Wakalat al-Ammah, al-
Wakalat al-Ammah, al- is a foundational concept in Twelver Shiism that justifies the ulama’s (Islamic scholars) assumption of leadership roles and the prerogatives of the Hidden Imam as his collective deputies. According to Twelver Shia doctrine, since all spiritual and political authority rests with the Imam, the legitimacy of any political or judicial position must derive from him. The concept of Wakalat al-Ammah provided Shii ulama procedural legitimacy and an economic base independent of secular appointments or state support. This structure enabled them to build a separate, substantial base of power that could challenge secular authorities.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: وكالة العامة (Wakalat al-Ammah)
- Turkish: Genel Vekalet
Theological Basis
In Twelver Shiism, Imamate is the belief in the spiritual and temporal leadership of the Muslim community by the Imams, who are considered to be divinely ordained. The Hidden Imam, or the Mahdi, is the last of these Imams who is believed to be in a state of occultation and will eventually reappear.
Historical Development
The concept of Wakalat al-Ammah arose during the occultation period of the 12th Imam (starting in the late 9th century). During this time, the Shii community needed a mechanism to manage religious, social, and political affairs. The ulama assumed the role of the Imam’s deputies, implementing religious rulings and collecting religious taxes such as khums (خمس), a tax to be used for welfare and religious purposes.
Modern Implications
The idea of clerical deputies formed the basis for Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s concept of Vilayat-i Faqih (Guardianship of the Jurist), which has been enshrined in the Iranian constitution. Under this system, the jurists not only interpret the law but also govern the state, embodying the responsibilities and authority of the Hidden Imam.
Recommended Books
- “The Shia Revival: How Conflicts within Islam Will Shape the Future” by Vali Nasr.
- “Islam and Revolution: Writings and Declarations of Imam Khomeini” by Imam Khomeini.
- “Iran: A People Interrupted” by Hamid Dabashi.
- “Vision and Valor: An Encyclopedic Study of Khomeini’s Thought” edited by Hamid Beg.
Takeaways
- Wakalat al-Ammah enables the ulama to act as the collective deputies of the Hidden Imam.
- It provided Shii ulama with legitimacy and an independent source of income, enabling them to challenge secular powers.
- It forms the foundation for the Vilayat-i Faqih system in Iran.
Conclusion
Wakalat al-Ammah is a significant concept within Twelver Shiism that has historically empowered the ulama, aligning the religious leadership with the occulted authority of the Hidden Imam. This multiplex dynamic of spiritual and political authority continues to shape modern Shii thought and governance, notably influencing the political structure of contemporary Iran.
