Introduction to "Shi'ism" (Book)

"Shi'ism," edited by Etan Kohlberg and published by Routledge in 2003, is a comprehensive collection of scholarly articles that explore the diverse aspects of Shi'i Islam. The book brings together seventeen articles, reflecting the wide range of scholarly interest in early Shi'ism over the past half century.

This report will delve into the key arguments and themes presented in the book, providing an overview of its content and significance based on the author's perspective.

Overview of Shi'ism

Shi'ism is a significant branch of Islam, with approximately one in ten Muslims identifying as Shi'i. Despite its minority status in the global Muslim population, Shi'ism has had a profound influence on contemporary Islam, particularly in countries like Iran where it is the dominant faith.

Historical Development of Shi'ism

The book examines the historical development of Shi'ism, tracing its evolution from a revolutionary movement to a more coherent and quietist sect. This transformation is attributed to the rearrangement of legal hadith during the lifetime of Imam Ja'far al-Sadiq, marking the beginning of legal hadith proper in Shi'ism.

The Safavid dynasty played a crucial role in establishing Shi'ism as the state religion in Iran, which further solidified its theological and political foundations.

Theological Foundations

A central theme in the book is the theological framework of Shi'ism, particularly the concept of walāya (or wilāya), which denotes both the Imam's sacred authority and the believer's loyalty.

The Imams are considered to possess supra-mundane knowledge and powers, with their authority being on par with that of the Prophet Muhammad. This is reflected in the unique characteristics of Shi'i hadith, where traditions are often traced back to the Prophet via an Imam or transmitted between Imams.

Hadith Scholarship

Shi'i hadith scholarship is distinct from its Sunni counterpart due to its hierarchical frameworks and the emphasis on the Imams as authoritative transmitters. In Shi'ism, hadiths need to be confirmed by transmission through an Imam to be considered valid.

This approach has been crucial in shaping sectarian identity and differentiating Imāmī Shi'ism from other Islamic currents.

Political and Social Dimensions

The book also explores the political and social dimensions of Shi'ism, including its evolution into a more politicized form under figures like Ayatollah Khomeini. Ayatollah Khomeini's interpretation of velayat-e faqih (the guardianship of the jurist) posited that the ulama were the legitimate heirs of the Imams, empowered to act in their absence. This view represented a significant shift in the role of the ulama from a subordinate to a dominant position in temporal authority.

Conclusion

"Shi'ism" edited by Etan Kohlberg provides a comprehensive overview of the historical, theological, and political aspects of Shi'i Islam. The book highlights the unique characteristics of Shi'i hadith scholarship, the theological foundations of Shi'ism, and its political evolution. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities and nuances of Shi'ism, both as a religious tradition and as a political force in contemporary Islam.