Imamiya Theology and Mu: tazila Discourse (Some consideration regarding the issue of the impact of Mu: tazila theology on Imamiya theology)

The relation between Shia theology and Mu›tazila theology, and in particular the influence of Mu›tazila theology system on Imamiya theology has been one of the most controversial issues in the history of Shia theology. Various, sometimes contradictory, ideas have been expressed with regard to this issue. In this paper, first, the various views expressed on this issue by various scholars over the past decade have been summarized and reported. And then, the author explains his chosen view in this regard. According to the author, Imamiya›s official theologians, particularly since Sheikh Mufid›s (d: 413 AH) time, have gradually become influenced by the «Mu›tazila theological discourse» at the stage of explaining and writing about beliefs and discussing theological issues. It means that while in the matter of doctrines and principles of belief they were quite independent, they have used Mu›tazila›s mind, language, expression, and theological system in their own choice of words, and have presented theological issues in Mu›tazila›s special way of thinking and writing. This effect was due to the common theology knowledge of the time of the theologians which force the Imamiya theologians to have the same language, speech and style of Mu›tazila›s, and also due to the informed choice of Mu›tazila›s theological method as the best method of discussing theology at that time.