t mean we should stop trying. Rather, it teaches balance: do your best, but know that the outcome is in Allah’s hands. Success is not a reward for effort alone — it is a gift from Allah.
A Reflection for Us
When we understand this theme of Tawḥīd and Divine Will, our heart softens. We stop blaming ourselves for every failure and stop taking full credit for every success. We begin to see life as a journey guided by Allah, where our role is sincerity and effort, not control.
It is in this surrender that true freedom lies.
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