A Study and Critique of the Impressionability of Zaidi’s Rationalism from Muʻtazila

Abstract

The present article strives to analyze, study and critique the intellectual roots of the impressionability of the Zaidi rationalist thought from the Muʻtazila by using authentic scientific sources and to provide an answer for the question as to whether Zaidi rationalism is influenced by Muʻtazila intellectual thought and why many believe that the Zaidis are under the influence of their intellectual ideas and believe in their five principles; and also while disproving the presented arguments, to show that contrary to the present and dominant view, the Zaidis rationalist perspective is not influenced by the Muʻtazila’s theoretical thought. Even though the Zaidis, like the Muʻtazila, adhere to the intellect in theology, but like the twelve Shiʻa whose rationalism takes root from the practical behavior of the infallible Imams (a.s.) alongside argumentation through intellectual proofs, the Zaidis also rely on and present narrative proofs. This does not mean refuting the fact the Zaidis are one of the sects that give particular attention to the intellect and rationalism and it is in this vein that the circumstances of utilizing and benefitting from the intellect by the Zaidis is explained.