Principles of "Adab al-Ikhtilaf" in the Dialogue Between Allah Almighty and the angels

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17681979

Abstract

The Qur’an, as the ultimate source of divine guidance, presents a comprehensive framework for managing human disagreements with wisdom and balance. Among its many lessons, the dialogue between Allah Almighty and the angels regarding the creation of Adam  stands out as a profound demonstration of Adab al-Ikhtilāf (ethics of disagreement). This exchange embodies respect, humility, and the pursuit of knowledge, showing how questions can be raised without defiance and how divine wisdom ultimately prevails. The angels’ acknowledgment of their limited knowledge reflects intellectual honesty, while Adam’s distinction through knowledge establishes learning as the foundation for resolving disputes. Furthermore, the contrast between the angels’ obedience and Iblīs’s arrogance illustrates that humility nurtures harmony, whereas pride breeds discord. Collectively, these principles form a timeless Qur’anic paradigm for ethical disagreement, offering guidance not only for individual conduct but also for nurturing social harmony and peaceful coexistence in contemporary contexts.

Keywords: Adab al-Ikhtilāf, Qur’ānic Discourse, Divine Wisdom, Angels’ Dialogue, Adam (علیہ السلام), Iblīs, Conflict Resolution, Ethical Conduct, Mutual Respect, Social Harmony