IBN SINA/AVICENNA

Abstract

Ibn Sina (c. 980-1037), who is best known in the West as Avicenna, was born in Afshana near Bukhara in Central Asia. His formulation of various philosophical and theological problems had a lasting in uence upon Muslim and western thinkers, despite the heavy criticism his theories received. Regarding his philosophy of religion, four major topics may be underlined: (1) his argument for God's existence, (2) his understanding of God's properties and theological language, (3) divine providence, and (4) prophecy. His discussions concerning these topics indicate his efforts to provide a philosophical basis for monotheistic (Islamic) beliefs.