As noted earlier, the Dahriyya have invoked this argument—the argument from wisdom and purpose in action. We explained that the same argument can be turned against them whatever position they adopt, making it clear that what their position entails is graver than what they sought to avoid.

We now say: it has become clear that they acknowledge the observable, known wisdom evident in the world, which they call providence. Philosophers are among those most knowledgeable about this and most prolific in discussing the benefits, purposes and instances of wisdom found in created things, their suitability for human beings and other creatures, and the wisdom found in the human body and elsewhere—whether they study natural science and its branches or the science of