Abu al-Mansur al-Maturidi: Definition and Meaning
Comprehensive Definition
Abu al-Mansur al-Maturidi (d. 944 or 956) was a prominent Sunni theologian and one of the founding figures of the Maturidi school of thought. His works and methodologies introduced substantial approaches to resolving theological disparities and interpreting the Quran. Al-Maturidi emphasized that the justice imparted by God stems intrinsically from His essence, while still preserving divine freedom. He highlighted the unique position of human beings endowed with intellect, morality, and a consciousness of freedom.
Etymology and Background
The name “Maturidi” is derived from Maturid, the place near Samarkand where he was born. The honorific ‘Abu al-Mansur’ means ‘Father of Victory,’ highlighting his acclaimed standing in the theological community. Al-Maturidi’s full name is Abu Mansur Muhammad ibn Muhammad ibn Mahmud al-Maturidi al-Samarkandi.
Historical Facts and Dates
- Birth and Death: Abu al-Mansur al-Maturidi likely saw the light of day around the mid-9th century and passed away in 944 or 956.
- Main Contributions: Asserted the autonomy of human reason while interpreting Islamic texts, counterbalancing the dogmatic approach commonly attributed to the Ash’ari school. His major works include “Kitab al-Tawhid” (Book of Unity) and “Ta’wilat Ahl al-Sunna” (Interpretations of the People of the Sunnah).
- Legacy and Influence: His methodologies influenced notable modern scholars like Muhammad Abduh, who found al-Maturidi’s principles an invaluable asset in reimagining traditional Islamic doctrines.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Al-Maturidi’s methodologies had parallel as well as divergent evolutions in different Islamic societies:
- In Ottoman and Persian regions, his ideas often meshed well with existing Sufi traditions, enriching local theological debates.
- In South Asia, both Sunni and Shia communities respect and reflect upon his contributions.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
- Synonyms: Sunni theologian, Islamic philosopher, Imam al-Maturidi.
- Antonyms: Ash’arite, Mu’tazilite (whose methods sometimes stood contrary to Maturidism).
- Related Terms:
- Maturidism: A Sunni theological school opposed to determinism and endorsing free will.
- Tawhid (Oneness of God): A core concept in al-Maturidi’s teachings asserted in Islamic creeds.
Exciting Facts
- Legacy of Intellectual Freedom: Al-Maturidi’s skillful balance between reason and revelation has allowed for flourishing renewed interpretations within Islamic scholarship.
- Advanced Metaphors: His elucidation employs sophisticated metaphorical comparisons, placing complex theological nuances within reach of broader audiences.
Quotations
- From Abu al-Mansur al-Maturidi: “The revelations of the Quran maintain unity and coherence. The flaws exist not within the divine text but within our comprehension.”
Further Studies and Literature
- “Early Islamic Theology: The Maturidite Tradition” by Ulrich Rudolph
- “Islamic Theology and Philosophy: Studies in Honor of George F. Hourani” edited by Michael E. Marmura
- “The Oxford Handbook of Islamic Theology” by Sabine Schmidtke, offers extensive insights into Maturidi’s methods and their impact.
Translations
- Arabic: الماتريدي، أبو المنصور
- Persian: ابومنصور ماتریدی
- Urdu: ابو المنصور ما تریدی
- Turkish: Ebû Mansûr el-Mâtürîdî
### Which one of the following best defines Abu al-Mansur al-Maturidi?
- [x] A major Sunni theologian who devised new methodologies to tackle theological disputes.
- [ ] The founder of a mystic Sufi order.
- [ ] An influential Islamic jurist (Qadi).
- [ ] The main advisor to a caliph.
> **Explanation:** Abu al-Mansur al-Maturidi is predominantly known for his paramount contributions to Sunni theological discourse.
### Al-Maturidi emphasized the importance of which human characteristic in distinguishing between humans and animals?
- [x] Intellect.
- [ ] Physical Strength.
- [ ] Longevity.
- [ ] Solitary Living.
> **Explanation:** According to al-Maturidi, intellect, along with moral sense and an awareness of freedom, is what distinctly sets human beings apart from animals.
### The name “Maturidi” is derived from which of the following?
- [x] The place Maturid near Samarkand.
- [ ] A family name.
- [ ] A known toxin remover.
- [ ] A kind of Arabic gate.
> **Explanation:** “Maturidi” refers to the place Maturid, near Samarkand, where Abu al-Mansur al-Maturidi originated from.
### Which principle did Al-Maturidi integrate into his Quranic interpretation?
- [x] Comparison of unclear passages with clearer ones.
- [ ] Flouting the traditional exegesis exclusively.
- [ ] Standing against reason and intellect.
- [ ] Ignoring historical context.
> **Explanation:** Al-Maturidi advocated for understanding unclear Quranic text passages by comparing them with clearer passages to resolve apparent conflicts.
### What significant idea is associated with al-Maturidi's concept of divine justice?
- [x] It stems intrinsically from God's essence.
- [ ] It restrains God’s freedom.
- [ ] It opposes human free will.
- [ ] It dismisses human reason.
> **Explanation:** Al-Maturidi pointed out that divine justice is an intrinsic characteristic of God's essence without constraining His divine freedom.
### Which of these works is authored by Al-Maturidi?
- [x] Kitab al-Tawhid.
- [ ] Tafsir al-Qurtubi.
- [ ] Mishkat al-Masabih.
- [ ] Kitab al-Shifa.
> **Explanation:** "Kitab al-Tawhid" is one of the remarkable works authored by Al-Maturidi.
### How do modern thinkers like Muhammad Abduh relate to Al-Maturidi?
- [x] They utilized his methods to reinterpret traditions.
- [ ] They opposed his theological methods.
- [ ] They adapted opposite methodologies exclusively.
- [ ] They dismissed his works as outdated.
> **Explanation:** Modern thinkers like Muhammad Abduh found inspiration in Al-Maturidi’s methodologies to reinterpret and rejuvenate Islamic traditions.
### Al-Maturidi criticized which group's excessive dependency on rationalism?
- [x] The Mu’tazilite.
- [ ] The Zahirite.
- [ ] The Kharijite.
- [ ] The Abbasids.
> **Explanation:** Al-Maturidi criticized the Mu’tazilite school's excessive dependency on rationalism, favoring a harmonious balance between faith and reason.
Farewell thought: In pursuing the symbiosis of reason and revelation ‒ as symbolized by Abu al-Mansur al-Maturidi ‒ may we find a path that embraces both intellect and faith, crafting a world of profound understanding and harmony.
— Hassan Al-Jarrah
