The present study conducts a comparative analysis of the concepts of pleasure and pain in Islamic theology, from the perspective of Mu'tazilite scholar Qāḍī 'Abd al-Jabbār, and in ancient Greek philosophy, according to Epicurus. The core issue is examining the nature of pleasure and pain and their impact on human life and ethics. The method involves analyzing relevant philosophical and theological texts through critical reading and comparative analysis within both intellectual frameworks.



Results show both thinkers consider pleasure and pain fundamental, perceptual human concepts, emphasizing the role of desire, aversion, benefit, and knowledge in shaping experience. Both argue, through different reasoning, that pleasure and pain are not attributable to God but are specific to transient beings. Divergently, 'Abd al-Jabbār views them as indefinable, subjective psychological states, while Epicurus interprets them as natural phenomena from atomic interactions of body and soul. 'Abd al-Jabbār emphasizes the superiority of lasting spiritual pleasures, contrasting with Epicurus's materialist view, though Epicurus also prioritizes stable mental pleasures. 'Abd al-Jabbār's ethical system is rooted in rational good/evil and an act's relation to pleasure/pain, whereas Epicurean ethics is based on moderate, natural hedonism. The study highlights the importance of these concepts for ethical philosophy and education, positing rational understanding as a guide for ethical choices.