Shia Islamism

Definition

Shia Islamism is a political ideology that combines Shia Islamic beliefs with political activism, emphasizing the role of Shia clerics and institutions in governance. This ideology gained prominence in the late 20th century, particularly during the Iranian Revolution, where it became a driving force behind the establishment of an Islamic republic that prioritized religious law and leadership by clerics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shia Islamism emerged as a response to perceived injustices and Western imperialism, particularly in Iran during the 20th century.
2. The Iranian Revolution of 1979 was a pivotal event for Shia Islamism, leading to the establishment of an Islamic government under Ayatollah Khomeini.
3. Shia Islamism prioritizes the role of religious leaders, particularly Ayatollahs, in political decision-making and governance.
4. The concept of Velayat-e Faqih provides the framework for clerical rule in Iran, where the Supreme Leader has significant authority over state affairs.
5. Shia Islamism has influenced various movements across the Middle East, promoting solidarity among Shia communities and shaping regional politics.

Review Questions

• How did Shia Islamism shape the political landscape of Iran following the 1979 revolution?
  • Shia Islamism significantly transformed Iran's political landscape after the 1979 revolution by establishing a government rooted in Islamic principles. The revolution led to the overthrow of the Shah and resulted in the creation of an Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Khomeini. This new government emphasized the authority of Shia clerics and implemented Velayat-e Faqih as a governing principle, ensuring that religious leaders held substantial power over political affairs.
• Analyze how Velayat-e Faqih is implemented within the framework of Shia Islamism and its implications for governance in Iran.
  • Velayat-e Faqih is central to Shia Islamism as it outlines the governance structure based on religious authority. Under this principle, the Supreme Leader, an Ayatollah, holds significant power and acts as both a political and religious authority. This dual role has profound implications for governance in Iran, as it intertwines religious doctrine with state laws and policies, influencing everything from legal systems to social norms.
• Evaluate the impact of Shia Islamism on regional politics in the Middle East and its influence on Shia communities outside Iran.
  • Shia Islamism has had a significant impact on regional politics in the Middle East by promoting solidarity among Shia communities and influencing various political movements. Countries like Iraq, Lebanon, and Bahrain have seen increased activism from Shia groups inspired by Iranian ideology. This rise has contributed to sectarian tensions and conflicts in the region, as Sunni-majority states often view Shia Islamism as a threat to their authority, further complicating geopolitical relations across the Middle East.

Related terms

Ayatollah: A high-ranking title given to Shia clerics who are recognized for their scholarly authority and leadership within the community.

Velayat-e Faqih: The principle of governance by Islamic jurists, which is a foundational concept of Shia Islamism, particularly in Iran after the 1979 revolution.

Islamic Republic: A form of government established in Iran following the 1979 revolution, characterized by a combination of Islamic law and republican principles.