ʿAql
Definition
The aql — intellect or reason — is the distinctively human faculty that distinguishes the human being from animals and that, when properly oriented, is one of the most powerful tools for the spiritual ascent. Al-Ghazali values the aql highly but carefully limits its domain: it is the servant of the heart, not its master; it can understand what revelation presents and help implement what it prescribes, but it cannot on its own arrive at the ultimate spiritual truths that only divine guidance can provide. The aql that submits to revelation is one of the heart's greatest assets; the aql that sets itself up as an independent authority over revelation is one of its greatest dangers.
As understood in the classical tradition of Imam al-Ghazali and the scholars of his school.
Appears in
1 book in the library
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