This is according to Ayatollah Seyyed Mostafa Mohaghegh Damad who made the remarks in a session dedicated to the interpretation of Surah Ash-Shu’ara. Here is a summary of what he said:
Hazrat Ibrahim challenged his people who worshiped idols. He asked them: do your gods hear you when you call them? If they do, why don’t they answer you and help you? If you sin, can they punish you? Their answer showed that they had not thought deeply about their faith. “They replied: ‘No, but we found our fathers doing so.’” (Surah Ash-Shu’ara, verse 74)
However, worship is not a matter of imitation. It is a matter of choice and reflection. One should choose one’s god based on reason and evidence.
Then the prophet told them about their mistake, noting that there should be love between god and worshipper: “people whom He loves and who love Him.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, verse 5)
He then described God in simple terms that anyone could understand. He said God has these qualities that none of your idols have. First, he created me: “who created me, it is He who guides me,” (Surah Ash-Shu’ara, verse 78)
I did not exist before and he brought me into being. Who else can do that? He also guides me on the right path. He has set a purpose for me and He shows me the way to fulfill it. Can your idols guide you? No, they cannot.
Second, he feeds me: “and He gives me to eat and drink.” (Surah Ash-Shu’ara, verse 79) I may use my hand to eat and drink, but who provides me with food and water? Who makes the crops grow and the rainfall?
Third, “who, when I am sick, heals me.” (Surah Ash-Shu’ara, verse 80) I may use medicine and doctors, but who cures me? Who gives health and life?
Fourth, “who makes me to die and then revives me.” (Surah Ash-Shu’ara, verse 81) Who has power over death and resurrection? Can your idols do that? No, they cannot.
Fifth, He forgives me when I repent. I make mistakes, but I ask Him to pardon me and He accepts my repentance as He is merciful and forgiving: “and whom I am eager shall forgive me my sins on the Day of Recompense.” (Surah Ash-Shu’ara, verse 82)
Ibrahim then prayed to God and taught us how to pray. He said worshippers should first praise God and mentioned his attributes. Ibrahim’s first request from God is this: “My Lord, give me judgment, and join me with the righteous.” (Surah Ash-Shu’ara, verse 83)
He asks God to present him judgment and wisdom. This is a divine wisdom that is different from those acquired through research and studies.
source: iqna
