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Let us take a look at this subject and reflect on this topic;
Yes, we Muslims believe without any single doubt that there is only one God ("There is no god but God").
This line of reasoning makes sense and there is a common argument used in various theological and philosophical discussions to support the belief in the oneness of God. This approach, known as the argument from harmony or the argument from the unity of creation, posits that uniformity and order in the natural world indicate a single, unifying source or creator. Here's how this argument can be elaborated:
Argument from Harmony and Order
1- Uniformity in Creation:
The observation that all humans share a common structure and function—such as having one head, two arms, two legs, and similar internal systems—suggests a uniform design. If multiple gods with equal power existed, it would be plausible to expect diverse and competing designs.
2- Lack of Contradiction:
In a universe governed by multiple gods, each with ultimate power, we would likely see contradictions and conflicts in the natural order. For instance, different gods might create different laws of physics or biological processes, leading to chaos and inconsistency.
3- Purposeful Design:
The intricate and purposeful design of living organisms and ecosystems points to a single, intelligent designer. The complexity and interdependence observed in nature indicate a cohesive plan rather than multiple competing plans.
4- Harmony and Balance:
The natural world operates in a state of balance and harmony. Ecosystems, planetary orbits, and biological processes are finely tuned to support life. This balance suggests a single orchestrating force rather than multiple, potentially conflicting forces.
Counterarguments and Responses
Polytheistic Perspectives:
Some might argue that polytheistic systems do exist and offer explanations for order and harmony through cooperation among gods. However, the lack of observable conflict and inconsistency in natural laws remains a strong point for monotheism.
Complexity and Diversity:
Others might point to the diversity within species and ecosystems as evidence of multiple designers. However, the underlying unity and consistency in the principles governing this diversity (e.g., genetic code, evolutionary processes) reinforce the idea of a single source.
Philosophical and Theological Support
1- Occam's Razor:
Philosophically, Occam's Razor suggests that the simplest explanation, requiring the fewest assumptions, is usually the correct one. The existence of one God is simpler than the existence of multiple gods with complex interactions.
2- Theological Doctrine:
Many religious traditions emphasize the oneness of God as a foundational belief. For example, the Shema in Judaism ("Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one")*, the Nicene Creed in Christianity**, and the Shahada in Islam ("There is no god but God").
Conclusion
The argument from the harmony and order of the universe provides a compelling case for the oneness of God. The consistent and unified design observed in creation aligns with the concept of a single, all-powerful creator. While alternative views exist, the coherence and simplicity of monotheism offer a robust explanation for the uniformity and order we observe in the world.
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* "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one" is the first verse of the Shema Yisrael, a central Jewish prayer that is recited twice a day in the morning and evening services. The verse is found in Deuteronomy 6:4 and is considered the main confession of Jewish faith. The Shema expresses belief in the oneness and incomparability of God.
** The Nicene Creed is a Christian profession of faith that expresses Catholic beliefs. It was created in response to the teachings of Arius, a clergyman who denied Jesus' divinity and was first presented at the Council of Nicaea in 325. The creed was further revised at the Council of Constantinople in 381 and accepted in its final form at the Council of Chalcedon in 451.