Kitabul Ghayba al-Shaykh al-Tusi

It was against this backdrop of political insecurity and theological dissent that al-Shaykh al-Tusi crafted his argumentation. Born in 995 CE, al-Tusi emerged as a pivotal figure in Shia scholarship, contributing not only to jurisprudential matters but also delving into the rich complexities of Imamate and its significance in the wake of the major occultation (Ghaybah) of the Mahdi. His work is a synthesis of earlier traditions and his original interpretations, highlighting the intricate relationship between the divine and human agency.

Central Themes

“Kitab al-Ghayba” elucidates several themes central to Shia doctrine, primarily focusing on the nature of the Twelfth Imam’s occultation, the signs leading to his reappearance, and the expectations of believers during this period. Al-Tusi meticulously delineates the distinct three phases of occultation: the lesser occultation (Ghaybat al-Sughra), the major occultation (Ghaybat al-Kubra), and the eventual return of the Mahdi.