It is worth mentioning here that Bada' is not specifically a Shiite application...

It is worth mentioning here that Bada' is not specifically a Shiite application; it can be traced in the Sunnite [1] Musnad Ahmad vol. 5, p. 277; Also Al-Hakim's al-Mustadrak `ala al-Sahihayn, vol. 1, p. 493, and similar others in al-Tajol Jam', vol. 5, p. 111.

writings concerning the words of the holy Prophet, (a.s), such as the following example: It appeared good to God to afflict them (with trouble.) [1] It should also be mentioned that Bada' never implies a change in Gods knowledge, for He knows, from the very beginning, the natural course mans actions will move in, as well as the influence of the factors that can change this process and cause Bada, as He has said in the Quran: He blots out and He establishes whatever he wills, and with Him is the essence (mother) of the Book 13:39 This means that at the time when Bada occurs, God actually clarifies for us what has been a clear fact to Him since eternity.

This is why Imam Sadiq, peace be upon him, says, In no event did God consider (the occurrence of) Bada' but He knew it before it took place. [2] The Philosophy of Bada If man feels he has a free hand in changing his fate, he will no doubt try to make himself a better future, and will endeavor more energetically to improve his life.

In other words, just as repentance, Tawbah, and intercession save him from hopelessness and a bleak life, Bada will fill him with happiness, giving him hope for a bright future, for it is in the light of such an insight that man knows that he can, as ordained by God, change his lot and move on to a better future and a brighter end. [1] Al-Nihayah fi Gharib al-hAdith wa al-Athar, by Madj al-Din al-Mubarak ibn Muhammad al-Jazri, vol. 1, p. 109.

[2] Usul a- Kafi, The Book al-Tawhid, chapter on Bada', tradition 9. Back Index Next Previous…