Ma`rifat Falsafi

Muslim thinkers -including theologians, philosophers, and mystics- have addressed the theory of creation, with mystics showing particular attention to this topic. Many authors in theoretical mysticism have presented the mystics’ view on creation through the framework of the “theory of manifestation.” This research has examined the works of mystics in a sub-structural and structural manner using library research and an “argumentative-critical” method. The novelty of this article lies in two aspects: First is a sub-structural examination: i.e. the mystics’ view which is based on the “theory of the unity of existence” (Wahdat al-Wujud). Numerous arguments have been presented for the unity of existence, with two arguments being more prevalent. This article raised new objections to these two arguments. Second is a structural examination: The latest revision of the “theory of manifestation,” recently proposed by some authors of theoretical mysticism unexamined yet, is scrutinized. The results of this research indicate that in proving the “theory of the unity of existence,” the fallacy of “confusing the accidental with the essential” (akhdh ma bil-'arad maqaam ma bil-dhat) and the “false premise” fallacy have occurred. In presenting the “theory of manifestation,” the fallacy of “equivocation” (ishtirak lafz) and the “begging the question” fallacy have been committed. Therefore, accepting this explanation faces challenges.