Al-Huduth wa al-Qidam

The implications of Al-Huduth are profound, leading to critical reflections on the creator-creature relationship. In Shia theology, everything that is created, including the heavens and the earth, is contingent. This raises inquiries about the nature of existence. Why was the universe created? What governs its existence? The response rests in the assertion that the universe, being contingent, emanates from an absolute, uncaused reality, which is Allah, embodying Al-Qidam.

3. Theological Perspectives

In the theological sphere, the notion of Al-Huduth wa al-Qidam delineates a clear boundary between Allah and His creation. The Shia belief maintains that attributing Al-Qidam to anything other than Allah results in polytheism or shirk. This doctrine is foundational in articulating God’s uniqueness and transcendence. Shia scholars often reference Qur’anic verses and Hadiths to fortify their understanding of these concepts, noting that any creation’s dependence is a testament to Al-Huduth’s reality.