Miracles of Islam · Philosophical Proofs

Were They Created by Nothing, or Are They the Creators?

The Quran is a text that invites its readers to ponder deeply about the nature of existence. One of the profound arguments it presents is found in Surah At-Tur, verses 35-36, which challenge us to consider the origins of creation. This argument is a cornerstone in Islamic philosophy and has been elaborated upon by classical scholars and philosophers throughout history. It engages with the fundamental question of whether the universe and everything within it could have emerged without a cause, whether it could have caused itself, or whether it must have been caused by something beyond itself.

The Quranic Argument

"Were they created by nothing, or were they the creators [of themselves]? Or did they create the heavens and the earth? Rather, they are not certain." (Quran 52:35-36)

These verses present a trilemma that challenges the reader to consider three possibilities regarding the origin of creation: being created from nothing, self-creation, or creation by an external cause. This argument is not only a call to faith but also an invitation to use reason to explore the nature of existence. It suggests that the universe's existence demands an explanation beyond the natural order itself.

Classical Development of the Argument

Classical Islamic theologians, known as mutakallimun, and philosophers like Ibn Sina (Avicenna) expanded upon this Quranic argument. Ibn Sina's contingency argument is one of the most sophisticated developments of this line of reasoning. He argued that everything in the universe is contingent, meaning it could either exist or not exist. This contingency implies that there must be a necessary being, one that is not contingent and whose existence is essential to explain the existence of everything else.

Later, the kalam cosmological argument emerged from these discussions. It posits that the universe has a beginning, and therefore, must have a cause. This argument hinges on the principle that "whatever begins to exist has a cause." The kalam argument has been influential in both Islamic and Western philosophical thought, drawing upon the Quranic verses to support its conclusions.

Engaging with Serious Replies

Critics of these arguments propose that the universe as a whole might not require a cause in the same way that its individual parts do. This perspective suggests that the universe could be a "brute fact," existing without an explanation. While this position may seem unsatisfying to some, it is a coherent philosophical stance that challenges the necessity of a causal explanation for the universe's existence.

Furthermore, some argue that the principles of causality applicable within the universe may not apply to the universe itself, especially when considering concepts like quantum mechanics, where causality is not always straightforward. These critiques do not necessarily negate the arguments but highlight the complexity and depth of the philosophical discussion surrounding the origins of existence.

Reason and Faith

The Quranic argument in Surah At-Tur appeals to both reason and faith. For those who may not accept the Quran as a divine text, the argument still invites reflection on the nature of existence and causality. It encourages individuals to think critically about the universe and their place within it. The argument does not claim to definitively settle the question of existence, but it provides a framework for exploring these profound questions.

Moreover, other Quranic verses such as 2:117 and 21:30 further emphasize the idea of creation by an external cause:

"The Originator of the heavens and the earth. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, 'Be,' and it is." (Quran 2:117)

"Have those who disbelieved not considered that the heavens and the earth were a joined entity, and We separated them and made from water every living thing? Then will they not believe?" (Quran 21:30)

These verses convey the notion of a transcendent Creator who initiates and sustains the universe, a concept that resonates with the philosophical arguments developed by Islamic scholars and thinkers.

Conclusion

In exploring the Quranic argument of creation, we find a powerful intersection of faith and reason. The trilemma posed in Surah At-Tur encourages deep reflection on the origins of existence, inviting believers and skeptics alike to engage with one of life's most profound questions. While the argument does not claim to provide an indisputable answer, it offers a compelling perspective that continues to inspire philosophical inquiry and spiritual contemplation.