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   An Introduction Explaining Certain Points [arising from] This Verse Consider this: a proof (burhan) is [in the form of] either the argument from material cause to material effect (limmî), or the argument from effect to cause (innî'). This latter is sounder, and it is either based on contingency (imkânî), that is, the argument that since contingent beings are equal in respect of being and non-being there must be [a Necessary Being] to choose this (al-murajjih)', or it is based on createdness (hudûthî) that is, the argument that since there is constant change and renewal in beings, there must be One to give them existence (al-mûjid). Each of the above proofs is in respect of either the essences of things or their attributes, and in respect of either the giving of existence or the continuation of it. And all of them are either the proof that things are given existence out of nothing (dalîl ikh-tirâ'î) or the proof of divine providence (dalil 'inâyatî). The present verse alludes to all these types of proof. Included here is [only] a summary of them, for we have explained them in detail in another book.1 Double click for meaning of the world. | |||
