The Epistemological Status of Intellect in the Book of Causes (al-Īḍāḥ fī al-Khayr al-Maḥḍ Attributed to Aristotle)

Document Type : Research

Author

Associated Professor, Department of Islamic Philosophy and Theology, Payame noor University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

The topic of the intellect (‘aql) is discussed in various chapters of the Book of Causes (Kitāb al-‘Ilal). This article aims to investigate the epistemological status of the intellect: Does the intellect exist within the human soul as the rational soul (nafs-e nāṭeqah), in addition to being the first creation and the first effect? What is the epistemological status of the intellect in the Book of Causes? By clarifying these questions, one can also examine the function of the intellect. In this article, using a descriptive-analytical method based on various chapters of Thomas Aquinas's commentary on the Book of Causes, the following findings were reached: The Book of Causes has neglected to discuss the human rational soul. However, according to the nature and essence of the intellect itself, its function is thinking and knowing; and as the second level of existence and the first effect—a divine intellect—its function is governance (cosmic administration). The objects of the intellect are things higher and lower than it, and it involves the knowledge of intellects and eternal things as well as the intellect's knowledge of itself.

Keywords

References

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Islamic Philosophical Doctrines
Volume 19, Issue 35
December 2024
Pages 85-106

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History

  • Receive Date: 06 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 06 October 2025
  • Accept Date: 21 October 2025
  • Publish Date: 21 December 2024

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