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Analyzing Life Events Based on Divine Providence and Human Free Will in Nahj al-Balagha

Authors: Masoumeh Ahmadi Motamayel; Ali Hossin Ehteshami; Seyed Hamid Hoseini;

Analyzing Life Events Based on Divine Providence and Human Free Will in Nahj al-Balagha

Abstract

The relationship between divine providence and human free will has always been among the most foundational and challenging themes in Islamic theology. This article, through an analytical-critical approach, explores the integration of these two concepts in Nahj al-Balagha and argues that Imam Ali presents a dialectical and balanced vision of their interrelation. Contrary to deterministic or libertarian perspectives, Imam Ali views divine will as a wise and encompassing framework within which human choice attains meaning. A semantic analysis of the terms mashīʾa (divine will) and ikhtiyār (free will) in classical theological and lexical sources offers a clearer understanding of his perspective. According to Imam Ali, while human will is not absolute, it remains real and accountable, forming the basis of moral responsibility and religious obligation. Through a detailed examination of sermons and letters in Nahj al-Balagha, this article demonstrates how Imam Ali distinguishes between mashīʾa in the ontological realm and ikhtiyār in the moral-legal realm, thereby offering a Shi‘a-based resolution to the classical dilemma of predestination and free will. Ultimately, the study emphasizes that belief in divine providence alongside human free will not only fosters inner peace and trust in God on the personal level but also cultivates responsibility, justice-seeking, and ethical conduct in collective life.

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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