Promoting peace and harmony from an Abrahamic perspective

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What does it mean to 'Seek God?'

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Seeking God is an active pursuit of a deeper relationship with the Divine, involving various practices such as prayer, meditation, the study of sacred texts, and acts of kindness. It is fundamentally about developing an awareness of the Divine in daily life and aligning one’s values with a Higher Purpose. This journey often requires introspection and a willingness to grow spiritually, emotionally, and ethically.

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Why is 'seeking God' important?

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Seeking God provides direction, purpose, and meaning in life, serving as an anchor during chaotic times. It encourages individuals to reflect on their personal values and beliefs, fostering a sense of community among those who share similar spiritual pursuits. This connection can lead to a supportive environment where individuals can grow together in their faith and understanding.

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How does 'seeking God' help us?

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This practice can significantly enhance well-being, leading to a greater sense of peace, joy, and fulfilment. It aids in decision-making during challenging times by providing clarity and perspective. Moreover, seeking God promotes personal growth and emotional resilience, allowing individuals to navigate life's ups and downs with a sense of purpose and strength.

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How does 'seeking God' cause us harm?

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While seeking God can be beneficial, it can also lead to negative outcomes if approached incorrectly. It may result in dogmatism, where individuals become rigid in their beliefs, or feelings of inadequacy if they perceive themselves as failing in their spiritual journey. In extreme cases, it can lead to harmful behaviors justified by misguided interpretations of faith. Therefore, maintaining a humble and open approach is essential to avoid these pitfalls and to foster a healthy spiritual life.

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How does 'seeking God' impact our Well-being?

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• Physical: Reduced stress and anxiety, contributing to overall health.

• Emotional: Improved emotional regulation, leading to better coping mechanisms.

• Spiritual: A profound sense of peace, connection and belonging within a larger community.

• Mental: Enhanced clarity and focus, allowing for better decision-making. Increased positivity when actively seeking to see the good in experiences and interactions and others. 

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Impact on relationships

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Seeking God often leads to increased compassion and healthier dynamics in relationships. Individuals who engage in this pursuit tend to develop greater empathy and understanding towards others. Shared spiritual pursuits can strengthen community bonds, creating a supportive network. However, it is crucial to respect differing beliefs and practices to maintain harmony and inclusivity within diverse communities. The more we seek God, the more we see the 'good' in others, and are more likely to be patient and forgiving towards them and treat them with the same respect and appreciation that we ourselves would want to be treated. This leads to happier relationships that are more peaceful and less likely to breakdown. 

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What does Abrahamic Scripture teach about 'seeking God?'

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Jewish texts emphasise the importance of seeking God with devotion and commitment, highlighting ethical behaviour and community responsibility as integral parts of the spiritual journey. The teachings encourage individuals to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly, reinforcing the notion that seeking God is not just a personal endeavour but a communal one as well. 

 

Jewish scripture, particularly the Hebrew Bible or Tanakh, provides profound insights into the nature of God, portraying Him as a singular, all-powerful, and transcendent being. Central to Jewish theology is the concept of monotheism, which emphasises that there is only one God who is the creator and sustainer of the universe. The Shema, a fundamental declaration of faith found in Deuteronomy 6:4, encapsulates this belief: "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one." This verse highlights not only the unity of God but also His uniqueness, setting Him apart from the polytheistic beliefs that surrounded ancient Israel. Furthermore, Jewish scripture reveals God's attributes, such as His omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence. For instance, in Genesis, God is depicted as the creator of the world, speaking the universe into existence through His word. The Psalms often reflect on God's greatness and majesty, emphasizing His power over nature and history. Additionally, God's relational aspect is highlighted through His covenant with the people of Israel, demonstrating His desire for a personal relationship with humanity. This covenant, marked by laws and commandments, illustrates God's moral nature and His expectations for ethical behavior among His followers. Moreover, Jewish texts also explore the concept of God's mercy and justice. In Exodus, God reveals Himself as compassionate and forgiving, yet also as one who does not leave the guilty unpunished. This duality emphasizes the balance between God's love and His righteousness, showcasing a complex character that invites believers to engage with Him on multiple levels—both in awe of His power and in gratitude for His grace.

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Jesus teaches that seeking God involves love, humility, and service to others. He emphasises the transformative power of kindness and compassion, illustrating that true spirituality is reflected in how we treat one another. The call to love one’s neighbour as oneself encapsulates the essence of seeking God through actions and relationships. Christ, offers a transformative understanding of the nature of God, revealing Him as both transcendent and immanent. Through His teachings, parables, and actions, Jesus emphasises God's loving and personal nature, inviting individuals into a direct relationship with Him. One of the most significant revelations is found in the Lord's Prayer, where Jesus refers to God as "Our Father," highlighting an intimate familial connection that was revolutionary for His time. This portrayal of God as a caring parent underscores His desire for closeness and accessibility, contrasting with the more distant and formal depictions often found in earlier scriptures.

 

Christ's life exemplifies the attributes of God through His compassion, mercy, and grace. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus engages with the marginalised, heals the sick, and forgives sins, demonstrating God's love in action. The parable of the Prodigal Son, for instance, illustrates God's boundless forgiveness and joy in the repentance of sinners, portraying Him as eager to embrace those who return to Him. Through Christ, believers are invited to see God not only as a figure of authority but as a source of unconditional love and grace, fundamentally reshaping their understanding of divine nature

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The Quran stresses the significance of sincere intention and devotion in the pursuit of God. It encourages believers to reflect on the wonders of creation and to strive for righteousness in their daily lives. The teachings emphasise that seeking God is a continuous journey that requires dedication and self-reflection. 

 

The Quran presents a comprehensive view of the nature of God, known in Arabic as Allah, emphasising His Oneness, Sovereignty, and Mercy. Central to Islamic belief is the concept of Tawhid, which underscores the absolute monotheism of God, asserting that there is no deity worthy of worship except Him. This is articulated in the opening chapter of the Quran, Al-Fatiha, which begins with praise for Allah as the "Lord of all the worlds," establishing His authority and significance in the lives of believers.

 

The Quran describes Allah with numerous attributes, known as Asma'ul Husna, or the "Names of Allah," which include the Merciful (Ar-Rahman), the Compassionate (Ar-Rahim), the All-Knowing (Al-Alim), and the All-Powerful (Al-Qadir). These names reflect a multifaceted character that encompasses both justice and mercy, inviting believers to understand God as a compassionate guide who is intimately aware of their struggles and needs. For instance, Surah 2:286 states, "Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear," illustrating His understanding and care for humanity.

 

The Quran emphasises God's transcendence and immanence, portraying Him as both beyond human comprehension and deeply involved in the affairs of the world. The concept of divine guidance is paramount, with the Quran serving as a manual for living a righteous life in accordance with God's will. Believers are encouraged to seek knowledge and understanding of God's signs in the universe, as well as to engage in prayer and worship to maintain a close relationship with Him.

 

Additionally, the Quran discusses the importance of accountability and the Day of Judgment, where individuals will be held responsible for their actions. This aspect of God's nature emphasizes His justice, ensuring that all deeds are recognized and rewarded or punished accordingly. Through these teachings, the Quran presents a holistic view of God, combining elements of love, mercy, justice, and authority, inviting believers to foster a deep and meaningful relationship with the Divine.

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Seeking God to help us transform darkness to Light

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Seeking God can help individuals find meaning in their challenges and hardships, fostering a sense of gratitude and resilience. This spiritual pursuit promotes healing and understanding, allowing individuals to transform their struggles into opportunities for growth and enlightenment. By finding wisdom even in the darkest of places ( ie negative experiences, struggles, loss and hardship) and then using this wisdom as a guiding light to help others with compassion and empathy, we transform darkness to Light. However it is only possible to do this if we seek God with courage and strength using our hearts and minds, even in the darkest of places where light is hidden. By focusing on the divine, individuals can shift their perspectives and find hope even in difficult circumstances.

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Practical steps to improve seeking God

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• Establish a daily routine of prayer or meditation to cultivate a deeper connection with the divine. Establish a direct One to One connection with Him as though He is your best Intimate Friend. 

• Engage in regular study of sacred texts to gain insights and wisdom.

• Practice mindfulness in interactions with others to foster compassion and understanding.

• Participate in community service or acts of kindness to embody the principles of love and service.

• Choose to always see the Good in people and put your Trust in our Maker Who is Close and knows us better than we know ourselves. 

 

The Different Attributes/Names of God

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The concept of the 72 different Names of God in Jewish scripture is a profound aspect of Jewish mysticism and spirituality, particularly within the Kabbalistic tradition. These names are derived from three verses in the Book of Exodus (Exodus 14:19-21), and they are believed to encapsulate the essence and attributes of the Divine. Each name is thought to hold unique spiritual significance and power, serving as a means for practitioners to connect with the Divine and invoke specific qualities or blessings in their lives. The names themselves are often composed of combinations of letters, and they can be pronounced or meditated upon to enhance one's spiritual practices. In Kabalistic teachings, it is said that understanding and utilising these names can lead to greater insight into the nature of God and the universe, as well as provide protection, healing, and guidance. The list of these 72 names is not merely a collection of words; each name is rich with meaning and is often associated with various attributes of God, such as mercy, justice, and compassion. The study of these names involves deep contemplation and often requires a teacher or guide, as the mystical implications can be complex and profound. In addition to their spiritual applications, these names also play a role in various rituals and prayers within the Jewish tradition, where they are invoked for blessings or during significant life events. The reverence for these names underscores the deep connection that practitioners have with the Divine, highlighting the importance of language and intention in their spiritual practices. Overall, the 72 Names of God represent a significant aspect of Jewish thought, reflecting the intricate relationship between humanity and the Divine, and serving as a powerful tool for those seeking to deepen their spiritual journey.

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The names of God from the Quran, known as the Asma'ul Husna, or the "Most Beautiful Names," encompass a rich and profound aspect of Islamic theology. These names reflect the various attributes and characteristics of Allah, providing insight into His nature and essence. In total, there are traditionally 99 names attributed to God in Islamic tradition, each representing different facets of His divine qualities. For instance, names such as Ar-Rahman (The Most Gracious) and Ar-Rahim (The Most Merciful) emphasize God's compassion and mercy towards His creation. Other names, like Al-Malik (The King) and Al-Quddus (The Most Sacred), highlight His sovereignty and purity. Each name serves not only as a means of understanding God but also as a way for believers to invoke and connect with Him in their prayers and daily lives. Furthermore, the Quran frequently illustrates these names in various contexts, demonstrating how they apply to the world and humanity. As such, exploring the names of God in the Quran is not merely an academic exercise but a spiritual journey that deepens one’s faith and understanding of the divine. The significance of these names is also reflected in Islamic practices, where many Muslims incorporate them into their daily prayers and supplications, seeking to embody the attributes they represent in their own lives.

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Some Attributes of God (According to Scripture):

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'The Lord of the Worlds', 'The Saviour,' 'The Most- Compassionate', 'The Most- Gracious', 'The Most-Forgiving', 'The Most-Merciful', 'The Perfect', 'The All-Powerful', 'The Beneficent', 'The King', 'The Just', 'The Sovereign Lord', 'The Holy', 'The Purest', 'The Guardian of Faith' 'The Bountiful One', 'The Giver of Peace', 'The Free of need,' 'The Guardian of Faith', 'The Protector', 'The All-Mighty', 'The Strong', 'The Compeller', 'The Majestic', 'The Best of Creators', ''The Source of Life' 'The Divine,' 'The Evolver', 'The Maker', 'The Fashioner','The Subduer', 'The Dominant', 'The Bestower', 'The Sustainer', 'The Provider', 'The Opener', 'The Reliever', 'The All-Knowing', 'The Retainer', 'The Expander', 'The Abaser', 'The Exalter', 'The Honourer', 'The All-Hearing', 'The All-Seeing', 'The Judge', 'The Just', 'The Subtle', 'The Aware', 'The Forbearing', 'The Great One', ''The All- Mighty', 'The All-Faithful', The 'Compeller', ''The Superb' 'The Majestic,' 'The Preserver', 'The Maintainer', 'The Reckoner', 'The Sublime One', 'The Generous', 'The Watcher', 'The Responsive', 'The Vast', 'The Provider', 'The Exalted', 'The Unique', 'The Most- Wise', 'The Aware', 'The Most Loving', 'The Glorious', 'The Resurrector', 'The Witness', 'The Truth', 'The Trustee', 'The Strong', 'The Firm One', 'The Supporter', 'The Praiseworthy', 'The All-Embracing', 'The Protector from evil', 'The Liberator', 'The Awakener', 'The Counter', 'The Originator', 'The Reproducer', 'The Nourisher', 'The Restorer', 'The Destroyer', 'The Alive', 'The Self-subsisting', 'The Perceiver', 'The Unique', 'The One', 'The Eternal', 'The Able', 'The Powerful', 'The Expediter', 'The Delayer', 'The First', 'The Last', 'The Manifest', 'The Hidden', 'The Governor', 'The Most Exalted', 'The Source of All Goodness', 'The Acceptor of Repentance', 'The Avenger', 'The Pardoner', 'The Compassionate', 'The King of Kings', 'The Lord of Majesty and Bounty', 'The Equitable', 'The Gatherer', 'The Self-Sufficient', 'The Enricher', 'The Deliverer', 'The Balancer', 'The Propitious', 'The Light', 'The Incomparable', 'The Everlasting', 'The Inheritor', 'The Best Guide' , 'The Patient'.......

 

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'..Call upon God, or call upon the Merciful; whichsoever you call upon, to Him belong the Names Most Beautiful....' Quran 17:110

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According to the Abrahamic Scriptures, God created humanity in His own image as the One True God, our Creator and Source of Life. He possesses the Most Beautiful Names and Attributes.

 

The Scriptures affirm that humans are endowed with free will, allowing them to choose their beliefs, which is a fundamental right for all individuals. This ability varies among people and is influenced by their intellect, emotions, and perceptions of reality. By understanding and embodying God's Attributes, individuals can foster meaningful relationships and draw closer to Him. Gaining wisdom and seeking truth sincerely can lead to inner peace and harmony with others.

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The Scriptures emphasise that a strong relationship with the Creator is essential for establishing healthy connections with one another. The qualities necessary for positive relationships, such as righteousness and moral discernment, stem from this divine relationship. To treat others as we wish to be treated, we must take responsibility for our lives and incorporate values like peace, kindness, honesty, integrity, humility, trust, justice, respect, tolerance, sacrifice, forgiveness, joy, gratitude, perseverance, and righteousness into our actions.

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God is described in the Scriptures as the Source of Life, Creation, Truth, Wisdom, Knowledge, Light, Love, Mercy, Forgiveness, and all that is good. The Scriptures encourage humanity to turn to this Source of Life and surrender to His Divine Will to achieve peace, wisdom, and fulfillment. Through prayer and acts of sacrifice, individuals can seek salvation from the negative consequences of their free will, taking responsibility for their words and actions to the best of their abilities.

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Some Quotes from Scripture 

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"The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation." Exodus 34:6-7

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 "But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find Him if you look for Him with all your heart and with all your soul." Deuteronomy 4:29

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 "The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. The Lord is good to all, and His mercies are over all His works." Psalm 145:8-9

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 "Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near." Isaiah 55:6

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 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

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"My heart says of you, 'Seek His face!' Your face, Lord, I will seek." Psalms 27:8 

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 "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.'" Luke 15:4-7

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"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it." Matthew 13:45-46 

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 "Say, 'He is Allah, [who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent.'" Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1-4)

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 "So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me." Surah Al-Baqarah (2:152)

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'In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.' Genesis 1:1

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'Call upon God, or call upon The Most Merciful; whichsoever you call upon, to God belong the Most Beautiful Names.' Quran 17:110

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'God exists. There is no God but He, the Everlasting and the Guardian of life. Drowsiness or sleep do not seize him. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and the earth. No one can intercede with Him for others except by His permission. He knows about people's present and past. No one can grasp anything from His knowledge besides what He has permitted them to grasp. The heavens and the earth are under His dominion. He does not experience fatigue in preserving them both. He is the Highest and the Greatest.' Quran 2:255

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'God is not human, that He should lie, not a human being, that he should change His mind. Does He Speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfil?' Numbers 23:19​

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'.." The Lord, the Lord, the Compassionate and Gracious God, slow to anger, Abounding in Love and Faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished...' Exodus 34:5-7

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'As for God; His Way is Perfect: The Lord's word is flawless; He shields all who take refuge in Him.' Psalm 18:30

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'And the heavens proclaim His Righteousness, for He is a God of Justice.' Psalm 50:6

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'The Lord is Gracious and Righteous; our God is full of Compassion.' Psalm 116:5​​

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'For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will He withheld for them that walk uprightly.' Psalm 84:11

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'God is The Light of the heavens and the earth. The example of His Light is like a niche within which is a lamp, the lamp is within a glass, the glass as if it were a pearly (white) star lit from ( the oil of) a blessed olive tree, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil would almost glow even if untouched by fire. Light upon light. God guides to His Light whom He wills. And God presents examples for the people, and God is Knowing of all things.' Quran 25:35

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'For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double edged sword. It penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; It Judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.' Hebrews 4 :12

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'For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God?' Samuel 22:32

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'But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for His inheritance. From heaven the Lord looks down and sees all mankind;' Psalm 33:11-13

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'... "He is God, the One. God The Absolute. He begets not, nor was He begotten. And there is non comparable to Him.' Quran: Chapter 112.​

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'Have you not considered the one who argued with Abraham about his Lord [merely] because God had given him kingship? When Abraham said, "My Lord is the one who gives life and causes death," he said, "I give life and cause death." Abraham said, "Indeed, God brings up the sun from the east, so bring it up from the west." So the disbeliever was overwhelmed [by astonishment], and God does not guide the wrongdoing people. 'Quran 2:258

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'Praise be to the Lord, To God our Saviour, Who daily bears our burdens. Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign Lord comes escape from death.' Psalm 68:19-20​

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'Whatsoever is in the heavens and the earth glorifies God and He is the Glorious, All-Wise. His is the sovereignty of the heavens and the earth. It is He Who gives life and causes death and He is Able to do all things. He is the First and the Last, the Manifest, and the Unmanifest. And He is the Omniscient. He it is Who created the heavens and the earth in six days [and period of time] and then rose over the Throne. He is All-Aware of what goes into the earth and what comes forth from it and what descends from the heaven and what ascends thereto. And He is with you wherever you may be. And God is the All-Seer of what you do. His is the Sovereignty of the heavens and the earth and to God return all things. He merges night into day and merges day into night and He has full knowledge of the secrets and intentions in the hearts. Quran 57:1-6

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