Mystical Theology of Rāz Shīrāzī

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

• Roya Rezamanesh ¹
• Ali Ashraf Imami ²
• Mohammad Javad Shams ³
• Fayyaz Gharaei ⁴

¹ phd student of the Department of Religions and Comparative Mysticism, Ferdowsi University Of Mashhad

² Associate Professer.Ferdowsi University Of Mashhad.(corresponding author)

³ Associate Professer.Imam Khomeini International University.

⁴ Associate Professer.Ferdowsi University Of Mashhad.

10.22067/epk.2025.88522.1347

Abstract

In this essay, the theology of Mīrzā Abū al-Qāsim Rāz Shīrāzī, a Shiite mystic (1286 AH), has been examined in a descriptive-analytical manner. He has considered the basis of religion, especially Islam and Shi‘a, to be the authority of Imam Ali (P.B.U.H), and in his works, he has, in a special and unique way, dealt with the relationship between the Muhammadan truth and authority. In his view, in the presence of the Unicity, no root or branch of religion is accepted from the worshipers without establishing the foundation of authority. Rāz has also referred to mystical theology in the threefold structure of religion, and with the support of Shiite hadiths and relying on the concept of the "pillar" of religion, that is, the absolute divine authority, while highlighting the fourth element, namely truth as the essence of religion, he has considered achieving the state of beneficence (iḥsān), not only in Islam, but also in all previous religions, to be conditional on accepting the reality of Muhammad and Ali. From his perspective, it appears that the Infallible Imams (P.B.U.T.) represent the truth of religion in all centuries and eras.

Keywords

• Mīrzā Abū al-Qāsim Rāz Shīrāzī
• theology
• authority (wilāyat)
• perfect man

Main Subjects

• Islamic Philosophy and Kalam

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