abian Philosophy

There is no such thing as absolute certainty in the finite realm. Certainty in any given case is relative to the knowledge and experience of the knower. In the scientific realm, it is the knowledge of the accumulated facts of the scientist. In the spiritual realm, it is the life experience of the seeker after truth. This leads to the obvious conclusion that we can always find someone who is closer to the truth than we are, and hence more certain. It is from the more informed ones that we can seek advice to increase our own certainty.

Sabian philosophy teaches that we can obtain confirmation of our level of certainty in any given matter by what is known as signature. Signature confirms, by favorable coincidence, that we are "in the right place at the right time." This is not superstition but rather a conclusion based on the philosophy that the whole of the cosmos is interconnected and that if we are grooved favorably in one area of experience, there is every expectation that other circumstances of our life are equally healthy.  The same idea is expressed in the popular axiom: "let go and let God."

This approach to creative living is based on Ibn Gabirol’s Fountain of Life Book IV, Chapter 19.  Here the Teacher explains that the Will of the Primary Existent (God in non-philosophical language) pervades the whole universe and that every living creature participates in Its influence.  As the individual aligns himself to this Will, to the best of his certainty, then the individual’s activity will be grooved for success as surely as is every act of the Creator.

A practical application of the concept of certainty would be to look for favorable coincidences (signature) that confirm some current path of ongoing in your life. For example, if you are looking for a new job, look for favorable coincidences in areas (not related to employment) that confirm you are on the right path in your job search.