The Terminology of Origination (Ibda‘) in Ismaili Theology in the Fatimid Period

Abstract

Although all Muslim philosophers have considered origination (Ibda'), it has received specific attention in Ismaili theology. Famous Ismaili personalities and groups such as al-Nasafi, Abu Hatam al-Razi, al-Sijistani, Ikhwan Al-Safa, al-Kermani, and Nasir Khusraw have paid considerable attention to its interpretation. This study, which is limited to Ismaili views in the Fatimid period, provides the reader with the following findings: Ismaili theologians disagree on the components of its definition, on differentiation (Tafsil) and undifferentiation (Ijmal) of these components and on what beings belong to the divine origination; It seems that Ismaili theologians equate origination (Ibda') with invention (Ikhtira'), but they are not clear on its relation to other concepts such as creation (Khalq), command (Amr), emanation (Inbi'ath), will (Iradah), composition (Tarkib), and making (Sun'). Referring to Ismaili theologians' books and treatises, this study has described and analyzed these issues.

Keywords

• origination (ibda‘)
• ismailism
• creation (khalq)
• command (amr)
• first intellect
• soul (nafs)