Beyond human agency: Recognizing Allah’s sovereignty in creation (Cont’d)

By Yusuf Bulafu
The passage begins with an evocative question, “Have you seen that which you emit -alluding to the sperm-?” (56:58), drawing attention to the act of procreation—an act that humanity often views as entirely within its control. Through medical advancements and planning, humans may feel empowered to dictate the circumstances of conception and birth. However, the following verse dismantles this notion: “Is it you who creates it, or are We the Creator?” (56:59).
Procreation, a fundamental aspect of human existence, serves as a vivid example of the illusion of control. While humans may engage in the physical act of procreation, the actual creation of life—the fundamental aspects of conception, the fusion of cells, foetal development, and the emergence of a soul, and the intricate processes of development—are entirely beyond human capability.
Even the emotions that compel intimacy—love, attraction, and desire—are divinely placed. Without these, the continuation of human life would not be possible. Without these inherent feelings, humanity would struggle to perpetuate itself. These emotions are a testament to Allah’s wisdom and ultimate control, for He places within humans the instincts necessary to fulfill their role as stewards on earth.
Here, the Quran shifts the perspective from human agency to divine authorship. Despite medical advancements, such as in vitro fertilization and genetic engineering, no scientific endeavour can guarantee conception, determine a child’s soul, or prevent every miscarriage, let alone the successful development of a healthy child.

This highlights the divine control embedded in every stage of life, from conception to birth, reaffirming that human agency is merely a vessel through which Allah’s will is executed. This stark reminder exposes the illusion of control that humans often cling to in matters even as the origin of life.
From an embryological perspective, modern science can describe the stages of human development in great detail, from the zygote to the fetus. Yet, science cannot explain the metaphysical phenomenon of the soul or why some pregnancies succeed while others end in miscarriage.
This mystery shows the divine power behind the act of creation. The Quran further affirms this in Surah Al-Mu’minun: “Then We made the sperm-drop into a clinging clot, and We made the clot into a lump [of flesh], and We made [from] the lump, bones, and We covered the bones with flesh; then We developed him into another creation. So blessed is Allah, the best of creators.” (23:14).

.TO BE CONTINUED