It has failed to establish any argument for denying metaphysics...

It has failed to establish any argument for denying metaphysics, particularly on the basis of materialist epistemology, which is founded upon the principles of sense and experience. It is clear that no sense experience, which itself is matter, would be able to articulate in the domain of metaphysics and either deny or establish anything. The utmost thing stated in the logic of empiricism is, that existence beyond the physical realm cannot be established on its basis.

It should therefore at least accept the possibility of the existence of this realm. We have indicated earlier that it is possible for man to perceive various immaterial phenomena, which do not have the peculiarities of matter, such as spirit through the immediate knowledge (‘ilm hudūri). Furthermore several intellectual arguments have been established for proving the existence of the immaterial realm in the books of philosophy.

The best attestations for the existence of the immaterial spirit are the true dreams, several practices of the yogis, and also the miracles of the prophets (a) and saints. In any case the arguments mentioned in lesson seven and eight are sufficient enough for proving the existence and non-corporeality of God the Supreme. b. Investigating the second principle The second principle emphasises upon matter having no beginning or end and thus being uncreated.

Firstly, matter having no beginning or end cannot be scientifically or experimentally established. This is because the experimental dimensions are limited and no experiment can prove the infinity of the universe from the point of view of time and space. Secondly, the assumption that matter has no end does not necessitate it having no creator.

The assumption of a spatial movement requires the supposition of everlasting force from the moving agent, rather than not needing an impetus for the moving agent. In addition, matter uncreated implies that it is a necessary existent and we have already established in lesson eight that it is impossible for matter to be a necessary existent. c. Investigating the third principle This principle denies that the universe is purposeful.

This will naturally result in the denial of the existence of the Creator and consequently once the existence of God the Wise is proven this principle will be nullified.