Knowledge by Presence: Its History, Truth, and Criteria

Despite its basic role and long history, the idea of "knowledge by presence" is not dealt with the way it worth it. In the history of Islamic philosophy and theology, the idea of knowledge by presence (or intuition) goes back to Fārābi. It seems that Ibn Sinā was the first philosopher to introduce this idea more clearly after Fārābi. He applies it to his philosophical system, developing a deep evolution in philosophy and epistemology. Then adding more instances, Shaykh Ishrāq expands the purview of knowledge by presence. His viewpoint represents a turning point, which culminates in its general acceptance among Muslim philosophers.In this article, the author brings together various definitions and criteria for knowledge by presence from a wide range of perspectives, and concludes that the criteria for its realization are connection and presence. But the question remains as to what is the origin of such a connection and presence. Different possible answers to this question are produced.