ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a synoptic vision of Nasir-i Khusraw's contribution as an Ismaili da 'i, Persian poet, Muslim philosopher and founder of a faith tradition in the Central Asia. It examines his notion of pleasure as one of the central principles of his philosophical worldview. Nasir-i Khusraw occupies a prominent position in the history of the Ismaili da 'wa. In order to understand and appreciate his contribution holistically, his life can be located in three major historical contexts – the Ismaili da 'wa, Persian literary history and Islamic philosophy. Nasir vigorously and consistently attempts to affirm the role of intellect in the process of rediscovering the meaning and purpose of life and existence. Nasir's theory of Intellectual pleasure is the most crucial dimension of his entire philosophy of pleasure, because it is the intellectual pleasure which is absolutely necessary for the soul's success in this world and its subsequ.
