Methodology and Intellectual Background of the Theories of Shia Theologians of the School of Baghdad on the Issue of Imamate

Methodology and intellectual background of a theory is one of the most important issues which has a crucial role in analyzing and distinguishing the reason for the advancement of that theory. The Shia theologians of the school of Baghdad who lived during the fourth and fifth century AH are considered to be the greatest twelver theologians throughout history. Nevertheless, the narrations of the infallible Imams which are considered the principal sources of religious thought can rarely be seen in their theological books. The aim of this paper is to first, understand the intellectual methodology of these theologians, and second, analyze why they strongly relied on reason in their argumentations and theological theories with respect to imamate, in light of the cultural background of Baghdad during those days. Based on the most important findings of this study, the strict attitude of the Baghdad theologians toward hadiths as well as the various schools of theology, and also religious fanaticism and fierce sectarian conflicts are among the most important factors which prevented the Shia theologians of that era to make full use of the narrations.