Islamic Thought on Creation Concepts

The term 'Khalaqa' refers to the process of evolution and creation of all things.

'Amr' is described as a process that is related to time and involves multiple steps.

'Ja‘ala' signifies the making of new shapes and forms, as well as the changes in day and night.

'Faṭara' refers to the creation of something from pre-existing materials.

'Ansha’a' is associated with the concept of creating growth and reaching maturity.

Concepts of Creation in Islamic Thought

Khalaqa (خَلَقَ): Refers to the creation of all things, a gradual process involving fitting things into a scheme. Implies a process of evolution.
Amr (أَمْر): Represents Command, Direction, and Design. Viewed as a singular event, unrelated to time, like the blink of an eye ("wa mā Amrunā illā wāḥidah").
Ja‘ala (جَعَلَ): The act of making, involving new shapes, forms, and dispositions. Examples include the setting of the sun and moon, and the cycle of day and night.
Sawwā (سَوَّى): The act of bringing something to perfection, specifically highlighted in humanity's ability to discern right from wrong ("wa nafsin wa mā sawwāhā").
Faṭara (فَطَرَ): Creation out of nothing, without prior similarity ("Fāṭiru al-samāwāti wa al-arḍ"). Implies the creation of primeval matter.
Bada’a (بَدَأَ): Used to describe beginning the process of creation ("yabda’u al-khalqa").
Bara’a (بَرَأَ): Refers to evolution or liberation from pre-existing matter or situations ("Al-Bāri’u").
Ṣawwara (صَوَّرَ): Giving definite form or color to create something perfectly suited for its purpose ("Al-Muṣawwiru").
Ansha’a (أَنْشَأَ): The act of making something grow, increase, develop, and mature.

Explore the intricate concepts of creation in Islamic thought through the terms Khalaqa, Amr, Ja‘ala, Sawwā, Faṭara, Bada’a, and Bara’a. Each term delves into different aspects of creation, from gradual evolution to the divine command, shedding light on the Islamic understanding of existence. Test your knowledge and understanding of these significant ideas.