The Summa Philosophiae of Al-Shahrastānī Kitāb Nihāyatu 'l-Iqdām Fi 'Ilmi 'l-Kalām
, translated by
Alfred Guillaume
, explores the depths of
Islamic theology
through
Kalam
, the rational investigation of Islamic doctrine. A foundational text for understanding the intellectual roots of Islam, it examines key theological debates and figures.
Al-Shahrastānī's work begins with
, providing a historical overview of its development, setting the stage for a deeper dive into core theological issues. One key focus is the nature and attributes of God, including
omniscience
,
omnipotence
, and
benevolence
. His analysis of
Tawhid
(God's unity) addresses challenges such as
anthropomorphism
and the
Mu'tazilite
views on monotheism, offering a nuanced understanding of Islamic thought.
The doctrine of
creation ex nihilo
is contrasted with the philosophical view of the world's eternity. Al-Shahrastānī also discusses the nature of the
universe
time
space
matter
, inviting readers to reflect on divine creation.
The book also delves into the role of
prophets
, the interaction of
revelation
and
reason
, and the theological debate between
determinism
free will
, with implications for
moral responsibility
.
Islamic
eschatology
is another major theme, with discussions on the
afterlife
resurrection
Day of Judgment
heaven
hell
, and the criteria for
salvation
. Al-Shahrastānī also surveys
Sunni
Shi'a
perspectives and contrasts the
Ash'arite
schools.
He emphasizes the compatibility of
faith and reason
, showing how rational inquiry supports religious beliefs. The work also tackles
God's attributes
predestination
while exploring the function of
in guiding human understanding.
Kitāb Nihāyatu 'l-Iqdām Fi 'Ilmi 'l-Kalām
is a core text for those studying
philosophy
, with its
comparative approach
making it essential for comparative religion studies. Its
philosophical rigor
addresses complex theological issues with clarity.
This masterpiece is available in
Arabic
English
editions, with
annotations
and scholarly studies making it accessible to modern readers.
Alfred Guillaume's
translation preserves the original idiom while ensuring clarity.
Embark on an intellectual journey through
with
, a work that continues to enrich the understanding of
Islamic philosophy
and invites readers to explore its rational and spiritual dimensions.