Man’s Real Identity in Anthropological Thought of Ayatullah Javadi Amoli

Aimed at answering “what identity does Man possess, what necessities are associated with his identity and which factors bring about deviation in thought on identity”, the current research has employed a descriptive-analytical method to investigate the nature of human identity through studying the anthropological thoughts of Ayatullah Javadi Amoli.  Research findings reveal that in anthropological thought of Ayatullah Javadi Amoli, contrary to its logical definition, the reality of Man in rational human is not limited to either genus or differentia but one or more differentia are also required which serve as the final standard in determining the real identity of Man. He determines distinguishing genus and differentia for Man’s reality and believed that Man has only one divine living meaning that foundation of Man’s reality resides in his divinity. By divinization it is meant God-seeking on the basis of theology and becoming immersed in divinity which in turn involves some necessities such as accepting religion, its beliefs and its values. Naturally, practical commitment to ethical values, understanding the real meaning of freedom, training theoretical and practical reason and understanding Man’s inherent poverty are amongst other necessities of living a divine life. There are some psychological studies (behavioral, emotional and attitudinal) which may deviate Man from understanding his real identity and flourishment of divine life.