The Necessity of Divine Guidance

According to the profound insights of Ayatollah Jawadi Amuli in Tafsir al-Tasnim, humanity’s ultimate purpose is to attain nearness to God, the Absolute Perfection. This journey toward divine proximity necessitates guidance that originates solely from God. Such guidance, whether rational or transmitted, is distinguished by its alignment with the divine will and its capacity to lead humanity to the ultimate truth. Any form of reasoning or evidence that does not direct towards God is merely human desire and lacks the sanctity of true guidance. As the Qur’an states: “From Me is guidance.”

Divine guidance must reach humanity in a way that ensures clarity and accessibility. It is not enough for signs or proofs to exist in isolation; they must be communicated in a manner that allows individuals to grasp and act upon them. This does not mean that every person must receive a direct personal invitation from a prophet. Rather, the guidance must be present within society in a way that is accessible to any attentive seeker. Those who investigate with reasonable effort and without undue hardship should be able to find it. In this way, divine guidance becomes a complete proof against ignorance, ensuring that no one can claim lack of access as a valid excuse for rejecting or neglecting it.

Ayatollah Jawadi Amuli emphasizes that divine guidance is broader than the teachings of the prophets and Imams (a.s.). While their words and actions embody the pinnacle of guidance, God’s care extends beyond them. For those uniquely attuned to spiritual truths, guidance also manifests through inner witnessing—an experience of divine reality that aligns with the infallible teachings of the Prophet and his Household (a.s.).

Guidance is universal and encompasses all human beings, including the prophets themselves. Prophets embody two distinct personas: their individual human selves and their legal roles as conveyors of divine law. Even in their personal capacities, they remain subject to the guidance they bring, exemplifying humility and submission to the divine message. This duality ensures that divine law is upheld not only as a set of instructions but also as a lived reality.

The inclusivity of divine guidance extends to all beings with moral responsibility, including humans and jinn. The Qur’anic phrase “there shall come to you guidance” applies universally. This demonstrates that God’s mercy and care encompass every soul capable of choice and accountability. Whether the guidance takes the form of rational evidence, transmitted scripture, or the presence of prophets and Imams, it ensures that every individual is equipped to recognize and respond to the divine call.

The Qur’an highlights that life on earth is transient, serving as a preparatory phase for the eternal Hereafter. The verse “And for you on the earth is a place of settlement and enjoyment for a time” reminds humanity that worldly existence, while providing opportunities for growth and learning, is temporary. True establishment and lasting joy belong to the Hereafter, where all creation will ultimately stand before God’s divine justice. Divine guidance ensures that humanity does not lose sight of this reality, continually calling individuals to strive for the eternal presence of God, the Absolute Truth.

Divine guidance is comprehensive, addressing not only outward actions but also the inner dimensions of the soul. This includes combating the distractions and deceptions of Satan, who constantly seeks to divert humanity from the path of light and truth. The only safeguard against such influence is continuous remembrance of God and adherence to His guidance, which protects the heart from deviation.

In conclusion, divine guidance is a profound expression of God’s mercy and wisdom. It encompasses every means necessary for humanity’s journey toward its ultimate purpose. From the teachings of prophets and Imams to the inner witnessing of spiritual truths, divine guidance equips every soul to navigate the challenges of earthly life and move toward the eternal reality of divine proximity. It is a gift that ensures no one is left without the tools needed to fulfill their highest potential, making the journey toward God accessible to all.

Reference

Tafsir al-Tasnim (Verses 2:38-39)