Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: مرجع التقليد (Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd)
- Turkish: Taklit mercii
Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd is derived from two Arabic words: “مرجع” (Marjaʿ), meaning “reference” or “source,” and “التقليد” (al-Taqlīd), meaning “to follow” or “imitation”. Therefore, “Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd” can be translated as the “source of emulation” or the “authority to be followed.”
Definition and Role
Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd refers to the highest-ranking authorities within the Twelver Shīʿī Muslim community, responsible for interpreting and executing Shariah law. These authorities hold significant influence over legal, theological, and moral decisions, guiding the community in various aspects of life according to Islamic principles.
Criteria and Selection
The designation of Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd is typically bestowed on a handful of jurists (Ayatollahs) based on their scholarly prowess, piety, and the loyalty and allegiance they command within the community. The position is not formally decreed but is earned through a combination of respected scholarship and community support.
Historical and Contemporary Figures
Historically, among the most revered Marjaʿ al-Taqlīds post-1970 were Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini and Ayatollah Abu al-Qasim al-Khoi. Their influence extended beyond local communities to include most Shīʿīs in Iraq, the Gulf states, Lebanon, Syria, and parts of India, Pakistan, East Africa, and Iran.
Significance in the Shīʿī Community
The role of Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd is pivotal in maintaining religious consistency and legal integrity in Twelver Shīʿī Islam. Followers (mukallids) adhere to the interpretations and rulings of their chosen Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd, forming a spiritual and theological bond that transcends national boundaries.
Further Reading
- “The Most Learned of the Shi‘a: The Institution of the Marjaʿ al-Taqlid” by Linda S. Walbridge - Offers a detailed examination of the role and influence of Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd.
- “Authority and Political Culture in Shi’ism” by Said Amir Arjomand - Explores the political and cultural implications of Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd.
- “Shi‘i Islam: An Introduction” by Najam Haider - Provides a contextual understanding of Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd within Twelver Shīʿī Islam.
Takeaways
- Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd serves as the paramount religious authority in Twelver Shīʿī Islam,
- The title is not formally decreed but is acquired through scholarly recognition and community allegiance.
- Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd has profound religious and socio-political influence, guiding millions of followers worldwide.
Conclusion
Marjaʿ al-Taqlīd represents the apex of religious authority in the Twelver Shīʿī community, ensuring the propagation and application of Islamic legal and moral teachings. The intricate balance of scholarship, piety, and community loyalty defines these esteemed figures, who serve as the lodestars for Shīʿī adherence and interpretation of Shariah law.
