Shi`a Pajoohi

Shi`a Pajoohi

The Cultural-Political Role of the Qajar State in the Emergence and Expansion of Shaykhism, Babism, and Baha'ism

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Akbar Bagheri 1
hamzeh ahmadi 2
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Shi‘a History Studies, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
2 M.A. Graduate in Shi‘a History Studies, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
Abstract
Throughout history, state support for or opposition to religious sects has exerted a significant influence on their proliferation or marginalization. During the Qajar period, three sects—Shaykhism, Babism, and Baha'ism—emerged and developed within the cultural and religious context of the time. Notwithstanding the numerous deficiencies inherent in these sects, their continued existence and expansion during that era gave rise to a question regarding the possible role of the Qajar state in the emergence and spread of these movements. Examining this relationship can contribute to a better understanding of the socio-religious transformations of that period. Moreover, such an analysis demonstrates how state patronage or suppression can affect nascent religious movements and redirect their trajectories. Although the fundamental role of the colonial powers—namely Britain and Russia—along with the substantial support of the Ottoman Empire in the rise and diffusion of Babism and Baha'ism in Iran is undeniable, the present study, employing a descriptive-analytical method, investigates the influence of Qajar cultural and political policies on the formation and expansion of Shaykhism, Babism, and Baha'ism, with particular attention to the vicissitudes experienced by these sects during the Qajar era. The findings indicate that policies of support, religious toleration, and the absence of decisive measures against these sects contributed to their survival and continuity.
Keywords
Cultural-Political Role
Qajar State
Religious Toleration
Religious Policy
Modernity and Religion
Shaykhism
Babism
Baha'ism
Subjects
A. Scriptures
 
The Holy Qur’an
Nahj al-Balaghah
 
B. Other sources
 
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