Is it permissible to cite as proof for the existence of God the argument of perfection and mastership (itqan and ihkam) instead of the argument of creation (khalq) when debating atheists who deny the creation of the universe?

The "Proof of Perfection" (Dalīl al-Iḥkām) is the argumentation for the existence of God through the astonishing perfection in the creation of the universe, which indicates an Omnipotent, Wise Doer. It is a certain proof, formulated as follows: The universe is precisely regulated, and this perfection must necessarily have a Knowing, Wise Doer. The conclusion is that the universe has a Knowing, Wise Creator. Scholars such as Paul Davies and Allan Sandage emphasize this perfection and complexity, which cannot possibly be mere coincidence.

The difference between the Proof of Perfection and the Proof of Creation and Origination: The Proof of Perfection focuses on the state of the universe after its existence and its precision, while the Proof of Creation is based on the universe's origination from nothingness. Both proofs indicate the existence of the Creator. The Proof of Creation relies on a necessary premise (the contingent nature of newly originated things), whereas the premises of the Proof of Perfection are inferential.

It is permissible to focus on one of the proofs for God's existence over others if it is done out of consideration for the addressee's situation or as a strategy for dialogue, provided that the validity of the other sound proofs is acknowledged. Indeed, callers to Islam vary their methods according to the requirements of need and circumstance.