When confronted with the question, “How can we know Allah when He cannot be seen?” it’s natural to feel uncertain at first. Yet, our intellect and heart often comprehend unseen realities through their signs, effects, and outcomes. Just as we understand the existence of the sun on a cloudy day by observing the light it casts, the warmth it provides, and the shadows it forms, we can recognize Allah through His creations, His signs, and the wonders He manifests in the universe.
The universe is like a vast palace filled with countless signs of purpose and wisdom. Every element within it serves as a letter, a word, or a verse in the “book of creation,” reflecting the artistry of its Author. For instance, consider how seeds buried in the soil sprout into vibrant flowers, towering trees, and countless blessings during spring. This miraculous transformation is a clear indicator of a supreme power and wisdom at work. Just as we deduce the skills of an artist by examining their painting, we can know the Creator through the intricate design and harmony in the universe. Every color, every pattern, every movement speaks of His craftsmanship.
The flawless order and precision of the universe are further evidence of Allah’s existence and attributes. The physical, chemical, and biological laws governing the world reveal His power and wisdom. These laws are too finely tuned to be products of chance. For example, the sun’s precise distance from the Earth, water’s unique properties that sustain life, and the delicate balance that enables ecosystems to thrive—all of these point to an intelligent Designer. Just as the structure of a machine reflects the skill of its engineer, the laws of the universe highlight the knowledge, will, and might of its Creator.
The human heart, soul, and conscience are also windows through which we can recognize Allah. Innate qualities such as justice, mercy, love, and beauty point to a higher source from which they originate. These elevated attributes and values cannot exist without a Creator who embodies absolute goodness and perfection. Additionally, the human longing for eternity, the yearning for everlasting happiness, and the deep sense of justice all direct us toward Allah. These universal traits within us are imprints of the One who created us.
The most direct and reliable way to know Allah is through the prophets and the divine revelations they bring. If the universe is a “book of art,” prophets are the “interpreters” of its meanings. They deliver the Creator’s messages and explain His will, attributes, and the purpose of creation. Through their teachings, humans are guided toward understanding their Creator more deeply. Prophets make the abstract concrete, bringing clarity to the mysteries of existence and providing a framework for living a meaningful life.
Life itself provides countless moments that help us recognize Allah. Trials, blessings, challenges, and joys all serve as reminders of His presence. For instance, relief after hardship, the beauty of a sunrise following a long night, or the unexpected fulfillment of heartfelt prayers—all these experiences stir within us an awareness of a power beyond our control. Each event in life, whether joyful or sorrowful, speaks a language that points us back to Allah.
Knowing Allah does not require physical sight; it is about recognizing His presence through the signs He has placed in creation, the moral compass within our hearts, and the guidance He has sent through His prophets. Every element in existence, every experience in life, reflects His names and attributes. By reflecting on these signs, we can come to know and love Allah, discovering the ultimate meaning of our existence and fulfilling the deepest needs of our souls.
