Concept
Jami's Distinction Between Existential and Prescriptive Commands
In Section 46 of Subhat al-Abrar (from the Haft Awrang), Jami outlines two distinct forms of divine commands:
- Existential Command (Amr-i Ijadi): This is the creative command 'Be' ('Kun') which instantly brings things into existence. Because it acts as a direct cause, the outcome is ontologically necessary and cannot deviate from the command.
- Prescriptive Command (Amr-i Ijabi): This consists of religious laws, duties, and prohibitions ('Do' and 'Do not'). Since humans are endowed with agency and varying capacities, deviation from this command is possible.
This distinction is crucial for Jami's reconciliation of absolute divine sovereignty with human moral responsibility.
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Updated 2026-07-06
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Humanities
Literature
Persian Literature Prerequisite Course