An Analysis on the Bases of the Epistemological Study of the Ashura Movement

In this paper, by stating the principles or rules of historical researches which were epistemological and methodological in nature, research has been made on the sources of the Ashura movement and its events. This issue is interdisciplinary and its original position is the epistemology of traditional sciences. However, the epistemological bases and achievements of the Ashura movement also have many functions in the field of Islamic theology and history. In this paper, the following will be attended to: statement of the epistemological principles in the domain of traditionl reason and the epistemic level of traditional reasons; the types and conditions for their authenticity; and the origin of their authenticity, especially with respect to single reports. By analyzing the epistemological principles governing traditional reasoning as well as the sources of and evidence concerning the Ashura movement and its events, one can conclude that sources and evidence concerning the events of Ashura are not confined to historical records. In fact, in addition to these records, one can obtain reliable sources in different fields as well. In addition, many sources exist which prove the events of Ashura which could be relied upon and referred to as authentic epistemic sources of the Ashura movement in verifying religious beliefs in the science of theology. The historic relationship between the Ashura movement and the past is not interrupted but rather has a strong connection. Therefore, one should not be doubtful over many of the events of Ashura. This issue has a significant epistemological, historical, and theological role.