Definition
Kaʿbīyah (كعبية): Kaʿbīyah refers to a sect of Islam established by Abū Qāsim Muḥammad ibn al-Kaʿbī, an influential figure within the Muʿtazilī tradition. This sect distinguishes itself by asserting that the acts of God are without purpose, will, or desire.
Etymology
The term “Kaʿbīyah” originates from the name of its founder, Abū Qāsim Muḥammad ibn al-Kaʿbī (d. 931 CE), also known as al-Kaʿbī. The Arabic root “ك-ع-ب” (k-ʿ-b) closely ties to his lineage rather than providing semantic meaning relevant to the sect’s beliefs.
Background
Kaʿbīyah emerged against the backdrop of 9th-century Bag͟hdād, during a period of intense theological discourse within Islam. Their theological stance stemmed from the Muʿtazilī school, emphasizing reason and rationality over traditionalist views. The Kaʿbīyah sect is particularly noted for its assertion that God’s actions lack definitive purpose, will, or desire—contrary to mainstream Islamic thought, which typically ascribes purposefulness to divine actions.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Kaʿbīyah shares its rationalist foundations with the broader Muʿtazilī movement, emphasizing the primacy of reason in understanding faith. In contrast, mainstream Sunni and Shia traditions generally regard God’s actions as inherently purposeful and reflective of divine wisdom and intent. These differences foreground significant theological debates within the Islamic tradition.
Synonyms
- Kaʿbī: A direct term referring to the followers of al-Kaʿbī’s theological views.
Antonyms
- Ashʿarīyah: A theological school opposing many Muʿtazilī views, emphasizing divine omnipotence and transcendence.
Related Terms
- Muʿtazilī: Refers to a school of Islamic theology advocating the use of rationality and reason.
- Al-Qadar: The concept of divine will and predestination in Islam.
Exciting Facts
- Founder’s Legacy: Al-Kaʿbī was a prolific writer and debater, contributing significantly to the development of Muʿtazilī thought.
- Intellectual Debates: The Kaʿbīyah participated in vibrant theological discussions that shaped Islamic exegesis and jurisprudence.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Athīr al-Dīn al-Ṭụ̄sī: “In the labyrinth of divine will and human reason, al-Kaʿbī chose the path where God remains an enigma of timeless abstraction.”
References and Suggested Literature
- “The Mu’tazilite Movement (Encounters with Islamic Rationalism)” by Mohamed Cherif
- “Islamic Theological Rationalism: A History of Muʿtazilism” by Sophia Vassilopoulou
- “Divine Simplicity and Theology in Islam” by Nader El-Bizri
Quiz Section
Date: 2023-10-03
Author: Ibrahim Al-Sahari
Inspirational Thought: “In the realms of faith, exploring diverse traditions enlightens us about the infinite facets of divine understanding.”
Embrace the wisdom of various Islamic theological perspectives, and may this journey elevate your insights and knowledge.
