A CONTEMPLATION ON THE ROLE OF REASON IN DIVINE RECOGNITION: A Discourse by Professor Mohammad Hossein Assar

This essay explores the role of reason in understanding God (theology) from the perspective of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) and elucidates the distinction between monotheism (Tawhid) and recognition of God (Ma'rifat Allah). The author, referencing the traditions of the Ahl al-Bayt(peace be upon them), posits that while humans are obligated to uphold monotheism, true recognition of God is a gift from the Almighty. Through reason, a person becomes aware of a Creator to whom they are innately drawn; this awareness is bestowed by God Himself. This recognition is of a profound and ineffable nature, meaning that humans are overwhelmed by the essence and nature of the known and can only describe God with the attributes He has revealed. Understanding these attributes, however, is purely a matter of transcendence.

Keywords:

Reason , Monotheism , Recognition of God , Innate Recognition , Removing from Extremes , Awakening of Reason.