The Best Practices in Disputes in Imam Reza’s (A.S.) Viewpoint

Applying correct practices in disputes is more effective and influences the minds and hearts of people; but incorrect ones make the opposite site of the debate more determined and fanatical in his wrong beliefs. Accordingly, Quran advises people to follow best practices in disputes and Imam Reza (A.S.) has also utilized these practices and insisted on rational, emotional and argument aspects. In these kinds of disputes, insulting and blaming the religion and beliefs of the other side is not allowed. Imam Reza (A.S.) utilized mutually acceptable beliefs of religions including Monotheism and Prophethood. In these disputes, there is no place for prejudice, militancy, self-esteem and persuasion of fame-seeking while “wise short saying and avoiding complicated saying” has highly been recommended. Other features of best practices in disputes recommended for debaters is to be fair and to admit ones mistakes –if he has made one. These kind of disputes are allowed –and even compulsory- in religious affairs and not only stop hatred and enmity, but also encompass many positive effects. On the other hand, there are some disputes that are not allowed including the ones with ignorant, debating with someone whose objective is to achieve evil goals and conflicting in what threatens the unity of Muslims and humanity. This research seeks to answer the question “what is the meaning of the best practices in disputes from Imam Reza's point of view” using descriptive-analytic method.