Ibn Arabi: Time and Cosmology (Book)

Muhammad Hacı Yusuf’s work Ibn al-Arabi: Time and Cosmology examines Ibn al-Arabi’s concepts of time and universe by comparing these ideas with modern scientific theories. The book particularly highlights Ibn al-Arabi’s concept of “ân-ı dâim.” This concept posits that time exists as a continuously renewed and unbroken “one.” According to the Islamic thinker, past and future converge within this perpetual “an,” and this perspective exhibits certain parallels with modern scientific theories such as quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity such as. The book suggests that these parallels may contribute to a deeper understanding of some fundamental paradoxes in modern physics.

Work, by interpreting Quranic verses concerning cosmology in Law, presents a original cosmological model in which time and space are understood as an integrated whole. This model offers a new perspective on scientific and philosophical debates such as the EPR paradox and Zeno’s paradox.

Themes in the Book “Ibn al-Arabi: Time and Cosmology”

1. The Nature and Concept of Time

• Ân-ı Dâim (Continuous An): According to Ibn al-Arabi, time exists as an unbroken and continuously renewed “an.” Past and future merge within this perpetual “an.”
• Temporal Relationship: Time is emphasized not merely as a physical phenomenon but also as having a metaphysical dimension.

2. Cosmology and the Structure of the Universe

• Levels of Existence: In Ibn al-Arabi’s understanding of existence, the universe is organized into distinct levels or stages. These levels manifest through the revelation of God’s names and attributes.
• Celestial Bodies and Time: A profound connection is established between the motion of celestial bodies and the perception of time within the functioning of the universe.

3. Metaphysical and Ontological Dimensions

• Balance of Existence and Nonexistence: Ibn al-Arabi argues that existence and nonexistence are in fact different dimensions of the same reality. Time is viewed as the primary medium of transition between these two elements.
• Imagination (Hayâl): According to Ibn al-Arabi, imagination plays a central role in comprehending time and space, serving as a bridge between human consciousness and the universe.

4. Interpretation of the Quran and Hadith

• Cosmological Verses: Verses in the Quran concerning time and space are interpreted, and their understanding from a Sufi perspective is explained.
• Resurrection and the Afterlife: The book emphasizes the concept of time’s ultimate end and resurrection, reinforcing the cyclical and continuous nature of time.

5. Comparison with Scientific Paradigms

• Quantum Mechanics: Ibn al-Arabi’s concept of ân-ı dâim is noted to bear similarities with the instantaneous changes observed in quantum theory.
• Theory of Relativity: Efforts are made to draw parallels between modern physical findings regarding the relative nature of time and Ibn al-Arabi’s views.

6. The Doctrine of Wahdat al-Wujud

Unity-i existence (the oneness of existence) in Islamic Sufism expresses the belief that all beings are manifestations of a single reality, namely Allah. According to this view, apparent multiplicity is merely different expressions of one singular existence. Ibn al-Arabi interprets the concept of wahdat al-wujud within the context of the creation and operation of the universe. For him, God is uniquely and absolutely one, and all entities in the universe are manifestations of His names and attributes. From this perspective, time and space are also reflections of these divine manifestations.

The book also examines Ibn al-Arabi’s concept of “ân-ı dâim” (continuous an) within this framework. This concept asserts that time exists as an unbroken and perpetual “an,” in which past and future continuously converge. It emphasizes that all existence and time are in fact different dimensions of a single reality.

7. Creation

According to Ibn al-Arabi, the creation of the universe occurred through the manifestation of God’s names and attributes. These manifestations appear at different levels known as entity stages, each representing a reflection of one of God’s names. Arabî refers to the creation of the universe as “continuous creation.” Under this view, God perpetually creates at every moment, and creation is an uninterrupted process. Time and space are regarded as dimensions of this continuous creation. The understanding of time as a continuously renewed “ân-ı dâim” (continuous an) demonstrates that the universe is in a state of perpetual and ongoing creation.

The book also notes that Sufi thinkers emphasize the transition from material time to spiritual time in grasping the true nature of time. According to them, perceiving this reality and attaining the “ân-ı dâim” becomes possible for one who progresses along the Right path. In this context, the concepts of beginning (before) and end (âhir) are said to converge within the perpetual “an.” Reference is made to the saying of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), “There is neither morning nor evening with your Lord,” illustrating how a person who reaches this spiritual level can traverse immense long distances within a single short temporal moment.