The principle that divine truth flows from a single source to different levels of reality.
Emanation is a concept found in the works of early Islamic thinkers (influenced by neo-Platonic philosophers like Plotinus). It posits that truth is not something humans “invent” but something that flows, or emanates, from the divine source.
The levels of emanation:
- Divine Source: The ultimate, absolute truth (al-haqq).
- Intellectual Realm: The first level of realization, where truth becomes perceived by the soul.
- Material World: The physical expression of this truth, which is always secondary to its spiritual source.
In the universal prosperity model, true prosperity emanates from contentment with the divine’s provisions combined with ethical stewardship (khalifah). It is a qualitative increase that starts from the inner state and manifests in the outer world.