❖ Rational and Logical Arguments for Divine Oneness
✦ A Story: Two Kingdoms and Two Kings
A hypothetical story is used to illustrate that the existence of anything necessitates a clear distinction. If two kingdoms or two kings exist but there is no difference in their actions, intentions, or attributes, then in reality, they are not two separate entities but one.
This same principle applies to the concept of the Creator. If two creators were to exist and shared identical attributes, intentions, and actions, then in essence, they would not be two, but a single entity.
◈ Argument of Contradictory Will (دلیلِ استثناء)
One Will, One Power:
This argument posits that if there were two or more creators, a conflict of will between them would be inevitable. For instance, if one creator wished to move something and the other wished to prevent it, three outcomes are possible:
① One will dominates
② Both wills are nullified
③ Both agree on the same will
In all cases, the conclusion is that either only one will is effective, or there is no will at all—both of which point to the existence of a single God.
❖ Argument of Distinct Comprehension (دلیلِ تفہیمی اختلاف)
How Can There Be a Difference Between Creators?
A difference between two entities is only possible based on attributes or position. If two creators were to exist without any distinguishing features, then they would essentially be one.
Example:
If two trees are identical in shape and size but are located at different places, their location establishes their multiplicity. However, in the case of the Creator, if there is no difference in any aspect, then they cannot be distinguished—and must be considered one.
✿ Argument of Occam’s Razor (دلیلِ اوکام کا استرا)
The Simplest Explanation Is Best:
Occam’s Razor states that we should not multiply causes without necessity. The simplest explanation is usually the correct one.
Example:
Saying that one all-powerful Creator brought the universe into existence is a simple and rational explanation. Belief in two or more creators raises unnecessary questions, such as:
- How do they relate to each other?
- How are conflicts in will avoided?
- How are their powers divided?
Hence, the simplest and most coherent explanation is that there is only one Creator.
✔ Argument from Definition (دلیلِ تعریف)
Order in the Universe:
The order, harmony, and precision observed in the universe point to the existence of a single Creator.
Qur’anic Verse:
“If there had been in the heavens and the earth gods besides Allah, they both would have been ruined.”
(Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:22)
Tafsir al-Jalalayn Commentary:
“If there had been multiple gods, the universe would have fallen into conflict and chaos, just as occurs in governance under multiple rulers.”
(Tafsir al-Jalalayn, p. 690)
Unity Is Necessary:
If multiple creators existed without conflict, it would imply limitation in will, which contradicts the definition of a true Creator.
❖ Argument from Revelation (دلیلِ وحی)
Testimony of the Qur'an:
Through revelation, Allah has clearly proclaimed His Oneness. Once it is established that the Qur'an is from Allah, all its information becomes authoritative.
Qur’anic Verse:
“Indeed, our God and your God is One, and we are to Him submissive.”
(Surah Al-‘Ankabut, 29:46)
Standards of Revelation:
① It must be internally and externally coherent
② It must align perfectly with divine attributes
③ It must contain transcendent signs that indicate its divine origin
✦ Effects and Practical Outcomes
Belief in the Oneness of Allah profoundly influences both consciousness and society:
✔ We must view the world through the lens of unity, not through sectarian or divided ideologies
✔ We should show love and compassion to all humanity, considering them one family
Prophetic Saying:
"The Most Merciful shows mercy to those who are merciful. Be merciful to those on the earth, and the One above the heavens will be merciful to you."
(Jami' al-Tirmidhi: Book of Righteousness and Relations, Hadith 1924)
Summary:
The oneness of Allah is not only a matter of faith, but also one of rational and logical necessity. Whether viewed philosophically, theologically, or scripturally, the concept of Tawhid stands as the most coherent, consistent, and powerful explanation of the universe’s origin, order, and purpose.
