Amili Ulama
Definition and Historical Significance
Amili Ulama refers to a distinguished group of Shii scholars hailing from Jabal Amil (modern-day South Lebanon). These scholars played pivotal roles in the Islamic intellectual and educational development, notably founding prominent madrasas and holding high religious offices in various regions.
Notable Figures
Among the most eminent Amili Ulama were:
- Al-Shahid al-Awwal (d. 1384): One of the earliest prominent Shii scholars.
- Al-Shahid al-Thani (d. 1558): Extended teachings and scholarly contributions significantly.
- Sahib al-Maalim (d. 1602): Recognized for noteworthy religious writings.
- Sahib al-Madarik (d. 1600): Renowned for his exegesis work on Islamic jurisprudence.
- Al-Muhaqqiq al-Karaki (d. 1533): Influential jurist and teacher.
- Al-Mujtahid (d. 1592) and Mir Damad (d. 1631/32): Grandsons of al-Muhaqqiq al-Karaki who furthered his intellectual legacy.
- Husayn ibn Abd al-Samad (d. 1576) and his son Bahai (d. 1621): Resort to various academic and educational contributions.
- Ahmad ibn Zayn al-Abidin (d. 1644) and Lutfullah al-Maysi (d. 1622/23): Reputed for theological and legal scholarship.
- Muhammad al-Hurr (d. 1699): Esteemed for his comprehensive works on Hadith.
Geographic Spread and Influence
The scholarly activities of the Amili Ulama weren’t confined to Jabal Amil. Many scholars migrated to other regions, profoundly influencing the Islamic educational and religious structures in Mecca, Iraq, Iran, and India. They rose to the highest religious offices within the Safavid Empire (1501–1736).
Divisions within Amili Ulama
The Amili Ulama were crucial to the division and discourse between two main Shii factions:
- Akhbaris (Traditionists): who emphasized the primacy of Hadith (the sayings and traditions of the Prophet Muhammad).
- Usulis (Rationalists): who advocated for ijtihad (independent reasoning) within the scholarly and judicial processes.
These debates played a foundational role in shaping clerical authority and epistemological discourses within Iran’s religious colleges.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology: The term “Amili” derives from Jabal Amil, tying the scholars to their geographic and cultural roots.
- Arabic Translation: علما ء العاملية
- Turkish Translation: Amil Uleması
Suggested Books for Further Studies
For an in-depth understanding of the Amili Ulama, consider these scholarly works:
- “Islamic Legal and Religious Authority in Shii Islam” by Devin Stewart
- “The Shi’ites of Lebanon under Ottoman Rule, 1516–1788” by Stefan Winter
- “Revolt and Violence in Islamic History” by Abdulkader Tayob
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Amili Ulama were instrumental in perpetuating the intellectual and cleric traditions within Shii Islam, influencing educational methodologies and religious jurisprudence across various Islamic empires. Their legacy continues to be a topic of reverence and scholarly interest in contemporary Islamic studies.
