Mulla Sadra

Makers of the Muslim World

by Sayeh Meisami

A timely biography on the single most important and influential philosopher in the Muslim world in the last four hundred yearsMulla Sadra (572 - 1640) is perhaps the single most important and influential philosopher in the Muslim world in the last four hundred years. The author of over forty works, he sought to bring to life the whole heritage of Islamic thought, from philosophy to mysticism, and create a more flexible and conciliatory approach to the problems which seemed to dissociate reason from faith. In this wide-ranging profile, Sayeh Meisami reaches beyond historical narrative to assess the true impact of the man and his ideas. This thought provoking and comprehensive account is ideal for any philosopher wanting to uncover the life and thoughts of a man who represents the climax of intellectual tradition at a crucial point in the history of Islamic civilization.

Genres: Islam

158 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2013

Reviews

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly excellent introduction to and short overview of the most important parts of Mulla Sadra's theosophical schema. Also traces his influence through Shi'a scholarship in the years after his passing, including the periods in which his thought was suppressed (e.g. under late Safavid rule in particular). It's challenging reading for people who don't have a background in philosophy, but still the most clear and concise it can be. This is the book I'd recommend to people who want to begin to understand Mulla Sadra; I just wish there was a paperback version, because I think the price tag ($36 USD) will turn people off who aren't already interested in his thought.