Anthropology and metaphysics of Islam in a comparative perspective

Fundacja Dobre Państwo • January 6, 2026 • 🇵🇱 Polski

Introduction

The Islamic vision of humanity requires a comparative and hermeneutic analysis that accounts for both revealed text and tradition. This article explores this perspective, from the metaphysics of tawhid (unity), through the anthropology of fitra (primordial nature) and the dignity of khalifa (vicegerency), to the role of reason and speech. Central to this view is the dual nature of the human being: created from clay yet endowed with the divine breath. The key idea of fitra defines the human as a being striving for harmony, for whom revelation serves as an essential reminder of their true identity.

Fitra: Primordial Nature as the Foundation of Anthropology

The foundation of Islamic anthropology is fitra—an innate disposition toward goodness and God. Islam does not recognize the concept of original sin; the source of alienation is ghafla (forgetfulness). Religion thus functions as anamnesis, restoring awareness of the primordial covenant.

Khalifa: Man as God's Vicegerent on Earth

The category of khalifa defines the human being as God's "deputy" or vicegerent. Although Islam strictly guards transcendence (tanzih), the human is a "locus of theophany" in which the divine names are reflected. This

Summary

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the anthropology and metaphysics of Islam, set within the broad context of comparative religious studies. The authors examine the fundamental principle of God's unity (tawḥīd) and its influence on the perception of the relationship between transcendence and immanence in Muslim thought. A key element of this discussion is the Quranic vision of man as a being with a dual nature, combining matter with divine inspiration, which defines his role as a vicegerent (khalīfa) on earth. The text explores important concepts such as fitra (primordial nature) and ʿaql (reason), analyzing their function in cognitive and ethical processes. Through a comparison with Abrahamic traditions, the publication sheds new light on issues of free will, sin, and the mechanisms of revelation. This compendium of knowledge is intended for those seeking to understand how Islam defines the human condition and the tasks it places upon individuals within the community (umma).

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Islamic concept of man differ from the Christian one?

Islam rejects the doctrine of original sin, considering man to be an inherently good being (fitra) who requires only a reminder of his identity, not metaphysical correction.

What is the function of reason (ʿaql) in Muslim theology?

Reason is treated as a criterion of moral responsibility (taklīf) and a tool enabling us to recognize the unity of God and to properly interpret revelation.

What is the role of a human being as a khalīfa?

As khalīfa (governor), man is tasked with governing the world on God's behalf, using divine gifts such as will, intelligence, and speech.

Why is tawhīd crucial for understanding Islamic culture?

Because it abolishes the division into the sacred and secular spheres, integrating law, art, science and everyday life into one coherent system subordinated to the unity of God.

What is religion in the context of anamnesis in Islam?

Islam sees religion as a pedagogy of attention that, through revelation, helps man to remember the original covenant with God, which he forgot in the state of ghafla.

Introduction

Fitra: Primordial Nature as the Foundation of Anthropology

Khalifa: Man as God's Vicegerent on Earth

Frequently Asked Questions

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