Description
Book SynopsisThis innovative study examines patterns of change in Shi'i symbols and rituals over the past two centuries to reveal how modernization has influenced the societal, political, and religious culture of Iran. Shi'is, who support the Prophet Mohammad's progeny as his successors in opposition to the Sunni caliphate tradition, make up 10 to 15 percent of the world's Muslim population, roughly half of whom live in Iran. Throughout the early history of the Islamic Middle East, the Sunnis have been associated with the state and the ruling elite, while Shi'is have most often represented the political opposition and have had broad appeal among the masses. Moharram symbols and rituals commemorate the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE, in which the Prophet Mohammad's grandson Hoseyn and most of his family and supporters were massacred by the troops of the Umayyad caliph Yazid. Moharram symbols and rituals are among the most pervasive and popular aspects of Iranian culture and society. This book traces
Trade Review"Overall, for fusing together cultural, social, and political history of the Moharram rituals and symbols, Aghaie's book is highly recommended to all those interested in modern Shi'i and Iranian history."
* American Historical Review *
"For those concerned with the political currency of religious ritual and symbolism among the Shi'ites of Iran, take heed of Kamran Scot Aghaie's Martyrs of Karbala..An essential study for our leaders and general readers alike."
* Virginia Quarterly Review *
Table of ContentsPreface
Acknowledgments
1. A Brief Historical Background of Shi'ism and Moharram
2. The Qajar Elites and Religious Patronage (1796-1925)
3. Qajar Society and Religious Culture: Tehran as a Case Study
4. The Pahlavi Regime and the Emergence of Secular Modernism (1925-1979)
5. Religious Rituals, Society, and Politics during the Pahlavi Period
6. Hoseyn, "The Prince of Martyrs"
7. Fatemeh, Zeynab, and Emerging Discourses on Gender
8. The Islamic Republic
9. Conclusion
Notes
Bibliography
Index
