Mu'tazilah

Overview

A rationalist theological school that flourished from the 8th to 10th centuries. Emphasized reason over revelation in theological matters. Notorious for the Mihna (inquisition) where they persecuted scholars who refused to accept the createdness of the Quran. Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal famously resisted.

Key Beliefs

• Five principles (unity, justice, promise and threat, intermediate position, commanding good)
• The Quran is created (not eternal)
• Reason takes precedence in understanding attributes
• Free will without divine decree