TAZILI Meaning and
Definition
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Tazili is a term used to describe a theological and philosophical school of thought within the Islamic tradition. It originated during the medieval period and developed as a response to various theological controversies that emerged within the Muslim community.
The Tazili school is known for its adherence to the principles of rationalism and the application of reason in understanding religious doctrines. Tazili scholars placed a strong emphasis on the compatibility of religion and rationality, seeking to demonstrate that Islamic teachings were in harmony with intellectual inquiry.
One of the key tenets of Tazili theology is the concept of tawhid, which asserts the oneness and unity of God. Tazili theologians argued that God's attributes should be understood allegorically, as they believed that literal interpretations could undermine God's transcendence and lead to a form of anthropomorphism.
Furthermore, Tazili thinkers sought to reconcile predestination (qadr) and human responsibility (qiyam), delving into discussions on free will and determinism. Another significant aspect of Tazili thought was its advocacy for the use of logic and rational arguments in theological debates, rejecting blind adherence to religious dogma. This approach often brought them into conflict with other theological schools, such as the Ash'ari and Mu'tazili schools.
In summary, Tazili refers to a theological and philosophical school within Islam that emphasizes the utilization of reason and rationality in understanding religious teachings. It seeks to reconcile Islamic beliefs with philosophical and intellectual inquiry, holding that God's attributes should be understood allegorically and placing great importance on logical argumentation.
