Wisdom and Causality in Divine Action According to Al-Hakim At-Tirmizi and Its Influence on Later Theologians

Mohamad Abd Al-Aziz Meshaal
Department of Creed and Philosophy, Faculty of Usul Ad-Deen, Tanta, Al-Azhar University, Egypt
Email: mohamedabdelaziz.el.64@azhar.edu.eg  | mashaal.88@gmail.com
Abstract:
 This study aims to examine Al-Hakim At-Tirmizi’s position on the notion of causality (talil) in relation to the divine acts of God. At-Tirmizi was one of the early scholars who devoted significant attention to the idea of divine causality and the associated objectives (maqaṣid) of Sharia. Contrary to the dominant view of his time, which denied causality in Gods actions, At-Tirmizi presented an alternative perspective affirming the presence of wisdom and purpose behind divine acts. He went further by analyzing rituals and legislations to highlight their wisdom and intended outcomes. This paper explores this critical issue within Islamic theological thought, delving into At-Tirmizi’s views, the foundations upon which he built his arguments, and the extent to which later scholars were influenced by his thought. The study employs analytical methodology. Among the key findings of this research are the following:The Asharites do not deny that Gods actions contain wisdom; rather, they reject that such wisdom constitutes a cause or reason (illah) for His actions.The Maturidites affirm the necessity of wisdom in divine acts, though they see it as an act of divine grace and not obligation.The Mutazilites affirm divine causality and assert that Gods actions aim to benefit creation. Ibn Taymiyyah extended this by asserting that Gods actions also have a purpose that pertains to the Creator Himself.According to Al-Hakim At-Tirmizi, divine action is never devoid of wisdom; all decrees upon creation proceed from divine wisdom.Reason (aql) holds a prominent role in At-Tirmizi’s approach to discerning causality.His affirmation of causality is rooted in his conception of divine justice.The Sufi dimension of At-Tirmizi’s thought contributed to his emphasis on wisdom and the advantages of divine legislation. Later scholars such as the Maturidites, Al-Ghazali, and Ibn Taymiyyah were influenced by At-Tirmizi’s views, albeit with differing interpretations and emphases.