Moral Guides in Imami Kalam: A Re-reading of the Foundations of Ethical Exemplarism in the Theological Thought of Shaykh Tusi

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Islamic Studies, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.

2 Department of Islamic Studies, Faculty of Humanities, Bu Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.

3 Department of Islamic Studies Qom university of Technology, Qom, Iran (Corresponding author).

Abstract

Introduction: This research analyzes the foundations of ethical guidance methodology (rahnamā‑shenāsi) in the theology of Shaykh Tusi. It explores the intrinsic link between ethics and theology in Shi‘a thought, focusing on the role of divine leaders in guiding humanity toward felicity. Using a descriptive‑analytical and rational‑textual method, the study examines Tusi’s views on prophecy, imamate, and the characteristics of divine guides as ethical models. The core thesis posits that Tusi establishes a coherent ethical guidance system based on the necessity of the Infallibles, emphasizing Ismah, A‘lamiyyah (greatest knowledge), and Afḍaliyyah (superiority) as pillars of moral exemplarity.
Findings: 1- Virtue Ethics and Exemplarism: The framework aligns with Virtue Ethics, prioritizing character cultivation (stating “Be like this”) over mere adherence to rules. Like Aristotle’s emphasis on virtuous individuals for discerning the mean, the Shi‘a tradition introduces the Prophet (PBUH) and Imams (AS) as supreme ethical exemplars.
2- Theological Basis: Prophecy and Imamate: Tusi mandates the appointment of prophets and Imams based on the Divine Principle of Lutf (grace).

A) Prophecy: A Prophet (Nabi) receives direct divine knowledge. Their mission is inherently ethical: reason identifies general moral principles, while Sharī‘ah provides specific rulings. Prophetic teachings harmonize with human fiṭrah (natural disposition).
B) Imamate: Tusi considers Imamate rationally necessary, grounding it in Lutf.
The Imam is the perfect embodiment of divine commands, ensuring social good and preservation of the Shari’ah until Judgment Day. This role requires the Imam’s Ismah (infallibility) to guarantee correct interpretation and implementation of divine law.

3- Attributes of Divine Guides: Key Imamate attributes include knowledge of governance and immunity from error. The most crucial traits, following Ismah, are:

A‘lamiyyah: Comprehensive knowledge of law and public interest.
Afḍaliyyah: Moral and spiritual superiority over the community.
Courage: Essential for leadership and jihad.

4- Moral Education and Motivation: Tusi’s ethics is virtue‑based, defining felicity as Qurb Ilāhī (proximity to God). Motivation centers on attaining divine satisfaction. Prophets and Imams, by embodying ethical perfection, provide the strongest incentive. Their example challenges worldly motives, asserting that true dignity belongs exclusively to God (Qur’an 2:165), making Īthār (altruism) the ultimate ethical act.
Guidance (Hidāyah) is defined as Divine Lutf directing humanity toward obedience and reward, establishing the structure of ethical obligations.
Discussion: Shaykh Tusi integrates theology (Kalām) and ethics, presenting prophets and Imams as moral exemplars whose guidance reinforces a virtue‑based ethical system dependent on humanity’s transcendent needs.

Keywords

References

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Interdisciplinary Studies in Ethics
Volume 1, Issue 2 - Serial Number 2
October 2025
Pages 153-174

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History

  • Receive Date: 14 December 2025
  • Revise Date: 19 January 2026
  • Accept Date: 24 January 2026
  • First Publish Date: 24 January 2026
  • Publish Date: 23 September 2025

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