Absence Quote by Maimonides
“The Mutakallemim... apply the term non-existence only to absolute non-existence, and not to absence of properties. A property and the absence of that property are considered by them as two opposites, they treat, e.g. , blindness and sight, death and life, in the same way as heat and cold. Therefore they say, without any qualification, non-existence does not require any agent, an agent is required when something is produced.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Guide for the Perplexed, Book I, Chapter 2
Non-existence applies only to absolute void, not to lack of properties; properties and their absences are opposites like heat and cold.
In simple terms: Non-existence means absolute void, not just missing traits.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that lacking a property isn’t the same as not existing.
Themes
philosophy
metaphysics
logic
Mood
contemplative
analytical
Type
philosophical
theoretical
inquisitive
When to use this quote
- theological debate
- ethical reasoning
- scientific modeling
- personal self‑assessment
Key Concepts
ontology
duality
property theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we differentiate between absence and non‑existence?
- Can a property be “produced” without an agent?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that non-existence can be relational, not only absolute.
![“WHEN reading my present treatise, bear in mind that by "faith" we do not understand merely that which is uttered with the lips, but also that which is apprehended by the soul, the conviction that the object [of belief] is exactly as it is apprehended. If, as regards real or supposed truths, you…” quote by Maimonides](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fbb/maimonides-2639_articles_when-reading-my-present-treatise-bear-in_78488.jpg)
