The First Root: Searching for the Source of Existence and the Meaning of Life

Why do we search for the “Origin”?

Have you ever stood before a stunning painting, marveled at the complexity of DNA, or watched the perfect orbits of the planets and asked yourself: “Who is behind all of this?” This question isn’t just scientific curiosity; it is a natural human instinct (Fitrah/فطرة)—an inner drive to find the “Source” that gives our lives meaning beyond just biological survival.

In the “Tree of Faith,” believing in God is the deepest root. Just as a tree cannot stand without roots that dive deep into the earth for life and stability, all moral and social virtues in Islam gain their strength from this connection to the Great Creator.

A Comprehensive Vision: Faith as Love and Knowledge

Belief in God (Allah/الله) in Islam is not just admitting that a higher power exists. It is a deep journey of the mind and heart based on three pillars:

1. Awareness of Divine Order (Tadbir/تدبير): Recognizing that this vast universe, with its amazing balance, is not a product of blind chance. It is the work of Wise Planning and limitless creative power.
2. Focus of Purpose (Tawhid/توحيد): When we realize the Source is One, our goals and feelings move toward one “Center.” This frees a person from being a slave to money, material things, or the fear of worldly powers. You become free by turning to God alone.
3. Tasting Beauty and Perfection: By learning the Names and Attributes of God—such as The Merciful (Ar-Rahman/الرحمن), The Just (Al-Adl/العادل), and The All-Knowing (Al-Alim/العليم)—a believer tries to reflect these values. Someone who truly believes in Absolute Justice cannot be unjust, and someone who feels Divine Mercy becomes a home for compassion.

Universal Proofs and the Inner Compass

Islam points out that the universe is an “Open Book” where the mind can read the signs of God’s existence. The same precision that governs an atom governs a galaxy. However, there is another proof inside each of us: the Fitrah (فطرة). This is the “inner compass” that lights up in moments of peace or deep need, telling us we are not alone and that there is a Creator who sees and hears us.

Faith as a Power for Freedom and Integrity

Imagine a society where doing the right thing doesn’t come from fear of human laws (which can be avoided), but from an “inner monitor” born of faith. This is what belief in God creates:

• Freedom from Fear: When you believe your life is in the hands of a Merciful Creator, you stop fearing the future or the judgment of others. This gives you inner peace (Sakinah/سكينة).
• Moral Integrity: Faith turns the conscience into a sanctuary. Honesty and justice become commitments to God before they are social laws. This improves how people treat each other, both in public and in private.
• One Human Family: When we believe we are all created by One God, racial and class differences fade away. Helping others becomes a duty based on a shared human brotherhood under one Lord (Rabb/رب).

Conclusion: An Invitation to Reflect on the “Source”

Belief in God is not a limit on the mind; it is an expansion of its horizons. It is the answer to life’s biggest questions: Where did we come from? Why are we here? And where are we going?

We open our hearts to every truth-seeker. Getting to know the Creator in Islam is the first step toward inner peace and social harmony. We invite you to join our ongoing conversation to discover how faith can be a lighthouse, guiding us toward a world of more mercy and justice.