Abstract

One issue that has frequently been elaborated in Mulla Sadra's philosophical works is the compatibility of intellect and Divine Law. His commentary on Osul-e-Kafi contains interpretation of upto thirty four reliable hadiths mainly about intellect and its efficiency. Referring to intellect as the most illustrious being, Mulla Sadra maintains that it is the very exalted spirit which God breathed into Adam.Mulla Sadra says that "intellect" is a polysemous word and takes meanings as a) instinct which separates man from animals b) basic sciences c) intellect as defined in books of ethics d)power of reasoning e) intellect as viewed in the discussion of soul including intellectus in actu, intellectus in habitu and intellectus adeptus f) intellect as viewed in theology.Emphasizing the high status of intellect, Mulla Sadra points to one hadith which names intellect alongside with prophets as the two proofs which help man find the right way. Moreover, based on a transmission from Imam Hussein, the third Imam of the prophet's household which says "intellect is always the pathfinder of believers" Mulla Sadra states that to approach God, one has to obtain intellectual perfection.