On the Questioning of the Angels

The angels' inquiry, as narrated in the verse, "Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?", has been a focal point for exegetical discussions, particularly in Tafsir al-Tasnim by Ayatollah Jawadi Amuli. This question, far from being an objection or expression of pride, is a reflection of their limited knowledge and genuine curiosity regarding the wisdom behind the divine plan to appoint Adam as vicegerent on earth.

Ayatollah Jawadi Amuli elucidates that the angels' inquiry arises not from arrogance, as seen in the example of the Children of Israel's question about Saul's leadership ("How can he have kingship over us while we are more worthy of kingship than him, and he has not been given any measure of wealth?"), but rather resembles the inquisitiveness of Moses when he questioned Khidr. Their concern stems from their understanding of earthly beings. They knew that Adam, being created from matter, would be susceptible to the faculties of anger and desire, which, in turn, could lead to corruption and bloodshed. Their question sought to reconcile this understanding with God's wisdom in appointing Adam as vicegerent.

The angels' reasoning was based on their perception of humanity's inherent tendencies and their own role as beings who already glorify and sanctify God. From their perspective, appointing man seemed unnecessary, as they believed the purpose of glorification and sanctification was already being fulfilled. Thus, they could not comprehend the divine wisdom in entrusting this profound responsibility to a being prone to moral and physical failings. This sentiment was not a denial of God's decision but a quest for clarity about its purpose.

Ayatollah Jawadi Amuli highlights that the angels' acknowledgment of God's attributes of omniscience and wisdom, encapsulated in their statement, "Indeed, You are the All-Knowing, the All-Wise," indicates their acceptance of divine wisdom, even when they could not grasp its full implications. Their question was an acknowledgment of their own limitations and an affirmation of God's ultimate authority and knowledge.

The Tafsir al-Tasnim further clarifies that the angels' query does not contradict their infallibility, as they act solely with God's permission. The Qur'an emphasizes this in verses such as "They do not precede Him in word, and they act by His command" (21:27). This indicates that their speech, including this inquiry, aligns with divine will and serves a purpose in the broader context of the story of Adam.

Theological Reflections:

Ayatollah Jawadi Amuli points out that the concept of vicegerency involves a profound relationship between the vicegerent and the One appointing him. The vicegerent must reflect divine attributes, such as knowledge and wisdom, to represent God effectively. This expectation led the angels to question how an earthly being, subject to material limitations, could fulfill such a role.

The Tafsir also explores the juxtaposition between human knowledge and divine knowledge. Human understanding, characterized by gradual acquisition and inherent limitations, contrasts starkly with God's infinite knowledge. The angels, aware of this disparity, saw potential for human fallibility as a source of corruption and conflict. Nevertheless, God's response, "Indeed, I know that which you do not know," underscores that divine wisdom encompasses dimensions beyond angelic comprehension.

Implications for Humanity:

Through this dialogue, the Qur'an highlights the potential for humanity to rise above its earthly constraints and reflect divine attributes, fulfilling the role of vicegerency. Adam's knowledge of the names, which the angels could not comprehend, demonstrated humanity's unique capacity for learning and embodying divine wisdom. This capacity justifies the appointment of Adam as vicegerent and sets a precedent for human beings to strive toward their potential as God's representatives on earth.

Ultimately, the story of the angels' question emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's limitations and submitting to divine wisdom. Their inquiry serves as a reminder that even the most exalted beings must rely on God's infinite knowledge and accept His decisions with humility and trust. As Ayatollah Jawadi Amuli's Tafsir al-Tasnim articulates, the angels' questioning, far from being a challenge to God's authority, is an expression of their devotion and a testament to the profound depth of divine wisdom that surpasses all understanding.

Reference

Tafsir al-Tasnim (Verse 2:30)