delegation

SUBJECT & OBJECTIVES: The paper provides a functionalist analysis of human free will and its impact on lifestyle from the perspective of Imam Ali . The discussion of free will and human influence over one’s actions is a significant issue in the fields of anthropology and theology, and it is interconnected with many topics in Islamic sciences and disciplines. Human beings possess various dimensions and characteristics, among which free will is a key feature. Imam Ali , in opposition to the prevalent deterministic interpretation, emphasized human free will and its impact on one’s actions. The belief in free will manifests in individuals’ lifestyles.METHOD & FINDING: In an analytical-descriptive method, this paper aims to examine the statements of Imam Ali  regarding human free will and its role in human lifestyle and progress. An active lifestyle or a passive lifestyle is considered a result of the belief in or denial of this free will. Progress and advancement in life, as well as divine happiness and reward, are achieved through free will, effort, and endeavor.CONCLUSION: Reward and punishment would be meaningless without free will. Effort and endeavor are fundamental aspects of lifestyle that arise from the belief in human free will. “An attempt to change undesirable conditions” and “Governance of belief” are among the manifestations of free will in individuals’ lifestyles. Man must strive to preserve freedom and not allow beliefs and values to be controlled by emotions.

The issue of determinism (jabr) and free will (ikhtiyar), and humanity's role in creating its actions, is one of the oldest theological questions. When confronting it, three distinct theological approaches have emerged: determinism (jabr), delegation (Tafwiz), and an affair between two affairs (amr bayn al-amrayn). Following their religious leaders, Imamiyyah theologians have adopted the third approach. To prove and explain it, they've used numerous rational and transmitted proofs, while also critically analyzing the other two viewpoints. Although various books and articles have been written on the critical examination of the concepts of determinism (jabr) and delegation (Tafwiz), what distinguishes this research is its critical analysis of these ideas through an analytical study of the Sahifah Sajjadiyyah's supplications. This approach, in itself, offers innovation in the field of theological discussions. Ultimately, this research concludes that free will (ikhtiyar) and choice are crucial human characteristics that exist within the scope of God's will and power. By utilizing these, humans are considered the direct agents of their actions. This study employs a descriptive-analytical method, with data collected and examined through library and documentary resources.