Concept, Causes, and Intellectual Foundations of Atheism in the Light of the Holy Quran: A Research and Analytical Study

Document Type : Original Article

Author

shah abdul latif university khp

Abstract

In the contemporary era, atheism has emerged as a significant intellectual phenomenon, challenging religious doctrines, metaphysical realities, and moral frameworks. While atheism is predominantly analyzed through Western philosophical and scientific lenses, a comprehensive Quranic study remains relatively underexplored. This research presents an analytical study of the concept, causes, and intellectual foundations of atheism in the light of the Holy Quran, specifically drawing upon the Shi'ite exegetical tradition. Using qualitative textual analysis, the paper examines verses related to materialism, causality, skepticism, and the denial of the hereafter. The study reveals that the Quran characterizes atheism not merely as an intellectual denial but as a deviation from human nature (Fitrah), a byproduct of egoistic desires, arrogance, and an over-reliance on limited empirical knowledge. Furthermore, the paper analyzes the Quranic methodology in refuting modern atheistic objections such as the problem of evil and scientific determinism through rational discourse and the argument from design. Highlighting insights from authoritative Shi'ite commentaries like Al-Mizan and Tafsir Nemoneh, this research proves that the Quran offers a robust, rational, and universal framework that effectively addresses modern intellectual challenges.

Keywords

Main Subjects