The Fall And Rise Of Adam: How It Speaks To Me!

Disclaimer: I feel that this post has the potential to be misinterpreted, so let me clarify my position beforehand. I am not suggesting that this perspective reflects the true account of what happened. And, for the conservatives, this is not a “modern re-interpretation.” This, simply, is one of the ways I personally resonate with Adam’s account mentioned in the Quran.

Adam is the very first figure we come across in the Quran (Ch2 V30). We are told of the origin of mankind, and how he was tempted by the “tree” of greed which lead to his downfall. This, I think, you are perfectly aware of.

Notwithstanding the original account, allow me to share my perspective.

I’ve always looked at the account of Adam in terms of our evolution from birth to attaining spiritual liberation – a pattern, I believe, any spiritual person can relate to. If we view it as such, and put ourselves in Adam’s place, we realize that everyone is born into Paradise – a state of bliss: A state, in which most of us, live in abundance and joy, enjoying the little pleasures of life.

“And We said: “O Adam, dwell thou and thy partner in this garden, and eat freely thereof, both of you, whatever you may wish; but do not approach this one tree, lest you become oppressors.” Quran, 2:35

However, as we grow older, Shaitan (I take it to be the negative aspects of society, in this case) tempts us towards the “tree” of greed, obscenities and oppression; which causes us to “fall” from our blissful state. This degradation makes us live a lowly existence, resulting in enmity with one another and division as a whole, all because of a lack of peace and contentment within ourselves.

“But Satan caused them both to stumble therein and got them out of the happy state they were in. And so We said, Degraded you have become with wedges of discord among yourselves! There shall be for you habitation and livelihood on earth for a while.” Quran, 2:36

Unfortunately, most of us never transcend this stage. Running behind the daily chores of life, we ultimately fail to fulfill the purpose of life: evolving our souls. Not all are content with this condition, though. That’s when we seek some change in our lives, seeking what you would call a “paradigm shift.”

The spiritual quest begins. We explore different paths, and finally come across a path that speaks to us louder than others. Feeling ecstatic, we are consumed and are redeemed by the Beloved’s messages; regaining peace and contentment within ourselves while becoming one with God again.

“Thereupon Adam received words [of guidance] from his Sustainer, and He accepted his repentance: for, verily, He is the Acceptor of Repentance, the Dispenser of Grace.” Quran, 2:37