Khomeini, Ruhollah al-Musavi
Khomeini, Ruhollah al-Musavi (d. 1989) was an influential Iranian Shii cleric, the leader of the Islamic revolution, and the ideologue of the Islamic Republic of Iran. He is notably recognized for opposing the Shah’s secularization policies and the emulation of Western ideology.
Early Life and Education
Khomeini was deeply immersed in Shii theological studies and rhetoric from an early age, positioning himself against what he viewed as the eroding influences of the West on Iran’s cultural and religious landscape.
Opposition to the Shah
Khomeini adamantly opposed the policies of the Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, which he perceived as detrimental to Islamic values. He harnessed support from pivotal social groups such as merchants (bazaaris) and students. Khomeini’s rhetoric skillfully diverted attention from traditional Islamic rituals, spotlighting the social, political, and cultural dimensions of Islam.
The Paradigm of Injustice
Khomeini drew poignant comparisons between the Shah’s regime and the Umayyad caliph Yazid’s, relating the plight of the Iranian people to Husayn ibn Ali’s suffering and martyrdom. This established a potent paradigm of injustice and resistance, which galvanized his followers.
Exile and Activism
In 1964, following a series of anti-Shah sermons—where he denounced the Shah, Israel, and the United States—Khomeini faced arrest and exile. During his 15 years in exile (1964-1979), he cultivated relationships with anti-Shah student organizations abroad and consistently transmitted his revolutionary messages through written statements and audiotapes.
Islamic Republic and Vilayat-i Faqih
Returning to Iran in 1979 amidst widespread acclaim, Khomeini aimed to consolidate revolutionary forces and forge a new political order grounded in Shii Islamic principles. He established the doctrine of Vilayat-i Faqih (Rule of the Jurist), which became the cornerstone of the new Islamic government structure. His tenure marked strict adherence to traditional social norms and repressive actions against perceived threats to Islam, including the Bahai community.
Iran-Iraq War and Foreign Policy
Khomeini initiated and persisted through the protracted Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), despite significant internal opposition. In foreign policy, he advocated for the global spread of Islamic revolution through a blend of preaching, confrontation, and armed struggle. He urged Muslims worldwide to resist oppressive, un-Islamic, pro-American governance.
Death and Legacy
Khomeini’s death in 1989 saw widespread public mourning. His era significantly redefined Iran’s socio-political landscape, leaving an enduring legacy within both Iran and the greater Shii Muslim world.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: روح الله الموسوی الخمینی (Ruhollah al-Musawi al-Khomeini)
- Turkish: Rûhullah Mûsevî Humeynî
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Khomeini: Life of the Ayatollah” by Baqer Moin
- “The Shia Revival: How Conflicts within Islam Will Shape the Future” by Vali Nasr
- “The Spirit of Allah: Khomeini and the Islamic Revolution” by Amir Taheri
Takeaways and Conclusion
Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini remains a pivotal figure in contemporary Islamic history. His ideologies and actions facilitated the establishment and consolidation of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His theological doctrine and stringent policies highlight the complex interplay between religion and state in contemporary governance.
Khomeini’s revolutionary rhetoric and leadership influenced global political Islam, underscoring the profound impact of charismatic leadership combined with religious ideology in affecting societal transformation.
