Shaikh Mufid and Ratinolization of the belief of Ghaybah (occultation) in the Shiita Branch (Sect) of Imamiyya

Abstract

After beginning of "Greater Occultation" period, many objections raised against the last Imam's birth, life and his appearence as a Mandi. Imami scholars have spent great effort to refute these objections. Thus they wrote many books in order to explain and prove the notion of ghaybah (occultation). Scholars such as Nu`mani and Saduq claim that the reports are sufficient for answering these objections and compile their works in this context. Nonetheless, Shaikh Mufid, a pupil of Saduq, prefer to use reason in order to explain the issues related to believes. Consequently he opens new epoch by introducing the reason to Imami theology and initiates the tradition of Usuli. His approach is most evident in the explanation of ghaybah belief.