ভূমিকা
Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Discursive Theology Volume 1 Lesson 1: Why Should We Know God? The question being posed in the context of the ideological discussions about God is this: why should we know God? What is the factor that prompts man to delve into the existence of God? What is the benefit of doing so? What is the harm of not paying attention to it?
Two questions, therefore, must be examined here: What is the factor or factors that prompt man to delve into the existence of God? What is the benefit he may get in knowing God and having faith in Him? In reply to the first question, Muslim theologians have given answers which we shall examine here. The Need for Preventing Serious Losses No intelligent person will ever doubt the necessity for preventing serious harms.
The rule of “the necessity for preventing harm” is considered one of the most enduring principles in human life, and centuries of experience in human life affirm its endurance. Whenever the loss or harm is more serious, the said principle becomes more decisive and conspicuous. In this case, the probability of harm is already enough for man to think of ways to prevent loss.
On the other hand, throughout history, there had been outstanding personalities called prophets and Divine leaders who have emerged, talked about the existence of God, the Divine laws and decrees, and rewards and punishments in the Hereafter, and called upon the people to believe in those doctrines and they themselves were sincerely devoted to the religion while faithfully abiding by their words.
If ever from their words and actions there is no certainty about the existence of God, religion and Divine order, the probability of their existence becomes stronger. It is evident that if such probability is correct, not paying attention to it means incurring extremely great and miserable loss. As such, reason dictates and instinct decrees that one must not be indifferent toward this probability but rather one must discuss and investigate it.