Definition and Meaning
Occasionalism is a philosophical and theological theory adopted by Ashari theology, primarily within the Sunni Islamic tradition. According to Occasionalism, all events in the world are attributed solely to the will and intervention of God (Allah). This means that natural causes and human actions are not direct results of antecedent events but rather occur because God wills them to happen at each moment. In simpler terms, any causation of one event by another is denied; it is God alone who causes every event to occur.
Etymology
The term “Occasionalism” derives from the Latin word “Occasio,” which means “opportunity” or “cause.” In the Islamic context, the term reflects the belief that God’s intervention is the ‘occasion’ for every event.
- Arabic: خلق دوالله (pronunciation: khalq dhaat Allah)
- Persian: خلق بندان (pronunciation: khalq-e bandaan)
- Urdu: وجود کے لئے خدا (pronunciation: wujood kay liye Khuda)
Background and Historical Facts
Historically, Occasionalism found its most complete and robust defense within Ashari theology, founded by the 10th-century theologian Abu al-Hasan al-Ashari. This theological stance emerged as a counter to the more deterministic views of the Mu’tazilites, another Islamic theological school that emphasized human free will.
Prominent Figures
- Al-Ghazali (1058-1111): Renowned theologian and philosopher, Al-Ghazali, advocated Occasionalism in his works, arguing against the philosophy of causality proposed by Aristotelian thought.
- Al-Ashari (873-935): The founder of Ashari theology, whose works laid the foundation for Occasionalism within Islamic thought.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities
- Islamic & Christian Theologies: Occasionalism in Islam can be likened to certain notions in Christian theology, where Divine Providence plays an essential role.
- Deism: Similar to deism in Western philosophy, which sees God as a prime mover but differ on ongoing divine intervention.
Differences
- Free Will Variations: Islamic Occasionalism differs fundamentally from Western ideas of free will, often creating a unique perspective on ethics and morality.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Divine Causality
- Divine Intervention
Antonyms:
- Naturalism
- Determinism
- Materialism
Related Terms with Definitions
- Ashari Theology: A school of thought within Sunni Islam founded by Al-Ashari, emphasizing God’s omnipotence and role in all events.
- Qadar ( قدر): The Islamic concept of predestination or divine destiny.
- Kalām: Islamic philosophical theology, involving the use of rational argumentation to defend faith.
Exciting Facts
- Debating Grounds: Occasionalism was a topic of heated debates between proponents of Ashari and Mu’tazilite philosophies for centuries.
- Interdisciplinary Appeal: Influences of Occasionalism can be traced in the works of medieval Christian philosopher Nicholas Malebranche.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Truly my prayer and my service of sacrifice, my life and my death, are (all) for Allah, the Cherisher of the Worlds.”
— Qurʾān 6:162
“God’s intervention isn’t to fill gaps in our understanding, it’s the very foundation of all existence and causality.”
— Al-Ghazali
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
- “The Incoherence of the Philosophers” by Al-Ghazali: A seminal text arguing against the causal determinism of Aristotelian philosophy.
- “Islamic Theology and Philosophy: Studies in Honor of George F. Hourani” edited by M. E. Marmura: Provides deep context and analysis on various Islamic theological concepts including Occasionalism.
- “Ashʿarism” by Richard M. Frank: This book delves into the complexities and intricacies of Ashari theology including concepts of divine causality.
Farewell Thought
In the tapestry of theology, Occasionalism evokes the delicate interplay between divine power and worldly events. It invites one to ponder the breadth of God’s involvement in life’s minutiae and the grander scheme alike.
May your journey through the fields of Islamic theology illuminate the profound intersections of faith and reason.
Written by Ibrahim Al-Rashidi on October 25, 2023
