Anthropomorphism according to Al-Ghazali (d. 1111) and Maimonides (d. 1204): A comparative discourse
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-1-2023
Abstract
The existence of `human-like' attributes and actions in the Qur'an and Hebrew Bible entails to various interpretations towards anthropomorphic verses among the Muslim and Jewish counterparts. Al-Ghazali and Maimonides in their discourses strongly affirmed the unity of God and refuted anthropomorphism. Therefore, this study expounded al-Ghazali and Maimonides' methods in affirming the incorporeality of God through outlining the similarities and differences in their interpretation. This study was qualitative in nature which analyses writings of al-Ghazali and Maimonides in encountering anthropomorphism. It can be deduced that both scholars were found to be employing allegorical interpretation with different level of interpretations in their attempts to repudiate the corporeal form of God. Alternatively, they both agree on the literalist's approach with conditions that one must not perceive God's essence in a bodily figure. Consequently, believing so will lead one to heresy. In sum, their emphasis on an incorporeal God brought them to similar interpretation despite their different religion and theological or philosophical orientation. Contribution: This article contributed to comparative theological study in understanding anthropomorphic verses through the discourse of al-Ghazali and Maimonides in Islam and Judaism, respectively.
Keywords
Anthropomorphism, Al-Ghazali, Maimonides, Incorporeality, Comparative analysis
Divisions
AcademyofIslamicStudies
Funders
None
Publication Title
HTS Teologiese Studies-Theological Studies
Volume
79
Issue
1
Publisher
AOSIS
Publisher Location
Postnet Suite 110, Private Bag x 19, Durbanville, SOUTH AFRICA