Episode 336: A Creation Honoured Above the Angels [38:72]

Allah describes the creation of the human being:

“So when I have proportioned him and breathed into him of My Spirit, then fall down before him prostrating.” (38:72)

In this verse, Adam (as) is first fashioned from clay, then honoured by the breathing of Allah’s Rūḥ. Scholars clarify that this does not mean humans carry a piece of God. Allah is utterly transcendent. Rather, this attribution is a declaration of dignity — an honour bestowed upon humanity.

Like the Ka‘bah is called “My House,” this language elevates what is being described.

We are not merely animated clay. We are clay infused with consciousness, intellect, and moral awareness. We have the capacity to reflect divine attributes.

And yet, because we are made of clay, we also carry earthly impulses.

Imam Ali (as) said:
“Allah created the angels with intellect without desire, animals with desire without intellect, and human beings with both.”

Our elevation lies in this tension. We must choose alignment. We must train our impulses.

Allama Iqbal wrote:
“Farishte se behtar hai insaan banna, magar is mein lagti hai mehnat zyada.”
“It is better to become human than to be an angel — but it requires far greater effort.”

Reflection:

• Am I reacting from my clay — or responding from my spirit?

• What would my higher self choose in this moment?

• What reflects the dignity Allah placed within me?

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