he issue of how multiplicity emanates from a single source is a central question in Islamic philosophy and mysticism. The principle of the One suggests that a single cause produces only one effect, while multiplicity is self-evident. Peripatetic philosophers addressed this through the emanation of successive intellects, while Illuminationist philosophy introduced the concept of the "nearest light." In theoretical mysticism, the First Emanation is seen as the Muḥammadan Reality, the first absolute manifestation. Ṣadr al-Dīn al-Qūnawī views the First Emanation as an absolute, simple reality, with the First Intellect being one of its manifestations. Fanārī critiques the Peripatetics, describing the First Emanation as pure existence without quiddity. Mullā Ṣadrā reconciles these views through his doctrine of the unity of existence and causal analysis, identifying the First Intellect with the First Emanation. This article examines and compares Qūnawī’s and Mullā Ṣadrā’s perspectives.

Keywords: First origin, First intellect, Expanded existence, Qonavi, Mulla Sadra

     

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