Posted by The recent fire that erupted in Los Angeles has left the world in shock and stirred diverse reactions from various fractions of societies and communities. Natural disasters often remind us of the delicate equilibrium that governs our world—an equilibrium that, when disrupted, leads to chaos and destruction. To understand this, we turn to our innermost self, faith and science for insights into the profound balance maintained in our universe by the creator’s divine wisdom and omnipotent power.
The Balance of Creation
As an intriguing branch of knowledge, science relies on evidence and logic. It reveals that the perfection observed in nature cannot be attributed to humans but points towards a higher power—Allah and His divine wisdom that governs all creation.
Allah’s creation is marked by precision and balance. For instance, chemical compounds form when atoms bond in exact proportions; any deviation from this proportion prevents the formation of the desired compound. Similarly, certain metals conduct electricity while others provide resistance. Both are essential in their roles, any imbalance could render the system non-functional. Either the electricity will not stop if all elements conduct electricity or it will not initiate if elements are resistants. The human body, too, reflects this perfection. Sulfuric acid, which can corrode almost anything, is safely contained within the stomach, thanks to a protective mucus layer.
Yet, despite this perfection, we frequently witness disruptions in our lives; inside our bodies and universe. The question arises: why does this happen? The answer often lies in human actions that disturb the balance ordained by Allah. Allah Ta’ala proclaims in al-Quran al-Kareem:
ظَهَرَ الْفَسَادُ فِي الْبَرِّ وَالْبَحْرِ بِمَا كَسَبَتْ أَيْدِي النَّاسِ لِيُذِيقَهُم بَعْضَ الَّذِي عَمِلُوا لَعَلَّهُمْ يَرْجِعُونَ
“Discord has appeared throughout the land and sea by [reason of] what the hands of people have earned that perhaps they will return [to righteousness].” (Surah Al-Rum, 30:41)
This ayah kareemah (verse) underscores a timeless truth: human actions often disrupt the equilibrium established by Allah Ta’ala.
When discussing disruption, we often focus on environmental issues like the greenhouse effect, pollution, and the release of harmful gases. However, other forms of disruption may invite the wrath of Allah Ta’ala, such as unjustly seizing others’ assets and properties, oppressing the weak, exploiting natural resources for selfish gains, and violating the rights of others, including the poor and vulnerable. These moral and social injustices can even have grave consequences.
It is crucial to address and reflect on these issues to ensure we do not fall into these transgressions. By fostering awareness and adhering to ethical principles, we can collectively work toward harmony in society and safeguard against such disruptions.
The Los Angeles Fire: A Human-Induced Disaster?
The scientific methodology relies on tangible evidence and logical analysis. However, such catastrophic challenges compel humanity to reflect rationally, serving as a stark reminder of our vulnerability and limitations in the face of such disasters despite our possession of advanced tools and technology to combat them.
The catastrophic fire in Los Angeles is an example of such disruption. Scientists have identified the “Santa Ana” winds as a key factor in the rapid spread of the fire. Interestingly, these winds are also known as “devil winds” or “red winds,” a nomenclature highlighting humanity’s tendency to attribute blame to external factors rather than introspecting into their actions. Is it a divine justice? Allah the omnipotent, shows His signs of His control over the universe when humans think they surpassed the power of the creator.
A Call for Reflection and Action
As individuals committed to religious teachings, and for those who believe in the inherent patterns of nature, it is our responsibility to refrain from baseless conjectures and instead turn to Allah in sincere supplication. The recent fire in Los Angeles and the ongoing atrocities in Gaza both call for sincere prayers. We must ask Allah to ease the suffering of those affected by these calamities, whether natural or human-induced.
RasulAllah SA states: اذا راد الله تعالى انفاذ قضائه وقدره سلب من ذوي العقول عقولهم حتى ينفذ فيهم قضاءه وقدره
If Allah wanted to carry out His decree and destiny, He would rob those with rational minds of their minds to carry out His decree and destiny.
The above statement highlights the omnipotence of Allah and His ability to execute His divine will without any obstacles. If Allah wished, He could remove human rationality entirely to ensure the fulfilment of His decree. However, He has chosen instead to give humans rational minds, free will, and the capacity to make moral choices, thus allowing them to play a role in their destiny within the parameters of His divine plan. However, the human race must realise that he can only work within the confined area of his potential. He can’t surpass the very diminutive power of Allah. But humans often forget that and consider themselves the ultimate race of power.
This perspective emphasizes the wisdom of Allah’s creation, wherein He tests humanity by giving them autonomy and intellect. It also serves as a reminder of human limitations and Allah’s ultimate sovereignty. While humans can plan and act, Allah’s decree prevails, and His decisions are always just and purposeful, even if they are beyond human comprehension.
In conclusion, the fire in Los Angeles serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of the balance Allah has created. It is a call for humanity to reflect on its actions and strive to maintain this equilibrium. At the same time, we must acknowledge that Allah’s wisdom is beyond human comprehension. Our role is to act responsibly, offer support where we can, and raise our hands in dua for all those who are suffering, trusting in Allah’s perfect plan.
Either human-induced or natural calamities pose significant challenges for the affected individuals. Those impacted by such events require support from the global community; if direct assistance is not feasible, they at least hope for duas and goodwill. This universal sentiment of compassion and aid is emphasized across all religions.