The influence of Imam al-Juwayni on the theology of Imam al-Ghazali

Abstract

This thesis seeks to study in depth the influence of Imam al-Juwayni on Imam al-Ghazali's discussion of theology and whether or not the latter's ideas are properly derived from the former. The first chapter deals with an analysis of the life of both the Imams against the background of the religious milieu of their time. The second chapter discuss the views of the two Imams on Ilm al-Kalam. The third chapter attempts to compare and contrast Imam al-Juwayni's and Imam al- Ghazali's approach to the doctrine of the origin of the world and the existence of God. In the fourth chapter we assess the views of the two Imams on the problem of the attributes of God. The fifth chapter deals with the question of human actions and free will. The final chapter present their views on prophethood and messengership. While many Islamic scholars have a vague notion that Imam al-Ghazali's ideas on theology depend heavily upon Imam al-Juwayni, this thesis attempts to prove that Imam al-Ghazali's theological position and views have been greatly influenced by his teacher, Imam al-Juwayni. This work sets out to show this in detail.