Ash'ari
acceptedأشعرية
Overview
A school of theology founded by Abu al-Hasan al-Ash'ari (d. 935 CE), himself a former Mu'tazili who returned to traditional positions. Uses rational theology to defend Sunni beliefs while affirming the seven essential attributes of Allah. The majority of scholars historically followed this creed.
Key Beliefs
- Seven essential divine attributes
- The Quran is Allah's eternal speech
- Rational theology (kalam) is permissible for defense of faith
- Ta'wil of certain attributes when necessary