Abstract:
Shafa4ah (intercession) and tawassul
(intermediation, instrumentation, solicitation) are
two Qur’anic concepts that pertain to the practical
implications of monotheism (taw$id). In both cases
there is an involvement of a being other than God
in the achievement of some request, the fulfilment
of some need, or the endowment of some bounty.
They pose a challenge to the Qur’anic and
monotheistic idea that God is the only source of
power, blessing and impact in the universe. As this
article will show, the main problem lies in
independence. Intercession and intermediation
would only be extensions of monotheism, not
contrary to it, given two conditions: (1) the
intermediaries should be selected and indicated by
God, not based on one’s opinion; and (2) one
should refer to these means not as independent
sources of impact, but only as reflections of God’s
power, mercy and will.
Machine summary:
"Intercession and intermediation would only be extensions of monotheism, not contrary to it, given two conditions: (1) the intermediaries should be selected and indicated by God, not based on one’s opinion; and (2) one should refer to these means not as independent sources of impact, but only as reflections of God’s power, mercy and will.
This is exactly why we need instruments, intermediaries, and intercessors in order to approach God, because our very existence entails duality, separation and difference from God. Those who deny the intercession and intermediation of some beings—such as the Imams—fail to realise that even prayer and supplications are means and instruments of seeking proximity to God. Even if we decide to not do or say anything but to simply turn our attention toward God and connect to Him through our heart, then this very act of turning one’s heart and attention to God is a means other-than-God that is being used to connect with Him. Therefore, there is no alternative to having some means and instruments between us and God, as He has commanded us: "O you who have faith!
This is while intermediation is an existential reality, and the authenticity of any intermediary in terms of having a genuine role in the universe is only and fully known to God. That is why He must show us the ways and means that bring us closer to Him; it is not up to us to decide, for it is not a conventional matter."