Criticism of Sophist Teachings from Viewpoint of Imam Sadeq (AS)

A major issue with regard to origins of sophist thoughts and behavior in the past and present is review of the attitude of divine texts, including the Book (Quran) and Sunna, to such affairs. It is clear that such divine texts will answer many questions and indicate the extent to which sophist thought conforms to Islamic teachings. Fortunately, the book " Kafi", which is the first and the most authentic book of tradition among Shias, carries a relatively lengthy conversation between a group of sophists and Imam Sadeq (AS). In that tradition, Imam refers to verses of the Holy Quran and traditions of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) as well as behaviors of past prophets including David and Joseph and behaviors of great disciples of the Prophet including Salman and Abuzar to respond to their extreme views about austere practices in avoiding worldly pleasures. While emphasizing their ignorance with regard to understanding Quranic verses and traditions, he reminded them that such an extremist way of thinking will provide people with excuses to evade their personal, family, and social responsibilities. The present paper will first review twelve points referred to in the said tradition before exploring viewpoints of Infallible Imams (AS) about sophism.