پژوهش های تاریخی (Jun 2024)
. Historical Analysis of Imam Sajjad's Strategies for Reviving Shiism after the Ashura Event Based on Diffusion Theory
Abstract
Abstract Shiism experienced a significant crisis following the tragedy of Ashura characterized by oppression, fear, isolation, and the practice of taqiyyah. This study focused on the strategies employed by Imam Sajjad (A.S.) to revive Shiism in the aftermath of this event. Specifically, it addressed this question: How can we analyze Imam Sajjad’s strategies for revitalizing Shiism after the Ashura event? It appeared that Imam Sajjad (A.S.) utilized components of diffusion theory—namely, the destination of diffusion (environments that were both receptive and intolerant, along with political and cultural barriers), paths of diffusion (including displacement, contagious, and hierarchical diffusion), and timing of diffusion. By leveraging various tools, such as the community's reverence for the Prophet’s family, he transformed the emotional landscape created after Ashura, mitigating the effects of the oppressive Umayyad regime and countering the influence of pro-Umayyad scholars. Through initiatives like cadre building and promoting pilgrimage, he effectively revived Shiism after the Ashura event. This research elucidated Imam Sajjad's actions through the lens of diffusion theory, demonstrating how Shiism was revitalized in the wake of Ashura. Employing a historical methodology, the study analyzed Imam Sajjad's activities aimed at reviving Shiism, including cadre development, exposing Umayyad injustices, mobilizing the populace post-Karbala, challenging beliefs in predestination, elucidating the fundamental principles of Imamate, addressing key issues, and countering deviation through prayer and supplication. Keywords: Strategies of Imam Sajjad (A.S.), Revival of Shiism, Ashura Event, Diffusion Theory, Umayyad Era. Introduction The era of Imam Sajjad (A.S.), which commenced on Ashura in 61 AH, unfolded under exceptional circumstances. The oppressive measures of the Umayyads coupled with the suppression of dissenting movements and emergence of deviant intellectual currents underscored the urgent need for the revitalization of Shiite life. In light of the political, social, and cultural conditions of his time, Imam Sajjad (A.S.) adopted various approaches to articulate the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt, employing methods, such as prayer and pilgrimage. This study sought to analyze how Imam Sajjad (A.S.) revived Shiism following the Ashura event and identify the factors that influenced this revival. Several books and articles have been published regarding Imam Sajjad's role in the resurgence of Shiism. Notably, Seyyed Ja'far Shahidi's Life of Ali ibn al-Hussein (2001) examined and critiqued some well-known historical accounts of Imam Sajjad (A.S.). While this work shared common themes with the present research, it offered a new perspective by integrating theoretical frameworks. Additionally, Mohsen Ranjbar's Studying the Role of Imam Sajjad (A.S.) in Shiite Leadership after the Karbala Incident (2002) explored the cultural and political landscape of Imam Sajjad's era, focusing on his stance against the caliphate. However, this article distinguished itself by analyzing the environmental factors and components of diffusion theory relevant to Imam Sajjad's context. Another significant work was Madrasah Kalami Medinah from the Beginning to the Imamate of Imam Baqir (2024) written by Seyyed Ali Hussainizadeh from Khizrabad, which reviewed the history of Imamiyyah thought up to the end of Imam Sajjad's era through historical reports. Unlike the other two works, it did not provide an analysis of Imam Sajjad (A.S.) based on diffusion theory. Finally, Seyyed Gholam Hossein Hosseini's article, Headlines of the Political Movement of Imam Sajjad (A.S.) in the Karbala Movement (2002), touched upon similar themes; yet, it did not specifically apply diffusion theory, revealing a gap in independent research on this topic. Materials & Methods Diffusion theory introduced by Swedish geographer Hagerstrand in 1935, explored how innovations, phenomena, ideas, and thoughts spread. Initially applied to agriculture and disease transmission, this theory has since found relevance in political science and international relations. It effectively explains the reasons behind the spread of various intellectual and physical innovations, detailing how they disseminate, the pathways they follow, and the factors that may halt or re-ignite their spread. Additionally, it accounts for the stability of certain trends and the decline of others. In the modern era, cultural elements and innovations cross borders at unprecedented speeds, akin to jet travel and satellite communication. Contagious and hierarchical diffusion represent two rapid forms of expansion diffusion, where ideas and concepts migrate from new sources without the need for physical relocation. When analyzing the impact of any political innovation through the lens of diffusion theory, key factors like origin and destination, timeframes, tools, and channels of dissemination are considered. Furthermore, diffusion barriers and competing waves serve as mitigating factors that must be addressed in the examination of the phenomenon and its diffusion. Research Findings Imam Zayn al-Abidin (A.S.) aimed to restore order in a society that had succumbed to misguidance and moral decay, striving to revive authentic Islam (Shi'a). Alongside the Sahifa al-Sajjadiyah, which encapsulates the principles and teachings of Islam, the Treatise on Rights outlines fundamental rights that govern human life and ensure its happiness. Indeed, religion and Sharia were revealed to uphold these rights. Through this guidance, the Imam demonstrated that only an Imam, intimately connected to the source of revelation, possesses the authority to enact progressive laws that resonate with the human spirit. Discussion of Results & Conclusion The continuation of Umayyad rule under Yazid and Abdul Malik ibn Marwan following the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (A.S.) coupled with the atmosphere of fear and repression that ensued after the Ashura event posed significant challenges for Imam Sajjad (A.S.) in his efforts to revive and expand Shiism. Despite these obstacles, Imam Sajjad (A.S.) emerged as a pivotal figure in this revival, leveraging the emotional climate following events, such as the incident of Hurra and the destruction of Kaaba by Yazid's forces, alongside the public’s growing interest in the Prophet's family. To navigate the unwelcoming environment, the Imam implemented several strategies: he focused on training and building a cadre of supporters, exposed the injustices of the Umayyad regime, and sought to awaken the populace in the aftermath of Karbala. He also challenged the legitimacy of predestination and clarified the fundamental principles of Imamate. Through prayers and invocations, he addressed key issues and countered deviations, significantly advancing his goals. Utilizing methods like prayer and pilgrimage (path of diffusion) and disseminating religious concepts through his students and trained followers (path of contagion), Imam Sajjad (A.S.) endeavored to revive Shiism even amid the oppressive rule of the most tyrannical Umayyad caliphs, including Yazid and Abdul Malik ibn Marwan. This period marked a crucial phase in the diffusion of Shiism.
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