Abstract

One of the most improtant and yet controversial speculations on gnosiology and recognition of being, Platoinc Ideas have drawn considerable attention of Muslim philosophers.This article first introduces the theory of Platonic Ideas plus its logical and philosophical novelties and then reflects Aristotle's objection to it. Finally, Platonic Ideas are considered on the basis of transcendent wisdom.Muslim philosophers have adopted different stances towards the theory of Platonic Ideas; Avicenna like Aristotle sternly rejects the theory and uses philosophical reasons to declare it invalid.On the opposite side stands Farabi who justifies the theory by relating Platonic Ideas to the forms of entities which are encompassed by the Divine Knowledge.Likewise, Mirdamad views Platonic Ideas as the eternal forms of beings which exist in the first principle. Suhrawardi adds nothing to Platonic Ideas and accepts them as rendered by Plato i.e., as self-existent beings.Approving Platonic Ideas, Sadr-ul- Mutaallehin still believes that Suhrawardi's explanatory reasons in this connection are debatable. He puts forth his own ideas i.e., principiality of being and analogical gradation, to prove the theory.Contemporary philosopher, Allameh Tabatabaii, remains skeptical about Mulla Sadra's affirmative proofs and considers Platonic Ideas as baseless.