Rereading the concept of The Butterfly Effect in light of the foundations of transcendent theosophy

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D. Student in Transcendent Theosophy, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad.

2 Associate Professor, Department of of Islamic Knowledge, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.

3 Graduated master degree in Islamic philosophy and theology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

10.22061/orj.2025.12572.917

Abstract

The butterfly effect, which originated from the famous parable “Does the flap of a butterfly’s wings in Brazil set off a tornado in Texas?” is originally a scientific concept in the field of meteorology, referring to the notion that very small changes can lead to large consequences. Although this idea was proposed within the scope of mathematical sciences, it has the potential to be reinterpreted at a philosophical level and find a broader meaning. This research, using a descriptive-analytical method and a philosophical approach, attempts to take the butterfly effect beyond the level of a scientific example and reinterpret it in light of the foundations of transcendent Theosophy. The findings of the research show that within the framework of Sadrian ontological foundations, the butterfly effect does not simply express "sensitivity to initial conditions", but can be considered as a sign of the continuity and unity of the universe; based on this meaning, every act and event, however small and minor, can play an important role in the overall system of existence. The consequences of this rereading appear on several levels: ontological and epistemological and ethical and narrative level, Finally, in the light of this reinterpretation, the butterfly effect expands from a limited scientific concept to a theological philosophical principle, and by implying a metaphysical and ontological meaning, it implies a novel and profound theme of the world's unity and the contagion of existential influences.

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Journal of Ontological Researches
Volume 14, Issue 28
March 2026
Pages 299-328

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