What is the ruling on contemplating Allah`s creatures and how He created them?
Answer:
All perfect praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds. May His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Mohammad and upon all his family and companions.
As shown in the Glorious Quran, Allah has enjoined contemplating the creation and praised those who do so. He said {What means}: " Men who celebrate the praises of God, standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and contemplate the (wonders of) creation in the heavens and the earth, (With the thought): "Our Lord! not for naught Hast Thou created (all) this! Glory to Thee! Give us salvation from the penalty of the Fire." {Al-Emran, 191}. He the Almighty also said" And He has subjected to you, as from Him, all that is in the heavens and on earth: Behold, in that are Signs indeed for those who reflect.." {Al-Jathiyah, 13}.
Abdullah bin Omar (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah said {What means}: "Contemplate the favors of Allah, not Allah." {Related by Tabarani in Al-Mu`jam Al-Awsat, V.6:250}. After mentioning several narrations, Al-Sakhawi said: "Their chains of transmitters are weak but together they are strong and the meaning is correct." {Al-Maqasid Al-Hasanah, Page:215}.
Abu Al-Dardaa` (May Allah be pleased with him) said: "Contemplating Allah`s creation for an hour is better than spending a night in worship."
Bishir Al-Hafie said: "Had people contemplated the greatness of Allah, they wouldn`t disobey Him."
To elaborate on this topic, refer to the book entitled {`Ehyaa` ulum Al-Deen, V.4:423}.
However, this contemplation has to have a purpose. For example, instilling faith, increasing love of Allah and getting ready to meet Him with having offered good deeds.
Therefore, contemplation shouldn`t distract a Muslim from offering good deeds, such as congregational prayer and dutifulness to parents. Also, purposeless contemplation could cause a Muslim to follow the whispers of the devil. For example, distraction from good deeds, bragging about possessing knowledge, and showing arrogance. Moreover, even though such a person could benefit people, he couldn`t benefit himself, so he should beware of the punishment in the Hereafter. And Allah the Almighty knows best