Diversity in Islam a Sign of Allah’s Greatness

Differences Are a Sign of Allah’s Wisdom

Allah reminds us in the Quran that diversity is not a mistake, but a deliberate part of His creation. It is meant to foster understanding and unity among people.

This verse highlights that our differences are meant to bring us closer, not divide us. Our value is not based on race, wealth, or nationality, but rather on taqwa (God-consciousness).

The Blessing of Diversity in Language, Culture, and Appearance

Allah could have created all of humanity the same, but instead, He made us diverse in our languages, traditions, and physical features. This is a reflection of His divine power:

Each language carries history, meaning, and expression, enabling different cultures to develop unique customs, foods, and ways of life. Our physical differences—such as skin colour and features—remind us of Allah’s creative ability and the richness of human diversity.

Instead of using these differences to create division, Islam encourages us to appreciate and celebrate them.

The Story of Prophet Dawud and Prophet Sulaiman’s Different Opinions

Differences in thought and perspective are not a weakness—they allow for growth, wisdom, and new solutions. A beautiful example of this is found in the story of Prophet Dawud (David) and his son, Prophet Sulaiman (Solomon) (peace be upon them).

The Quran mentions their story:

The story refers to a legal dispute where a man's sheep entered a farmer’s field at night and ate his crops. Prophet Dawud (AS) ruled that the sheep should be given to the farmer as compensation. However, his son Sulaiman (AS) had a different opinion—he suggested that the farmer keep the sheep temporarily, benefit from their milk and wool, while the owner of the sheep works on restoring the crops. Once the crops were fully grown, both would return to their original owners.

Allah approved Sulaiman’s (AS) ruling but still praised both Dawud (AS) and Sulaiman (AS) for their wisdom. This teaches us that having different perspectives is not a flaw, but a strength—as long as they are approached with sincerity and wisdom.

The Four Imams and the Wisdom in Their Differences

Islamic scholarship has always embraced differences of opinion, and one of the greatest examples of this is the four major Imams of Islamic jurisprudence—Imam Abu Hanifa, Imam Malik, Imam Al-Shafi’i, and Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal. These scholars, despite having differences in interpretation, were connected through their chains of knowledge.

Some of them studied under one another—Imam Al-Shafi’i was a student of Imam Malik, and Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal was a student of Imam Al-Shafi’i. Although they had differing approaches, they respected one another deeply and dedicated their lives to preserving and explaining Islamic teachings.

Each of them derived their rulings based on the Quran, Sunnah, and scholarly reasoning, sometimes arriving at different conclusions due to factors such as:

• Variations in hadith availability at their time

• Different methodologies in interpreting texts

• Contextual differences in their regions

Even though their legal schools (madhabs) have differences, the essence of their teachings is the same—to guide Muslims towards living a righteous life in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah.

Unfortunately, some people argue and divide over these differences, when in reality, the scholars respected and learned from one another. Imam Al-Shafi’i once said:

"My opinion is correct but could be wrong, and the opinion of others is wrong but could be correct."

This humility and willingness to accept differences should inspire us to focus on unity rather than division. Instead of fighting over differences, we should learn from one another, appreciate scholarly wisdom, and uphold the values of respect and understanding.

Why Differences Are a Mercy, Not a Problem

1. Differences Encourage Learning and Growth

   • Every culture and nation has something valuable to teach.

   • Different perspectives allow for better solutions to problems.

2. Diversity Creates Beauty and Strength

   • A garden is beautiful because it has many different flowers, not just one.

   • Humanity is stronger when different groups work together rather than competing against each other.

3. Respecting Differences Brings Unity

   • Islam does not call for erasing differences, but rather for respecting them.

   • As long as Islamic principles are followed, different approaches can coexist peacefully.

Conclusion

Islam teaches us that diversity is not a weakness but a sign of Allah’s wisdom and power. Our differences in culture, language, and opinions should not divide us but instead bring us closer in understanding and appreciation. Just as the four great Imams respected their scholarly differences, we too should embrace diversity with an open heart.

The Prophets of the past, including Dawud (AS) and Sulaiman (AS), demonstrated that differing viewpoints can lead to greater wisdom. Similarly, the diverse backgrounds of Muslims—whether in race, traditions, or schools of thought—are a source of strength, not division.

True unity in Islam is not about erasing differences, but about coming together despite them. Our worth in the sight of Allah is not in our nationality, wealth, or status, but in our righteousness. By embracing diversity with humility and respect, we fulfil the purpose Allah has set for us—to learn from one another and grow together in faith.

May Allah grant us the wisdom to appreciate and respect the beauty of differences, and unite our hearts in sincerity and understanding. Ameen.