Khoi, Abol-Qasem
Khoi, Abol-Qasem (d. 1992) was a preeminent Iraqi Shii mujtahid, esteemed teacher of Islamic jurisprudence and theology, prolific writer, and influential spiritual leader. By the 1970s, he had become the most widely followed Shii mujtahid globally. Khoi used religious tithes (khums) to provide stipends for seminary students and establish Islamic educational institutions.
Career and Contributions
Khoi founded a publishing house in Karachi, Pakistan, and established multiple mosques and cultural centers, thereby creating pivotal Islamic educational and spiritual hubs. His opposition to the political activism of high-ranking religious authorities set him apart in the landscape of Shii Islam.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: أبو القاسم الخوئي
- Turkish: Abulkasım Hoyî
Doctrinal Stance
Khoi was a vocal critic of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s doctrine of vilayat-i faqih (ولایة الفقیه), which translates to “Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist.” He argued that the authority of Shii jurists should not extend to the political sphere and critiqued the concentration of power in the hands of one or a few jurists.
Later Life and Legacy
Despite being the only ayatollah of Iraq post-1980, Khoi was placed under virtual house arrest by the Iraqi regime until his death in 1992. His enduring legacy is reflected in his significant contributions to Islamic education and piety.
Suggested Books For Further Studies
- “Theological Foundations of Abol-Qasem Khoi’s Thought” by Abbas Kadhim
- “Shii Islam: Transformations in Theological and Religious Structures” by Moojan Momen
- “Islamic Jurisprudence: Shii Muhtajid Tradition” by Farhad Daftary
Takeaways
- Khoi exemplified the integration of religious scholarship with active spiritual and educational leadership.
- His criticisms of vilayat-i faqih underscore crucial debates within Shii Islam regarding the scope of religious authority.
- His organizational initiatives and literary contributions have had a lasting impact on Shii communities worldwide.
Conclusion
Abol-Qasem Khoi remains a pivotal figure in Shii Islam. His life’s work highlights the balance between religious authority and political activism and underscores the importance of continual theological and juristic scholarship. His influence endures in the infrastructures of learning he established and the discourses he shaped.
