Ulama: Shii
Definition
Ulama: Shii refers to the body of professional yet unofficial clergy within Shii Islam who hold significant religious and social authority. They are primarily involved in education, law, and spiritual guidance, and wield considerable influence in both religious and secular matters.
Etymology
- Arabic: علماء الشيعة (ʿUlamāʾ ash-Shīʿa)
- Turkish: Şii Ulema
Educational Centers
The most important center for the education of the Shii Ulama is in Qom, Iran. Historically, other significant centers have included Najaf in Iraq.
Role and Influence
Historically, Shii Ulama have exercised the right of ijtihad (independent reasoning) in the interpretation of Islamic law. This has empowered them to engage actively in social issues and exert influence beyond merely religious matters. They are believed to serve as agents of the Hidden Imam during his absence, granting them substantial religious authority.
Social and Political Impact
- Religious Authority: They are entrusted with the care of the poor, the infirm, widows, and orphans, and supervising religious and charitable expenditures.
- Social Mobilization: This caretaking role gives them a powerful base for social mobilization and collective protest.
- Financial Autonomy: Their control over charitable funds lends them financial independence, further strengthening their societal position.
Historical Context
During the European imperial era of the 19th century, the Shii Ulama in Iran emerged as a significant social force:
- They were major critics of the Qajar Shahs’ policies on foreign concessions, tax issues, loans, territorial losses, and autocratic behavior.
- Similar critiques were directed against Reza Shah Pahlavi.
Political Evolution
Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s Wilayat al-Faqih (Guardianship of the Jurist) doctrine revolutionized the role of the clergy by asserting that they are the appropriate rulers to ensure the implementation of Islamic law. The Iranian revolution solidified the central role of the Shii Ulama in the governance structure, and their power became unprecedented in history.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Islam and Revolution in the Middle East” by Henry Munson
- “Iran: A People Interrupted” by Hamid Dabashi
- “Shi’i Islam: Origins, Faith and Practices” by Najam Haider
- “The Mantle of the Prophet: Religion and Politics in Iran” by Roy Mottahedeh
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Shii Ulama are pivotal not only in religious teachings and spiritual guidance but also in political and social spheres. Their influence on Iran’s historical and contemporary politics underscores their unique position within Shii Islam. Understanding the Ulama’s historical role and doctrinal foundations offers crucial insights into the dynamics of Shii communities and their sociopolitical movements.
In conclusion, the Shii Ulama’s combined spiritual and socio-political roles make them a central element in shaping the trajectory of Shii Islam in both historical and modern contexts.
