Infinite Multiplicities and Possibilities from the Islamic Perspective of Aqīdah
I. Introduction:
Islamic aqīdah, or the Islamic creed, offers a profound understanding of the relationship between God and creation. Central to this perspective is the concept of infinite multiplicities and possibilities, where God encompasses all potentialities, yet chooses to manifest only one form of creation. In this article, we delve into the Islamic understanding of this profound principle, exploring the concepts of pre-existent efficient and pre-existent sufficient. Drawing upon the insights of renowned scholars, we aim to shed light on the intricate nature of God's act of creation within the framework of Islamic theology.
II. The Concept of Infinite Multiplicities and Possibilities:
Within Islamic theology, the concept of infinite multiplicities and possibilities refers to the boundless potentialities that exist within God's knowledge and power. As the Creator, God possesses infinite wisdom and understanding, capable of manifesting an infinite number of creations. However, despite this limitless potential, God chooses to enact only one form of creation.
This singular act of creation serves as a testament to God's wisdom and sovereignty. It emphasizes the unique and purposeful nature of creation, reflecting the underlying coherence and divine plan that permeates the universe. The Quran states, "Indeed, your Lord is God, who created the heavens and the earth in six days and then established Himself above the Throne, arranging the matter" (Quran 10:3).
III. The Cosmological Relationships of God’s Attributes
To grasp the Islamic perspective on the concept of infinite multiplicities and possibilities, we turn to the concepts of pre-existent efficient and pre-existent sufficient. These terms are used by Islamic theologians to elucidate the relationship between God's knowledge and His act of creation.
Pre-Existent Efficient (تنفيذ القديم):
Pre-existent efficient refers to God's eternal attribute of being the ultimate cause of all things. It highlights the fact that God's act of creation is not impelled by any external cause or necessity. Rather, creation emanates solely from God's will and power. Renowned scholar Imam Al-Ghazali explains this concept by stating, "God creates the world without needing to create it, and He knows it without needing to know it."
In the context of infinite multiplicities and possibilities, the concept of pre-existent efficient emphasizes that God's choice to manifest one form of creation is an act of divine will rather than a limitation or inability to create other forms. God's decision to enact a specific creation is rooted in His infinite wisdom and the grand design of the universe.
Pre-Existent Sufficient (صلوحي قديم):
Pre-existent sufficient refers to God's eternal attribute of encompassing all potentialities and possibilities within His knowledge. God's knowledge is not contingent upon creation but is inherent in His essence. The renowned Islamic philosopher and theologian, Ibn Sina, described God's knowledge as “a single knowledge comprising the whole and comprehensive of all existence, from beginning to end.”
In the realm of infinite multiplicities and possibilities, pre-existent sufficient underscores that God's knowledge encompasses every conceivable form of creation. God possesses comprehensive knowledge of all possible worlds, yet chooses to actualize only one. This choice reflects the divine wisdom and purpose behind the creation.
IV. The Perspectives of Ghazali, Ibn Arabi and Ibn Sina
Imam Al-Ghazali: Emphasized the notion of divine multiplicity within the unity of God. In his seminal work, “The Incoherence of the Philosophers,” he posited that God encompasses an inexhaustible array of attributes and actions that surpass human comprehension. Al-Ghazali's standpoint illuminates the vast expanse of God's creation and His boundless capacity to manifest infinite potentials within it.
Ibn Al-Arabi: A highly influential Sufi scholar, delved into the concept of divine multiplicity through his philosophical framework known as the “Unity of Being.” According to Ibn Arabi, the entirety of existence serves as a manifestation of the divine essence, with each entity reflecting a distinct facet of God's attributes. From this perspective, the infinite multiplicities and possibilities inherent in creation offer humanity a means to attain profound insights into the nature of the divine.
Ibn Sina (Avicenna): Approached the concept of infinite multiplicities and possibilities from a metaphysical vantage point. He postulated that the existence of limitless possibilities arises from God's boundless power and omniscience. Ibn Sina's perspective implies that the diversity and multitude observed in the universe are not haphazard occurrences but rather deliberate designs orchestrated by the “hand” of God.
V. Implications and Significance
The recognition of infinite multiplicities and possibilities in ʿaqīdah holds several implications for believers and scholars alike.
Firstly, it allows for a comprehensive understanding of God's attributes, surpassing the limited human comprehension. This understanding fosters awe and humility in the face of the divine, acknowledging the incapability of human intellect to encompass the “complexity” of God’s actions.
Secondly, the concept of infinite multiplicities and possibilities encourages believers to explore the beauty and diversity of the universe. By recognizing that every aspect of creation reflects a unique manifestation of God's attributes, individuals are inspired to seek knowledge, appreciate different perspectives, and embrace the wonders of the natural world.
Moreover, the acceptance of infinite possibilities promotes tolerance and inclusivity within Islamic theology. By acknowledging the vastness of God's creation, one could take this as a sign that believers are encouraged to embrace diversity and respect the multiplicity of interpretations and practices within the Islamic tradition. This recognition fosters an environment of dialogue and mutual understanding, promoting unity among Muslims despite their differences.
VI. Conclusion:
Within the framework of Islamic ʿaqīdah, the concept of infinite multiplicities and possibilities reveals a profound understanding of God's act of creation. The concepts of pre-existent efficient and pre-existent sufficient shed light on the nature of God's will, power, and knowledge in relation to creation. God, with His limitless potential, chooses to manifest only one form of creation, guided by divine wisdom and purpose.
This Islamic perspective emphasizes the uniqueness and coherence of the created world, highlighting the intricate design and divine plan that underpins the universe. Recognizing God's sovereignty and infinite wisdom, Muslims strive to align their lives with the divine purpose, embracing the beauty and purposefulness of the singular act of creation enacted by God.
Through the understanding of infinite multiplicities and possibilities, Muslims are encouraged to explore the world with awe and reverence, recognizing the signs of God's wisdom and grandeur that permeate creation.
