The Necessity of Paying Attention to Sharīf Mortezā’s Theological Legacy

The theological thoughts and writings of Sayyid Murtadhā, the great Imamiya theologian and scholar, are important in several ways, and worth paying close attention. First of all, Sharīf Murtadhā’s theological school is considered to be the first «comprehensive » and «systematic» theological school in Imamiya, which has presented a detailed and consistent system of Imamiya beliefs. This school is also the most rationalistic theological school in Imamiya theology and its revival in the present era is very fruitful and necessary for modifying the irrationality which is dominating the popular movement of those who care too much about the unnecessary things. In addition to this, Sayyid Murtadhā’s theological writings are original works which contain some new theological thoughts, and by no means is a mere transcript of the thoughts and writings of the theologians before him. Also his works indicate an early and an important reading of the Shiite beliefs that are very useful for understanding true Shi›a. Nevertheless, no scholarly and corrected editions of Sharīf Murtadhā’s precious theological works have been published yet. Any research and analysis of Sharīf Murtadhā’s theological works depends on preparing some precise and correct editions of his theological works which of course requires special skill and paitience.