Examining the Theory of Tasdeed of the Imam (PBUH) in the Sheikhieh Karim Khanieh School of Kerman

Abstract

The theory of Tasdeed of the Imam (PBUH) in the Sheikhieh school, which is one of the intellectual schools in our contemporary history—particularly in the Karim Khanieh branch—has been discussed extensively. The methodology of this research is descriptive-analytical. The Sheikhieh school was founded by Sheikh Ahmad Ahsaei, who presented unique interpretations of Shi'a teachings, especially in theological and philosophical issues. His views faced opposition from prominent contemporary jurists of the Imamiyyah school. The scholars of the Sheikhieh school, particularly Seyyed Kazem Rashti, the successor of Sheikh Ahmad Ahsaei, and subsequently Mohammad Karim Khan Kermani, Seyyed Kazem Rashti's student to whom the Karim Khanieh branch is attributed, endeavored to elaborate on Sheikh Ahmad Ahsaei's theories. The theory of Tasdeed of the Imam (PBUH), which is primarily discussed within jurisprudential and fundamental principles, is rooted in the theological and philosophical foundations of the Sheikhieh school. It is considered a distinctive theory, as Sheikhieh scholars, especially Haj Mohammad Karim Khan Kermani, have elaborated upon it. The scholars of Sheikhieh, through presenting this theory, sought to establish that the Imam of the Age (AJ), as the manifestation of divine names and attributes and the possessor of both legislative and existential authority (Wilayah Takwiniyah and Wilayah Tashri’iyah), exercises influence over the realms of existence and divinity. Through the Tasdeed and affirmation of the Imam (PBUH), traditions and hadiths are preserved, enabling jurists to attain certain and definitive religious knowledge (Ilm Shar'i), while absolute conjecture (Zann) is devoid of validity. Therefore, jurisprudential rulings are regarded as definitive, with true jurists always being subject to the Tasdeed and endorsement of the Imam (PBUH). However, given the theological disagreements between the Imamiyyah jurists and Sheikhieh scholars, the concept of the Tasdeed of Sheikhieh jurists by the Imam of the Age (AJ) is not accepted by the Imamiyyah jurists.