In the 'Aqidah al-Wasitiyah, Ibn Taymiyyah (rahimahullaah) brings the following hadith from the Sunnah:
- Recorded by Imam Ahmad [vol. 4/ no. 12] and Ibn Majah [no. 181] and Ibn Abu 'Asim [no. 554], and al-Bayhaqi [pg. 473]. And the hadith has been authenticated by al-Albani in As-Sahih [no. 28109].
quote:
"Allaah marvels about the despair of His slaves and the nearness of his good. He looks at you, and you are very desperate, so He keeps laughing, because He knows that your relief is very soon."
Ibn Taymiyyah brings this hadith as proof for Allaah's marveling and laughing.
In "Shaykh Muhammad Salih al-'Uthaymin's Notes on 'Aqidah Wasitiyah", Shaikh al-'Uthaymin wrote:
quote:
The marveling that is not ascribed to Allaah is the marveling that is caused due to the lack of knowledge about the subject being marveled, because there is nothing hidden from Allaah.
However, marveling that is caused due to the transition of a state of unpleasantness to one that is suitable, then this is affirmed for Allaah.
Ahl as-Sunnah have interpreted the marveling to be a marveling that befits Allaah. The people who make distortions interpret the marveling to be rewards or punishmnent of Allaah. This interpretation can be refuted because it is against the apparent text and consensus of the salaf.
Subhanak Allaahuma wa bihamdika ash-hadu anlaa illaaha illa anta astaghfiruka wa atubu ilayk
If I said anything correct, then it is from Allaah (subhanahu wa taa'ala), and if I erred, then that is from me and shaytan.