Argumentation from the Initial Creation for the Proof of Resurrection according to Wahbah al-Zuhayli: An Analytical Theological Study"

Abstract

This study explores the methodological and theological approach adopted by Wahbah al-Zuhayli in establishing the Islamic doctrine of resurrection (al-Baʿth) through the Qur’ānic argument of inference from the initial creation to re-creation, as presented in his renowned exegetical work Al-Tafsir Al-Munir. The research aims to analyze the intellectual foundations, exegetical principles, and rational dimensions underlying this argument, while highlighting its significance within contemporary Islamic theological discourse. The Qur’ān repeatedly employs the analogy between the first creation of humanity and its re-creation after death as a decisive rational proof for affirming resurrection and refuting the doubts of deniers. Al-Zuhayli presents this argument in a balanced and accessible manner, integrating textual evidence with sound rational reflection and demonstrating the harmony between revelation and reason. The study examines how al-Zuhayli derives theological implications from Qur’ānic verses that emphasize divine power, wisdom, and the observable realities of creation in nature and human existence. It further investigates the extent to which his methodology is rooted in the classical Sunni theological tradition while simultaneously reflecting a contemporary exegetical style that avoids excessive speculative theology and philosophical complexity. The research highlights his reliance on clear Qur’ānic reasoning, linguistic analysis, and logical coherence in proving the possibility and certainty of resurrection. Moreover, it discusses how al-Zuhayli reformulates traditional theological proofs in a way that addresses modern intellectual challenges, especially materialistic and secular claims denying the afterlife on the basis of empirical limitations and scientific reductionism. His interpretive methodology contributes significantly to renewing Islamic theological discourse and strengthening faith-based responses to modern ideological challenges related to resurrection and the afterlife.

Keywords: Resurrection, Origination of Creation, Theological Argumentation, Al-Tafsīr al-Munīr, Wahbah al-Zuḥaylī, Islamic Theology (ʿIlm al-Kalām).