Natural Knowledge and Rational Knowledge in the Thought of Seyyid Ibn Tawus

Analyzing the relationship between faith and knowledge is amongst most important issues in religious anthropology. Seyyid Ibn Tawus, on one hand denies theological and rational methods and on the other, in many cases, emphasizes natural reason and uses the benefits of rational reasoning. The view he held deeply touched subsequent anti-rationalist currents. Therefore, summarizing his views on the relationship between rational reasoning and faith becomes important in the life of religious Man. Investigating the words of this scholar shows that he is more a critic of reasoning and rational knowledge. So he can be counted among pioneers of nativists and traditionalists in theology. His rejection of Motazele thinking method compared to absolute rational methods and his denials of sophisticated rational reasoning compared to expanded rational regulations are amongst justifications derived from both of his approaches. The current research, in addition to introducing both of the aforesaid approaches and summarizing the view of this scholar, has pointed to some of problems and deficiencies in his theory.