Islamic Art Studies

Islamic Art Studies

The Manifestations of Tashbīh and Tanzīh in Iranian Islamic Art

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Ziadin Noamani 1
Asadollah Shafizadeh 2
Mohammadreza Pakdelfard 3
1 PhD Student in Architecture, Ahar Branch, Islamic Azad University,Ahar,Iran.
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Ahar Branch, Islamic Azad University,Ahar,Iran.
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz,Iran.
10.22034/ias.2021.252306.1390
Abstract
Tanzīh (transcendence) and tashbīh (immanence) are among the topics that theologians have consistently addressed. Lexically, tashbīh means likening, considering something similar, or believing in the resemblance between two things, while tanzīh means sanctifying, considering something pure, or believing in the absolute purity of something from deficiency, limitation, and the like. The debates and disagreements over tashbīh and tanzīh have led to numerous disputes, and the extent of their influence on Iranian Islamic art is one of the subjects that researchers must clarify. The research method in this study is qualitative, and an attempt is made to reach conclusions using a descriptive, analytical-comparative approach based on library research. On one side, the traditionists (Ahl al-Ḥadīth) and Ashʿarites, and on the other, the Muʿtazilites, have interpreted this doctrine in entirely different ways. The first group leaned toward tashbīh, while the second inclined toward tanzīh. Given that beliefs and doctrines have influenced the formation of Iranian Islamic art, this art has, in different historical periods, either approached or distanced itself from one of these two perspectives. In the early years of Islam in Iran, these arts were closer to tanzīh-oriented beliefs and gradually moved toward tashbīh-oriented beliefs. Ultimately, the best approach is a balance between tashbīh and tanzīh.
Research Objectives:
1.     Identifying different perspectives and views on tashbīh and tanzīh.
2.     Examining the manifestations of tashbīh and tanzīh in Iranian Islamic art.
Research Questions:
1.     What perspectives and theories exist regarding tashbīh and tanzīh?
2.     How has Iranian Islamic art been influenced by tashbīh and tanzīh?
Keywords
Tashbīh
Tanzīh
Wisdom of Art
Islamic Art
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