Journal of Imamiyyah Studies

Journal of Imamiyyah Studies

Methods of Confrontation Between the Imams (AS) and Tyrannical Rulers

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Seyyed Muhammad Mahdi Hossein-Poor 1
ali farsimadan 2
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Denominations, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Comparative Law and Jurisprudence, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
10.22034/jis.2025.378555.1869
Abstract
One of the important topics in Imamiyyah is the discussion of the confrontation between the Imams (AS) and tyrannical rulers. This research aims to examine, using a descriptive-analytical method, the scholarly and practical conduct of the religious leaders and their relationship in in facing tyrannical rule. It seeks to answer the fundamental question of how the interaction between the Imams (AS) and the rulers was.
In this research, the author has strived to analyze the methods of confrontation of the Imams (AS) with tyrannical rulers by examining their lifestyle in dealing with governments. The Imams (AS), depending on the social and political conditions of each period, chose five methods in confronting the rulers of their time: "1) silence, 2) peace, 3) interaction, 4) opposition, and 5) influence." The Infallible Imams (AS) paid special attention to factors such as time, place, and social conditions in confronting and opposing governments. In emergency situations, even though the ruler lacked legitimacy, they considered interaction with the tyrannical ruler permissible due to more important interests and within the framework of secondary rulings, in order to prevent potential harm and threats to the Islamic community. However, in normal circumstances, while observing taqiyya (dissimulation), they expressed their dissatisfaction in various ways. Furthermore, in specific cases and considering the existing conditions and interests, they permitted some companions to have limited cooperation with the caliphs. In contrast, the tyrannical rulers also confronted the Imams (AS) through methods such as confinement and restriction, and ultimately martyred them.
Keywords
tyrannical rulers
confrontation with oppressors
conduct of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS)
tyrannical government
Subjects
The Holy Qur'an
Nahj al-Balāgha
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Journal of Imamiyyah Studies
Volume 11, Issue 21 - Serial Number 21
September 2025
Pages 247-278