All-knowing

All-knowing refers to the attribute of possessing complete, infinite, or unlimited knowledge. In theological and philosophical contexts, this concept is primarily associated with a deity or divine being who is omniscient. The idea of being all-knowing raises significant discussions in the fields of theology, philosophy of religion, and metaphysics.

Definition and Context

The term "all-knowing" is synonymous with "omniscient," which derives from the Latin omnis (all) and scientia (knowledge). An all-knowing being, in most theological and philosophical discussions, is one that knows everything that can be known. This includes all past, present, and future events, as well as the thoughts and actions of all beings.

Theological Implications

In theology, the concept of an all-knowing God is prevalent in many religions, including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. This attribute is often linked with other divine characteristics such as omnipotence (all-powerful) and omnipresence (present everywhere).

Christianity

In Christianity, God’s omniscience is affirmed in numerous scriptural texts. Theologians argue that God's knowledge is not just expansive but also infallible, meaning God cannot be wrong in His knowledge.

Islam

In Islam, Allah is described as being all-knowing in the Quran. The divine knowledge encompasses all that has happened and all that will happen.

Judaism

In Judaism, the omniscience of God is implied in various texts of the Torah, where God is described as knowing human thoughts and future events.

Philosophical Perspectives

Philosophers have debated the concept of omniscience along with the implications it has on free will and predestination. If a being is all-knowing and knows the future, it raises questions about the autonomy of human actions.

Compatibilism and Incompatibilism

These are two primary views in the philosophical debate about free will. Compatibilists argue that free will can exist alongside divine omniscience, while incompatibilists claim that if an all-knowing being knows the future, then free will is an illusion.

Challenges and Paradoxes

The idea of an all-knowing being is not without its challenges and paradoxes. One famous example is the "Omniscience Paradox," which questions whether an omniscient being could limit its own knowledge or change its mind.

Cultural Impact

The concept of omniscience has influenced various cultural aspects, including literature, art, and ethical discussions, reflecting humanity's deep interest and concern with the limits of knowledge and the nature of divinity.

See Also

• Omnipotence
• Omnipresence
• God
• Free will