What is the role of intellect in choosing faith?

In the life-giving school of Islam, intellect (Aql) holds an unparalleled and extraordinarily lofty position. Contrary to widespread misconceptions that portray religion as being in opposition to reason, Islam not only does not deny intellect but rather introduces it as a vital tool for understanding truths and attaining true faith. The Holy Quran repeatedly invites humanity to reflect, ponder, understand, and learn lessons from the divine signs in the cosmos and within themselves. These invitations are clear evidence of the crucial role of intellect in the process of choosing faith. Intellect is the first inner prophet of humanity, placed by God as a guiding light within every individual. The primary function of this light is to distinguish truth from falsehood, guidance from error, and reality from illusion. Faith in Islam is not a blind, mere imitation; rather, it is a faith built upon knowledge, understanding, and conviction. This knowledge and understanding can only be achieved through the proper use of the faculty of intellect. God, in the Quran, consistently expounds His verses to those who use their intellect, stating: "Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought" (Surah Ar-Rum, verse 24). Such statements indicate that true faith is the result of an intellectual and reflective journey, not merely an inheritance or fleeting emotions. The Holy Quran is replete with verses that call upon humans to observe and contemplate the universe: from the creation of the heavens and the earth, the alternation of night and day, the movement of ships across the sea, the descent of rain, the growth of plants, the life and death of beings, and even the intricate structure of human existence itself. All these are 'ayat' or 'signs' of God, which a sound intellect, by pondering upon them, can discern the existence of a Wise and Powerful Creator. This perspective transforms faith from an abstract, detached concept into a tangible and comprehensible reality. Intellect, in this journey, acts as a bridge that leads humanity from the material world to the truth of Tawhid (Oneness of God) and His uniqueness. Furthermore, intellect plays a central role in comprehending and understanding divine revelation. The Quran introduces itself as a 'Mubin' (clear explainer) and invites people to ponder over it to grasp its secrets and truths. This contemplation is impossible without employing intellect and thought. Divine commandments and injunctions, though seemingly mere orders on the surface, inherently possess wisdoms and expediencies, many of which a sound intellect can discover. This discovery deepens faith and obedience to divine commands. Those who act without thought and intellect, based solely on superficialities, will never reach the depths of faith and gnosis. One of the most crucial functions of intellect is to combat blind imitation and ignorant prejudices. The Quran strongly condemns those who follow the ways and beliefs of their predecessors without investigation or reason. This ignorant imitation is one of the main obstacles to the growth of intellect and the attainment of sound faith. Intellect empowers individuals to break free from the shackles of prejudice, seek truth, and, if necessary, question and correct their erroneous beliefs. This intellectual freedom, which intellect brings, provides the necessary ground for a conscious choice of faith. It is important to note, however, that the role of intellect in choosing faith does not imply independence from revelation. Intellect is like an eye that perceives the light of revelation. Human intellect has limitations and cannot, on its own, discover all the truths of the unseen world or the specifics of Islamic law. It is here that divine revelation complements intellect, perfecting the path of guidance. True faith is where intellect, after inquiry and reflection, acknowledges its limitations and, with confidence and submission, receives truth from the source of divine revelation. This submission is not irrational surrender, but a rational one that understands that the source of divine knowledge transcends human capabilities. In conclusion, intellect serves as the foundation and prerequisite for faith. These two are not in opposition but are complementary to each other. Faith that is not based on intellect and wisdom is fragile and cannot withstand doubts, and an intellect not illuminated by the light of faith may stray in the complexities of life. Therefore, intellect is the tool for evaluating, analyzing, and understanding the signs and revelation, leading humanity towards a deep, stable, and well-reasoned faith, and this faith, in turn, guides intellect on the right path and saves it from bewilderment.