The Place of Rationality in Razavi's Life and Teachings

Intellect is the special perceptive power of humans, which can be used to gain valuable knowledge and practical achievements in various fields of thought and action. Religious leaders, including Imam Riḍā (as) have spoken about the value and functions of reason in various human fields. This article tries to organize and analyze the position of reason and rationality from the perspective of Razavi's teachings by collecting the words of that imam from reliable sources. According to the findings of this research, from the point of view of Imam Riḍā (as) the intellect is a very noble creature through which man can achieve brilliant goals in worldly and Hereafter matters. On the other hand, the knowing Allah, which is one of the greatest divine blessings, depends on the use of reason. Belief in Allah, which is the condition of eternal salvation from the perspective of Islam, depends on the knowing Allah rationally. As in the next levels, religious orientation is necessary and proper worship depends on wisdom. On the other hand, the moral life of us humans in the three realms of individual ethics, devotional ethics and social ethics is dependent on rationality and the proper application of rational perceptions.