Human Evolution and Divinity: A Perspective in the Light of Islam
The idea that humanity could evolve into beings resembling traditional definitions of gods has fascinated philosophers, scientists, and thinkers across history. While such speculative scenarios are often steeped in scientific or technological optimism, they also raise profound questions about the nature of divinity, humanity, and purpose. In addressing this notion, it is essential to explore it through the lens of Islamic theology, particularly drawing on insights from Tafsir-e-Kabir by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad, the writings of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (the Promised Messiah), and other areas of knowledge, including science and philosophy.
This article will refute this proposition point by point, demonstrating that human evolution into godlike beings is neither feasible nor compatible with the attributes of divinity as understood in Islam.
The Definition of God in Islam
In Islamic theology, Allah is described as the Supreme Being, possessing attributes that are unique, eternal, and beyond human comprehension. Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, in his writings, emphasized the distinction between the Creator and the creation. In his book Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya, he argued that God is “Ahad” (the One) and “Samad” (Self-Sufficient), qualities that cannot be replicated by any created being, no matter how advanced.
The concept of humanity evolving into gods challenges these fundamental attributes of Allah. A being that evolves remains contingent and dependent on external factors, such as biological or technological processes. By contrast, Allah is independent of time, space, and material needs. Human evolution, even if it led to extraordinary advancements, would still operate within the framework of creation, thus disqualifying any resemblance to the divine.
Human Limitations in Light of Divine Perfection
In Tafsir-e-Kabir, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad elaborated on the human condition, highlighting our inherent limitations. Humans are subject to physical, intellectual, and moral constraints. Even if technology could extend lifespans or enhance intelligence, it could not remove the fundamental imperfections that define humanity.
For example:
Humans are bound by mortality. Even with advancements in medicine, aging and death are integral parts of our biological design.
Human knowledge, while vast, is finite and grows incrementally. In contrast, Allah’s knowledge is infinite, encompassing all things past, present, and future.
The Quran states:
“And they ask you concerning the soul. Say, ‘The soul is by the command of my Lord, and of the knowledge thereof you have been given but a little.’” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:85)
This verse highlights the finite scope of human understanding, a limitation that cannot be transcended through evolution or technology.
The Purpose of Humanity
Islam teaches that the purpose of humanity is to recognize and worship Allah, not to aspire to divinity. The Quran declares:
“And I have not created the Jinn and the men except that they may worship Me.” (Surah Adh-Dhariyat, 51:57)
Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad repeatedly stressed that human progress, whether spiritual or material, should lead to greater submission to Allah, not arrogance or delusions of godhood. Any aspiration to become “godlike” contradicts the very purpose of creation, as it stems from hubris rather than humility.
The Evolutionary Argument
The idea of humanity evolving into gods often relies on the premise that scientific progress will allow us to transcend our biological and cognitive limitations. While this argument may appear compelling, it overlooks key philosophical and theological flaws:
Dependence on Material Means: Advancements in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, or genetic engineering remain dependent on material resources and processes. Divinity, as described in Islam, is not bound by material existence.
Absence of Moral and Spiritual Growth: Technological progress does not equate to moral or spiritual advancement. History demonstrates that increased power often leads to greater corruption, not divinity.
Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad, in his commentary, warned against equating material progress with true human advancement. He argued that real progress lies in spiritual enlightenment and submission to divine will, not in the accumulation of power or control.
Divine Attributes are Non-Transferable
One of the most significant flaws in the idea of humans becoming gods is the misunderstanding of divine attributes. Allah’s attributes, such as Al-Khaliq (The Creator), Al-Aleem (The All-Knowing), and Al-Qadeer (The All-Powerful), are not merely functions but essential qualities of His being. Humans, being created entities, cannot acquire these attributes in their totality.
Even the prophets, who were the best of humanity, never claimed divinity. Instead, they emphasized their servitude to Allah. The Quran states:
“Say, ‘I am only a man like you. It has been revealed to me that your God is One God. So let him who hopes to meet his Lord do good deeds, and let him join no partner in the worship of his Lord.’” (Surah Al-Kahf, 18:111)
Ethical Implications of Aspiring to Godhood
The desire to evolve into gods often stems from a misguided perception of power and autonomy. However, this aspiration can lead to ethical dilemmas:
Arrogance and Hubris: The Quran repeatedly warns against arrogance, a trait exemplified by Iblis (Satan), who refused to submit to Allah’s command.
Neglect of Spiritual Development: Focusing on material or technological progress at the expense of spiritual growth undermines the holistic purpose of life.
Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad cautioned against such tendencies, emphasizing that true progress lies in humility, gratitude, and submission to Allah.
The notion that humanity could evolve into beings resembling gods is fundamentally flawed from an Islamic perspective. It misunderstands the nature of divinity, overestimates human potential, and ignores the purpose of creation. As outlined in Tafsir-e-Kabir and the writings of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, humanity’s ultimate goal is not to become gods but to recognize and worship the One true God.
Through spiritual growth, moral excellence, and humility, humans can achieve nearness to Allah, but they can never attain His essence. This understanding preserves the unique and incomparable majesty of Allah, affirming the Quranic declaration:
“There is nothing whatever like unto Him, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing.” (Surah Ash-Shura, 42:12)
“Can Humanity Ever Evolve Into Gods? An Islamic Perspective Unveiled!”
“Refuting the Myth: Why Humans Can’t Become Divine.”
“The Line Between Creator and Creation: Exploring Divinity Through Islam.”
“Evolution vs. Divinity: What Islam Says About Human Potential.”
“Are Humans on the Path to Godhood? Islamic Insights Say Otherwise.”
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