Islam and Human Rights — Page 30
Isl am and Hum an R ights 30 and Besought of All. He begets not, nor is He begotten! There is none like unto Him” (112:2-5). This concept is reinforced by various arguments. For instance: “Allah has not taken unto Himself any son, nor is there any other god along with Him; in that case, each god would have taken away what he had created, and some of them would surely have dominated over others. Glorify, then, Allah above all that which they attribute to Him. Knower of the unseen and of the seen; exalted is He, there fore, above all that which they associate with Him” (23:92-93). Mythology furnishes ample illustration of the confusion and chaos that would prevail if there were a plurality of gods. There would be an end to all certainty and order and consequently to all beneficence. Man and the universe, instead of being manifestations of Divine beneficence, would present a spectacle of capricious and cruel sport, and in stead of progressing constantly towards perfection, would be speedily destroyed. “If there had been in the heavens and the earth other gods besides Allah, then surely the twain would have come to ruin. Glorified then be Allah, the Lord of Power, above what they attribute” (21:23). It follows that all adoration, glorification, worship and obedience are due to God alone. He is the object of the heart’s deepest love and devotion. To seek nearness