ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Islamic Doctrine The Characteristics of God It is now established that God is the cause of existence of the universe, hence it cannot be said that He is limited in a space or time. His characteristics can be envisaged through His work. It is seen that there is a good order and purpose in the world, hence He is wise. There are great forces in the universe, therefore He is powerful, etc. Evil is a word which has a relative meaning.

God's acts, and His work are perfect in every respect. They contain all the factors of mercy and benevolence. Evil is a deficiency which cannot be attributed to God. If someone gives ten pounds, then takes one pound back he is still generous and good. God is one. If it is assumed that there are many then they should have either the same will or different wills. If they have the same will, then there is no meaning in saying they are many.

If it is assumed that they have differ- ent wills, then they are either equal or differ- ent. When they are equal, then the limit of their behaviour is the same, and consequently they have the same will. When they have differ- ent powers, then the strongest will overcome the weakest. God is just. Injustice is a weakness which cannot be attributed to the Creator, who is perfect in every respect. 1. Islamism and Prophecy The word "Islam" has two concepts.

The first concept could be realised linguistically. The Arabic word "isldm" means "submitting willingly." It refers to the submission to God in general, and in this sense it includes all the religions and looking at it from a still broader view it includes all non-willing objects. The second concept is a formal definition which refers to Islam as a community and any person who declares "There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah," is a Muslim.

Islam fits man's nature and is in harmony with his needs and hopes. Human experience shows that it is harmful to behave against one's nature. For example, not getting married and wronging others. Religion calls this state "sin." It is an empirical experience that being in harmony with natural laws (God's laws) is a good thing, for instance being truthful, trust- worthy, kind righteous, etc.

Religion calls this state "good." Prophecy is necessary for the following reasons: i) Man is distinguished from animals by his mental capacity and freedom of choice. The mental capacity is high but limited.