Written and collected by Zia H Shah MD, Chief Editor of the Muslim Times

The cosmological argument, a cornerstone of philosophical theology, posits that the existence of the universe necessitates a transcendent cause—a “First Cause” or “Necessary Being.” The Quran, Islam’s sacred text, presents a profound and multifaceted cosmological argument, intertwining logic, observation, and spiritual reflection. Through its verses, the Quran invites humanity to ponder the origins, order, and purpose of the cosmos, asserting the existence of a singular, omnipotent Creator. This article explores how the Quran articulates this argument through its discourse on creation, contingency, and design.

1. The Universe’s Origin: A Definitive Beginning

The Quran frequently emphasizes that the universe had a definitive beginning, rejecting the notion of eternal existence. It underscores a moment of creation ex nihilo (from nothing), necessitating a Creator.

• “Have those who disbelieved not considered that the heavens and the earth were a joined entity, and We separated them…” (21:30).
  This verse alludes to the Big Bang theory, suggesting a singular origin point. The separation of “joined” heavens and earth implies a cosmic event requiring divine intervention.
• “He created the heavens and the earth in truth…” (6:73).
  The phrase “in truth” (بِالْحَقِّ) denotes intentionality, negating randomness and affirming purposeful creation.

2. Contingency and Dependency on a Necessary Being

The Quran argues that all existence is contingent, reliant on a self-sufficient Creator. The universe’s dependency on external laws and sustenance highlights its need for a Sustainer.

• “O mankind, you are those in need of Allah, while Allah is the Free of need, the Praiseworthy” (35:15).
  Human and cosmic dependence contrast with God’s self-sufficiency, reinforcing His role as the Necessary Being.
• “Is there a creator other than Allah who provides for you from the heaven and earth?” (35:3).
  This rhetorical question challenges the plausibility of multiple creators, emphasizing God’s singular provision.

3. Order and Purpose: The Teleological Dimension

While primarily cosmological, the Quran interweaves teleological elements, highlighting the universe’s precision as evidence of design.

• “The sun runs [its course] toward a stopping point. That is the determination of the Exalted in Might, the Knowing. And the moon—We have determined for it phases…” (36:38–39).
  Celestial order reflects deliberate design, negating chance.
• “We did not create the heaven and the earth and what is between them in play” (21:16).
  Creation’s purposefulness counters nihilism, aligning with a grand divine plan.

4. Refuting Alternative Explanations

The Quran preemptively addresses counterarguments, questioning the feasibility of self-creation or accidental existence.

• “Were they created by nothing, or were they the creators [of themselves]?” (52:35–36).
  This verse dismantles atheistic materialism, challenging the absurdity of self-creation or spontaneous generation.
• “If there were in them [the heavens and earth] gods besides Allah, they would both have been ruined…” (21:22).
  Polytheism is refuted through the universe’s unified order, which necessitates a single regulator.

5. Invitation to Reflection

The Quran repeatedly urges observation and reasoning, framing cosmology as a path to spiritual awakening.

• “Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding” (3:190).
  Cosmic phenomena are “signs” (آيَاتٍ) meant to inspire intellectual and spiritual inquiry.

Conclusion: A Holistic Argument

Through its vivid descriptions of creation, its logical questioning of the origins of the universe, and its call to both intellectual and spiritual reflection, the Qur’an offers a comprehensive cosmological argument for the existence of God. It guides its readers to understand that the intricate order of the cosmos, the inherent contingency of all that exists, and the undeniable presence of design all point toward a single, uncaused Creator. In this way, the Qur’an stands as not only a book of spiritual guidance but also as a profound invitation to explore the deep connections between faith, reason, and the natural world.

The Quran’s cosmological argument is holistic, addressing causation, contingency, order, and purpose. It challenges humanity to move beyond superficial observation, urging deep reflection on existence itself. By integrating empirical inquiry with metaphysical reasoning, the Quran posits a universe that is both a product of divine will and a testament to divine unity. In doing so, it offers a timeless invitation to recognize the Creator through the majesty of His creation. As stated in Surah Al-Hashr: “He is Allah, the Creator, the Inventor, the Fashioner; to Him belong the best names” (59:24). The universe, in its grandeur and intricacy, becomes a mirror reflecting the attributes of its Originator.

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