Divine Creativity and Pluralism in Allama Iqbal’s Philosophy

A Comparative Study of Egos, Atomism, and Leibnizian Monads

Abstract

This article explores Allama Iqbal’s philosophical pluralism, particularly in his understanding of the universe as composed of egos, or self-revealing entities, grounded in his monotheistic faith. Iqbal, through his critique of the Ash’arite atomism and engagement with Leibniz’s monads, proposes that all reality, from matter to human consciousness, is a manifestation of the Divine Ego or “Great I Am.” His concept of God as a creative, self-revealing entity aligns with an evolving universe, wherein all egos—whether material or spiritual—progress toward self-consciousness, culminating in humanity’s unique capacity for individual selfhood. By synthesizing metaphysical insights from the Qur’an with contemporary Western philosophies like Leibniz’s monadology, Iqbal refutes static dualism and suggests a dynamic interaction between mind and body, and between God and creation. His ideas emphasize the non-material nature of the self and its potential for spiritual evolution, challenging reductionist materialism and highlighting the continuous, creative process of existence driven by Divine energy. Ultimately, Iqbal’s thought reflects a theistic framework that integrates both religious and philosophical perspectives on the nature of reality and the self.