The College of Islamic Sciences at the University of Baghdad discussed a thesis entitled “Imami Theological Thought in the Orientalist Perspective,” presented by the student Karim Jihad Zaher from the Department of Islamic Theology and Thought in the Al-Bayt Hall (Peace Be Upon Them).
The significance of this thesis lies in its exploration of the Orientalist approaches to studying the Imami theological school. This is important because it encapsulates the Western perspective on Islamic sciences. Therefore, examining the opinions of Orientalists and considering their main objectives for our study is crucial. Orientalists view Islamic theology, including Imami thought, through a lens that differs from what we are accustomed to and believe in. It is our right, and even our duty, to become acquainted with what these individuals have to say about our beliefs, thoughts, and personalities. This knowledge enables us to subsequently identify some of the discrepancies in their viewpoints, focusing on one aspect without considering the other dimensions that researchers must explore.
The thesis produced several recommendations and results, including the important orientation in Oriental studies to research the field of cognitive theological systems, particularly Islamic ones. This has been evident since the early 19th century, with their studies falling under titles like “Theologos” or “Religious Controversy.” The concept of Imamiyya in the thoughts of Orientalists is closely related to the belief in the Imamate of Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him), which is an integral part of their religious beliefs inseparable from the highest religious truths. It is a specific concept applied to Shia in general, without categorizing any specific sect within Shia.
The thesis was approved with a satisfactory evaluation by the examination committee, consisting of Professor Dr. Abdul Hadi Fareeh as the chairman, Professor Dr. Mushtaq Bashir, Dr. Jasim Muhammad Harjan, Dr. Khalil Ibrahim, and Dr. Zaher Fayyad as members, with Professor Dr. Yassin Khudair Majbel as the supervisor.
The Dean, Dr. Nama Dahsh Farhan, attended the defense, along with his administrative assistant, Dr. Arkhan Rahim Jabir, closely monitoring the academic proceedings.
