Definition and Meaning
Jamiah-yi Ruhaniyat-i Mubariz (Persian: جامعه روحانيت مبارز), commonly translated as the Society of Militant Clergy, is a socio-political movement in Iran. It was established with the primary aim of continuing the revolutionary momentum following the 1963 uprising instigated by Ayatollah Khomeini. This pivotal organization was vehemently engaged in protests against the Pahlavi regime, as well as against the political influence of Israel and the United States in Iran.
Etymology and Terminology
- Jamiah (Persian: جامعه): Society or Community
- Ruhaniyat (Persian: روحانيت): Clergy or Spiritual Leaders
- Mubariz (Persian: مبارز): Militant or Resistant
The term encapsulates the collective identity of spiritual leaders (clergy) who are actively involved in a militant struggle.
Historical Background
The Society of Militant Clergy gained notable prominence amidst the 1963 uprising, known as the Islamic Revolution Movement, which was catalyzed by Ayatollah Khomeini’s vehement opposition to the ruling monarchy and its socio-political policies. Following Khomeini’s arrest and consequent exile, the society fortified its position as a central force opposing the Shah.
Key Historical Facts and Dates
- 1963 Uprising: Marked the significant crystallization of opposition against Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, leading to Khomeini’s exile.
- Post-1963: Jamiah-yi Ruhaniyat-i Mubariz continued clandestine operations, fostering protests and maintaining the revolutionary ideology.
- 1979: The society played an instrumental role in the success of the Islamic Revolution, contributing to the overthrow of the Shah.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
While deeply embedded in Iranian culture, the sentiments and goals of Jamiah-yi Ruhaniyat-i Mubariz find resonance across various Muslim countries, particularly around issues of political sovereignty, resistance against perceived imperialism, and the central role of religious leadership in socio-political movements.
Similar Movements
- Muslim Brotherhood (Egypt): Shared a blend of religious and political activism.
- Jamaat-e-Islami (South Asia): Exhibits similar political and societal objectives rooted in Islamic ideology.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Islamic Revolutionary Clerics
- Ayatollah Khomeini’s Followers
- Militant Ulama
Related Terms with Definitions
- Ayatollah: A high-ranking title given to Shi’a clerics recognized for their extensive knowledge and jurisprudence.
- Ulama: The body of Muslim scholars recognized as authorities in Islamic law and theology.
- Islamic Revolution: The 1979 revolution in Iran that culminated in the establishment of the Islamic Republic under Khomeini’s leadership.
Exciting Facts
- The Jamiah-yi Ruhaniyat-i Mubariz was notable for integrating theological principles with militant tactics, thereby creating a new archetype of revolutionary leadership in the Muslim world.
- Murtaza Mutahhari, a key member, was a leading intellectual force and was assassinated shortly after the revolution due to his influential ideas.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The resilience and adaptability of Jamiah-yi Ruhaniyat-i Mubariz in persisting through Khomeini’s exile underscored the deep-rooted conviction of its members to manifest an Islamic government.” – Dr. Hamid Ansari, Islamic Revolutionary Movement Scholar
References and Suggested Literature
- “The Ideology of the Islamic Revolution in Iran” by Hamid Algar
- “Khomeini: Life of the Ayatollah” by Baqer Moin
- “The Iranian Revolution: A Global Perspective” by John L. Esposito
Stay inspired by the quest for justice and divine governance, and let the spirit of righteous striving live in your scholarly journey.
📚🐾 Fatemeh Nabavi
