Tsunami and God

Since the tsunami occurred, there seems to be three main opinions regarding this catastrophe. The first opinion is that the tsunami came directly from God. The holders of the second opinion also believe in God, but according to them the tsunami was not from God but was simply a natural disaster, as God cannot get angry with His creation. He only loves. The third opinion negates God and calls the tsunami a natural phenomenon that happens from time to time.

The second opinion, in my view, see one side of the coin, or just wants to see only one side. As we know, even in worldly romance, one-sided love is not very much appreciated. So how could God's love be one-sided. Especially when we need Him, not the other way around. He is not our subordinate so no matter how sinfully we may behave, He should only love us and not get upset.

The third opinion seems to be more free and proud. It wants to paint humans as supernatural beings who can handle all their problems on their own.

In reality, as humans, all believers and non-believers are helpless, insecure and fragile, if not before the will of God then before nature. They have to bow their heads either before God or nature. Nature looks to non-believers as "God".

The holders of the first opinion, as believers in a God with absolute power, are never hopeless or disappointed. Even in the worst of times. They believe that if their God can send suffering, He can save them too, or at least can lessen their sins by putting them through trials. Provided they truly repent of their misdeeds.

But non-believers have no hope during such difficult times. They cannot call anyone for help. They see no light at the end of the tunnel. They have a long way to go without any ray of hope.

FAZAL-E-MUJEEB Jakarta