Tawhid al-Mufazzal (book)

Introduction to Tawhid al-Mufazzal

In the corpus of Shia Islamic literature, the treatise known as “Tawhid al-Mufazzal,” attributed to the illustrious figure of Imam Jafar al-Sadiq, occupies a pivotal position. This profound text elucidates the nature of monotheism (Tawhid) through a detailed exposition of the divine attributes and the evidence of God’s existence. The title itself, which roughly translates to “The Oneness of God: A Discourse of Mufazzal,” evokes an inquiry into the essential beliefs surrounding the unity of God from a Shia perspective, thereby serving as an indispensable resource for both scholars and laypersons alike.

Overview of the Historical Context

The milieu in which Tawhid al-Mufazzal was composed is significant. It was during a period of profound societal and theological upheaval that various factions sought to define and delineate the doctrines of Islam. Imam Jafar al-Sadiq, a central figure in this phase, was instrumental in establishing Shia theological underpinnings. Tawhid al-Mufazzal, therefore, emerges not merely as a theological text but as a socio-cultural artifact reflecting the concerns and aspirations of Shia Muslims at the time.