The question you've raised touches on the age-old philosophical problem known as "the problem of evil." It's a complex and profound question that has been debated by theologians, philosophers, and thinkers for centuries. Different religious traditions and belief systems offer various explanations for the existence of suffering and evil in the world, and the nature of God's role in it.
Here are some common perspectives:
Free will: Many religious believers argue that God has granted humans free will, which allows us to make choices and decisions independently. With free will, humans have the capacity to choose both good and evil actions. Suffering and evil are often the consequences of human choices, not directly caused by God.
The test or greater purpose: Some religious beliefs propose that suffering and challenges in life serve a higher purpose, such as testing one's faith, building character, or teaching valuable lessons. From this perspective, God may allow suffering for a greater good, even if it's difficult for us to comprehend at times.
Incomprehensibility of God: Some religious traditions consider God to be beyond human understanding and reasoning. The concept of God is seen as transcendent and mysterious, making it challenging for us to fully grasp the reasons behind suffering and evil.
Karma and rebirth: Certain belief systems, like Hinduism and Buddhism, propose the concept of karma and rebirth. According to these beliefs, the suffering one experiences in this life may be a result of actions from past lives.
Divine Plan: Some people believe that God has a plan for each individual and for the world as a whole, and that suffering is a part of that plan. It is seen as a part of the divine order, even if it seems difficult or unfair to us from our limited perspective.
God as non-interfering: In some philosophical and religious traditions, God is viewed as a non-interfering or distant deity who allows the natural laws of the universe to unfold without direct intervention.
It's essential to recognize that these explanations come from diverse religious and philosophical viewpoints, and not everyone adheres to any single explanation. Additionally, not everyone believes in a god or higher power, and various non-theistic philosophies address the problem of suffering in different ways.
Ultimately, the question of why suffering exists and why God may appear to allow it is a deeply personal and complex one. People grapple with these questions in various ways, finding solace and understanding through their faith, personal beliefs, or philosophical reflections.