Why Do I Sometimes Doubt God's Justice?

The feeling of doubt regarding divine justice, especially when encountering hardships and adversities in life, is a natural and understandable human emotion. Such questions are not indicative of disbelief; rather, they can open a door to deeper contemplation of God's attributes and the grandeur of His wisdom. The Holy Quran consistently emphasizes God's absolute justice and addresses these doubts and uncertainties from the perspective of limited human understanding when confronted with the boundless greatness of God. Firstly, it is essential to understand that God Almighty is absolutely just. 'Al-Adl' (The Just) is one of His beautiful names. His justice is not merely confined to reward and punishment but extends to the entirety of creation and the management of the universe. The cosmos is built upon justice, and nothing falls outside its scope. Everything that occurs in the world, even what appears unjust from our perspective, holds a specific place and wisdom within the vast divine system, transcending our limited comprehension. We humans perceive matters from a narrow viewpoint, through our specific time and place, while God encompasses the entire tapestry of existence and knows the consequences and outcomes of every matter across time and various dimensions. This difference in perspective sometimes causes us to question divine wisdom and justice. Much like a child who is unaware of their parents' decisions made for their own good and perceives them as unfair, we too sometimes remain oblivious to the hidden wisdom behind our sufferings and problems. The Holy Quran explicitly states that this world is a place of trial and test. Our lives are a series of examinations designed for our growth, development, and the recognition of the truth of our faith. Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 155, states: 'And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.' This verse clearly indicates that difficulties and deficiencies are an inseparable part of the divine design for humanity in this world. These trials are not meant to inflict harm, but rather to purify the soul, distinguish believers from non-believers, and elevate spiritual ranks. Sufferings can expiate sins, strengthen one's patience, and bring them closer to God. Many great individuals and prophets have experienced the greatest hardships in life, and these hardships stemmed not from injustice but from their exalted status and high position in the sight of God. Another crucial point is the limitation of human knowledge and perception when compared to the boundless divine knowledge. The story of Moses and Khidr in Surah Al-Kahf is a prime example of this limitation. Prophet Moses (peace be upon him), himself a great prophet, was outwardly puzzled by Khidr's actions and perceived them as unjust: sinking a boat, killing a boy, and repairing a wall without wages. However, after Khidr's explanation, it became clear that behind each of these actions lay profound wisdom and great good, of which Moses was initially unaware. Sinking the boat was to save it from being seized by a tyrannical king; killing the boy was to prevent his pious parents from being led astray and to replace him with a righteous child; and repairing the wall was to preserve the treasure of orphans. This story teaches us that many life events, which seem evil or unjust on the surface, inwardly contain good and wisdom known only to God. We sometimes see only one piece of the puzzle and cannot comprehend the complete picture. The ultimate manifestation of divine justice occurs on the Day of Judgment. This world is a realm of action and trial, not a realm of complete reckoning. The final reckoning, complete reward, and full punishment will take place in the Hereafter. The Holy Quran states: 'And We will set up the scales of justice for the Day of Resurrection, so no soul will be wronged at all. And if there is [even] the weight of a mustard seed, We will bring it forth. And sufficient are We as an accountant.' (Al-Anbiya, verse 47). This verse illustrates that on that Day, the slightest good or bad deed, even the weight of a mustard seed, will be accounted for, and no one will be wronged in the least. Complete justice will be established there, and everyone will see the results of their deeds. Those who were oppressed in this world will receive their rights, and the oppressors will face the consequences of their actions. This divine promise brings solace to hearts suffering from injustices in this world. Furthermore, part of what we term 'injustice' might be the result of human actions and choices or societal circumstances. God has granted humans free will and choice, and the consequences of wrong choices can appear unjust. However, this too is part of divine wisdom—that humans are responsible for their actions. Although ultimately everything is under divine will and knowledge, God has granted humans the space for choice. To overcome doubt and uncertainty, it is essential to deepen our understanding of God and the universe, familiarize ourselves with the verses of the Quran, and seek refuge in prayer and patience. Focusing on gratitude for existing blessings and understanding that trials can be hidden blessings significantly helps inner peace and strengthens faith. Ultimately, by trusting in the boundless wisdom and justice of God, we can cleanse our hearts of doubts and surrender to His will, for He is All-Knowing and All-Powerful over everything and never wrongs His servants.