Oh Black Hebrew Israelites: Why Worship a God In Need of Rest?
Though Al-Islam is the fastest growing religion/way of life on earth, it is not without its detractors. The Qur’an is replete with the word “Quuluu” meaning “They say” and the word “Qul” meaning (you) say. This is indicative of an exchange of ideas, a discourse, a discussion, or a debate. We are commanded in the Qur’an 16:125 to invite others to the way of Al-Islam but too often a part of this verse is missed. The part that is often overlooked is “wa jaadil hum billatee hiya ahsanu.” The translation is “and argue with them in a way that is best.” The word “jaadil” comes from “jadala” meaning to twist firmly, become strong, be quarrelsome, contentious, dispute, contend with, or altercation. Therefore argument, disputation, dissertation or debate is decreed by ALLAH, the Creator of the Mankind. ALLAH also requires us to gain knowledge.
The power, magnificence, majesty, compassion and knowledge of God are axiomatic truths to theists. God does not simply possess attributes. He epitomizes them. God is not just compassionate. He is the most compassionate. God is not just mighty. He is almighty. God is not just knowledgeable. He is All-Knowing. These attributes are well-known and taught throughout the world, but are they upheld in the Bible? One does not have to read too far into the Bible to stumble across a point of concern.
” And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.” Genesis 2:2
Are we to assume that God rests from a hard 6 days of work?
Does God need rest? If He needs rest, what else does he need? What would happen if He did not get rest? Would he faint from exhaustion? All of these questions arise from the idea of a resting God.
There are some who suggest that this “rest” is merely the ending of creation. They submit that God did not take an actual rest. But if we take another look at the verse, we see that “God ended his work” already, thus it would be superfluous for the author to repeat this statement in the very same sentence. To ensure that this point is nailed home, let us look at a related verse in Exodus.
In six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed. (Exodus 31:17 )
While reflecting on the creation narrative, the author makes it clear that this “rest” meant recuperation, regaining one’s strength, recovering and a revitalization. One must ask themselves if this is truly an accurate description of the All-Powerful God. Let us turn to what the Qu’ran teaches about Allah. The Qu’ran says “Allah! There is no deity save Him, the Alive, the Eternal. Neither slumber nor sleep overtaketh Him.” (Al-Baqarah 2:225)
Black Hebrew Isrealites: We invite you to worship a God who is not in need of sleep.
