Kozmolojik argümanda sonsuz geriye gidiş problemi: Îcî'nin Mevâkıf adlı eserinin analizi (Mevkıf II, Mersad V, Maksat VIII)

This paper aims to discuss the problem of infinite regress that arises out of the cosmological argument for theism in light of the views of the Persian theologian and philosopher Aḍud al-Dīn al-Ījī (1281–1355). I shall explore al-Ījī's argument against an infinite series of causes and effects (tasalsul al-'ilal wa al-ma'lūlāt ilā ghayr al-nihāya) in his primary work al-Mawāqif fī 'Ilm al-Kalām ('Positions in Theology'). The sort of approach I am taking is a critical analysis and comparative approach of sorts. I begin by presenting a brief sketch of the cosmological argument and the problem of infinite regress that arises out of it. Consequently, I will analyze, interpret, and evaluate al-Ījī's five arguments against the possibility of an infinite series of causes and effects presented in his Mawāqif in the section Mawqif II, Marsad V, Maqsad VIII. Apart from identifying the strengths and limitations of al-Ījī's reasons in comparison to other arguments for and against an infinite regress, possible objections to his argument shall also be addressed adequately.