Mutazilites

2. Core Principles of Mutazilitism

Central to the Mutazilite philosophy are a set of five fundamental doctrines, often referred to as the “Five Principles of Kalam.” These principles underscore their theological framework and delineate their positions on critical issues.

• Tawhid (Oneness of God): The Mutazilites staunchly emphasized the absolute oneness and uniqueness of God. They argued that God’s attributes cannot be separate from His essence, thus avoiding anthropomorphism and any implication of multiple deities.
• Adalah (Justice of God): They posited that justice is one of God’s essential qualities, asserting that God’s actions are based on wisdom and fairness. This principle compels the Mutazilites to reject any notion of divine tyranny or capriciousness.
• Ma’bud (Divine Authority): The authority of a religious figure is contingent upon rationality and moral integrity. The Mutazilites believed that individuals should utilize their intellect to discern truth rather than blindly follow tradition.
• Human Free Will: The Mutazilites championed the idea of human agency, advocating that individuals possess free will. This belief in moral responsibility mandates that humans are accountable for their choices, thereby reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct.
• Prophethood: They asserted that prophets are chosen based on their moral superiority and intellectual capabilities, which qualify them to guide humanity. This perspective places an emphasis on the intuitive understanding of divine messages.

3. The Relationship with Ahlulbayt