A Typology of Islamic Approach to the Embodiment of Deeds

The argument on the relationship between the action and reaction has long been an issue of importance for both the public and the scholar; that man^, s deeds would not disappear, accompanying its doer not only in the present world but also in the coming one. On the other hand the origin and destination (Resurrection) constitutes an integral part of the doctrine of every Muslim, including the quality of the embodiment of deeds, rewards and punishments on the Day of Judgment. Based on their personal approaches and presuppositions toward the embodiment of deeds, Muslim scholars have maintained a variety of positions about it a typology of which seems necessary. Throughout their interpretations of the verses of the Holy Quran relating the embodiment of deeds, Muslim exegetists also tried to answer whether the embodiment of deeds is the same as observing them on one^, s board of deeds or as reward and punishment? Hadith scholars also had serious arguments over the hadiths regarding the embodiment of deeds, some considering the language of the hadiths as a metaphorical one and some other believing in the mortality of man^, s deeds. Muslim philosophers and theologians also discussed over the issue from a philosophical point of view, some to prove it through the principle of stability of the effects of deeds and some other to deny it. Muslim mystics also tried to prove the possibility of the embodiment of deeds, employing the principle of intention of action. Also nowadays modern scientists try to examine the possibility of the embodiment of deeds through the thermodynamic rules such as the stability and inter-transformation of material and energy or some other biological ones. Finally it could be included that the possibility of the embodiment of deeds seems provable through various scientific methods and believing in it clearly affects the quality of man^, s life.