The Suit of Independence from Revelation in Ibn Ṭufayl’s Ḥayy ibn Yaqẓān. Analytical Study

This study aims to explore the epistemological, ontological, and metaphysical dimensions in Ḥayy ibn Yaqẓān, and to demonstrate that divine revelation cannot be dispensed with in affirming the existence of God, since there is no contradiction between sound reason and authentic transmitted revelation in this regard. The significance of this topic lies in the fact that the story of Ḥayy ibn Yaqẓān represents a rational argument and a natural proof for the existence of God, while also emphasizing the necessity of guidance through revelation in order to understand the divine law and the proper manner of worship as ordained by God. The study adopts the analytical method, and its structure consists of an introduction, a preliminary section, and three main chapters. The preliminary section provides an introduction to Ibn Ṭufayl, while the first chapter examines the epistemological and ontological dimensions in the story of Ḥayy ibn Yaqẓān. The second chapter addresses Ibn Ṭufayl’s metaphysical perspective as reflected in the narrative, whereas the third chapter discusses the connection and relationship between reason and revelation in Ibn Ṭufayl’s thought, as well as the views of scholars on this issue. The study reaches several conclusions, among which is that Ibn Ṭufayl sought to construct a philosophical system that could be presented in a gradual and systematic manner, demonstrating how the human being progresses through reflection and contemplation—from understanding the surrounding material world— until ultimately arriving, through the path of reason, at knowledge of God.