Conclusion
In summary, the individual’s relationship with the universe is not one of hostility or enmity, nor is it a continuous struggle and confrontation that ends only to begin anew on another front.
The human being is the fruit and the essence of the universe. Within it, he is a king in his kingdom, occupying a position akin to wise governance, capable management, and balanced justice. The Lord of the universe has decreed to make the human being His vicegerent (khalifa) upon it. He prepares them for this vicegerency through nurturing, teaching, and wise guidance.
Ignorance has deluded the human being into believing that he is the target of enmity, without mercy or leniency. As a result, he wages battles where there is no battlefield and harbors animosity without any cause for enmity. The human being will not achieve the status of vicegerency until he rises above enmities, realizes that he is too great to be involved in hostility, and leaves no room in his heart except for love.
Indeed, Allah loves all creation - its gases, liquids, stones, minerals, plants, animals, humans, angels, and Iblis. For He, Blessed and Exalted is He, created all things through His will, and will (irada) is a form of love (rayda). The human being will not become Allah’s vicegerent over His creation unless his heart expands to encompass absolute love for all its forms and colors, and unless his actions toward creation reflect the wisdom of one who rectifies and does not corrupt.
Nothing obstructs love in hearts more than fear. Fear is the legitimate father of all the afflictions that have plagued human behavior throughout all eras of history. A person cannot be fit for vicegerency on earth, nor for proper management of his domain, while he is fearful. There is no method or approach to education that frees a person from fear except Islam. Through Islam, a person attains peace with himself, with their Lord, and with all living beings and things.
Allah, Exalted is He, says: "O you who have believed, enter into Islam [peace] completely, and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy." (2:208) "Peace" means Islam, and it also means peace - they share the same meaning. "Do not follow the footsteps of Satan" refers to his incitement of enmity and hatred among you. This is indicated by the mention of enmity in His words: "Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy." (2:208)
