The attribute of independence (self-sufficiency) is particularly compelling. The Necessary Being does not rely on anything; it is the font from which all existence flows. This self-existence establishes a profound relationship between the divine and the universe. The contingent universe is like a beautiful painting; while the artist is essential for its creation, the painting itself carries an essence derived from and dependent upon the artist’s vision and skill. The interplay between the Necessary Being and the contingent beings is reminiscent of such artistry—the divine articulates existence through the contingent form, imbuing it with meaning and purpose.
Moreover, the theological discourse surrounding the concept of the Necessary Being in Shia Islam invokes the notion of timelessness. Time, constrained by measures and moments, does not bind the Necessary Being; rather, divine existence transcends temporal limitations. This timeless quality underscores the perennial relevance of the Necessary Being in guiding moral and ethical conduct within the contingent world. The divine attributes serve not only as a theoretical framework but emerge as practical capabilities enabling human beings to engage with spirituality and ethics more profoundly.
In Shia teachings, the connection between humanity and the Necessary Being is articulated through the lens of a profound relationship. Believers are encouraged to contemplate their existence in relation to the divine. Human beings, seen as mirrors reflecting the divine attributes, are invited to embody qualities akin to those of the Necessary Being—compassion, justice, and wisdom. The idea is not merely to recognize the greatness of the Necessary Being but rather to forge a pathway toward aspiring to divine likeness, thus elevating one’s own existence amid the contingent realm.
