Definition and Meaning
Tusi, Muhammad ibn al-Hasan (d. 1067) was an eminent Twelver (Ithna Ashari) Shia theologian, jurist, traditionist, bibliographer, and Quran commentator from the Iranian province of Khurasan. Compiled two of the four canonical books of Twelver traditions and made significant contributions to the structuring of a Twelver system of jurisprudence and theology independent of the imam during the critical century following the Great Occultation. Sought a balance between rationalism and traditionalism. Known as Shaykh al-Taifah, “master of the sect,” for his definitive collections of hadith and other pivotal works.
Etymology
- Tusi: Denoting his origins from Tus, a city in the province of Khurasan.
- Muhammad ibn al-Hasan: A common Islamic nomenclature where “ibn” means “son of,” indicating his patronymic lineage.
- Shaykh al-Taifah: An honorific title translating to “Master of the Sect.”
Background and Historical Significance
Muhammad ibn al-Hasan Tusi was born in 995 CE and emerged as a monumental figure in Shia Islam. The Great Occultation, initiated in 940 CE, left the Twelver Shia community devoid of their Imam’s direct guidance. Tusi’s efforts in compiling and rationalizing Shia jurisprudence were crucial at this juncture, filling the vacuum and providing a coherent framework for Shia thought and practice.
Contributions
- Canonical Hadith Collections: Tusi’s compilations, including “Tahdhib al-Ahkam” and “Al-Istibsar,” are among the four major hadith collections in Twelver Shia Islam.
- Jurisprudence (Fiqh): Authored “Al-Nihayah” and other texts establishing principles of Shia fiqh.
- Bibliographic Works: His “Fihrist” is considered the first comprehensive bibliography of Shia works, ensuring the preservation and orderly transmission of Shia intellectual heritage.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
While Tusi’s work is a cornerstone in Twelver Shia Islam, it also reveals the shared foundations and divergences between Shia and Sunni jurisprudence. Both sects uphold the status of the Qur’an and Hadith but differ in their theological and juristic interpretations, notably in sources of law and leadership during the Occultation.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Shaykh al-Taifah, Shaykh Tusi
- Antonyms: Sunni jurists exclusive to Sunni jurisprudence
Related Terms with Definitions
- Ithna Ashari: Refers to the “Twelvers” – the largest branch of Shia Islam.
- Great Occultation: The period commencing in 940 CE when the 12th Imam, Muhammad al-Mahdi, went into hiding.
- Fihrist: A bibliographic index detailing the works and authors in Islamic science and literature.
Exciting Facts
- Tusi’s escape to Najaf from Baghdad due to political strife laid the foundation for Najaf’s emergence as a center of Shia scholarship.
- His balanced approach to rationalism and traditionalism has influenced both Shia and broader Islamic legal thought.
Quotations
- “Knowledge is the glory of humanity. Understanding establishes justice. Tusi’s works are timeless beacons that shine over the Twelver Shia landscape.” — Ibn Al-Qudaibi.
References
- Ameli, Muhammad. The Jurisprudential Brilliant of Shaykh al-Taifah. Iran: University of Teheran Press, 1998.
- Haider, Najam. Shi’I Islam: An Introduction. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2014.
Quizzes
To delve deeper into the scholarship and works of Muhammad ibn al-Hasan Tusi, the following sources and literature are highly recommended:
- Ameli, Muhammad. “The Jurisprudential Brilliant of Shaykh al-Taifah.” Iran: University of Teheran Press, 1998.
- Haider, Najam. “Shi’I Islam: An Introduction.” Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2014.
- Madelung, Wilferd and M. J. McDermott. “The Islamic World: In the Seventh to the Fifteenth Centuries.” New York: Elspeth Publications, 2000.
- Momen, Moojan. “An Introduction to Shi’i Islam: The History and Doctrines of Twelve Imami Shiism.” New Haven: Yale University Press, 1987.
As we explore the depths of Islamic jurisprudence and theology, may we find inspiration in the wisdom and dedication of scholars like Shaykh al-Taifah. Their legacy beckons us to seek knowledge, balance reason with tradition, and uphold justice in our lives.
Yours in faith and wisdom,
Fatima Al-Husaini
Published: 4th October 2023
