that lead to wretchedness; each is enabled to do that for which he was created, namely, the outcome he reaches in accordance with Allah’s all-encompassing will governing creation. Allah, glorified is He, mentions this in His Book, saying:

“They will continue to differ, except those upon whom your Lord has mercy—and for this He created them.”

As for the purpose of their creation that Allah loves and approves—corresponding to His religious will, in accordance with which they have been commanded—it is mentioned in His words:

“I did not create jinn and mankind except to worship Me.”

Allah, glorified is He, has clarified in His Book, with respect to each of the terms “words,” “command,” “will,” “permission,” “writing,” “judgment,” “decree,” “prohibition,” and similar expressions, what pertains to religion and accords with His love, approval, and legislative command, and what pertains to creation and accords with His will governing creation.

For example, concerning His command in matters of religion, He says:

“Indeed, Allah commands justice, good conduct, and giving to relatives.”

And He, exalted is He, says:

“Indeed, Allah commands you to return trusts to their rightful owners.”

There are other similar passages. Concerning His command governing creation, He says:

“When He wills a thing, His command is only to say to it, ‘Be,’ and it is.”

Likewise, He says:

“When We intend to destroy a town, We command its affluent, and they transgress within it, so the sentence against it becomes binding.”

This is according to one of the interpretations of this verse. Concerning His religious will, He says:

“Allah intends ease for you and does not intend hardship for you.”