Al-Qadaa' wal-Qadar - Predestination

The belief in al-Qadar (general and particular decrees) is one of the main pillars of the Islamic Faith. Most Muslims believe in this. However, a few understand what it really is.

Let us first review or explain the meaning of al-Qadar. Al-Qadar is sometimes mentioned with al-Qadaa’ in the same statement. If so then each has a distinct meaning. However, when they are mentioned separately, then either one comprises the other. So when they are stated together, then al-Qadar means that which Allaah has eternally pre-ordained (in due measure) pertaining to His creation. On the other hand, al-Qadaa' means that which Allah has decreed for His creation from existence, annihilation, or change. In this sense, al-Qadar preceeds al-Qadaa' when combined in the same sentence.  

Following the Understanding of the Salaf

The following is the translation of a lecture given by Shaykh Albaani.  The PDF version can be found here: The Understanding of the Salaf

Translated by Ahmed Abu Turaab

باب مصادر الاستدلال عند أهل السنة:
الكتاب، السنة، فهم سلف الأمة، وبيان أثر التنكب
عن منهج فهم السلف في أبواب العقيدة

Chapter
Being a Discussion of the Sources which the Ahlus-Sunnah Derive Proofs from: The Book, The Sunnah, and The Understanding of the Pious Predecessors of the UmmahAnd a Clarification of the Effect of Deviating from the Methodology of the Pious Predecessors in the Affairs of Creed