Mu'tazila

The Mu'tazila was an Islamic theological school that emerged in the 8th century. They emphasized reason and intellect in understanding faith, advocating the use of logic in interpreting the Quran and Islamic teachings. Mu'tazilites believed in free will, asserting that humans are responsible for their actions, and they rejected anthropomorphism, denying physical attributes to God. They promoted ideas like the unity of God and the importance of justice. Their influence waned by the 10th century but they played a significant role in shaping Islamic thought, balancing rational philosophy with religious belief during a critical period in Islamic history.