Religion and War in Revolutionary Iran (Religion & War in Revolution)

Book Description

This scholarly exploration delves into the complex intersection of Islamic theology and political conflict during one of the modern Middle East's most significant wars. Saskia Gieling examines how Iran's religious leadership drew upon sacred texts, theological traditions, and historical precedents to frame their nation's prolonged conflict with Iraq in spiritual terms.

The study reveals how clerical authorities navigated the challenging task of reconciling warfare with Islamic principles, seeking divine justification for their strategic decisions throughout eight years of devastating conflict. Gieling traces the theological reasoning behind Iran's policies, showing how religious leaders interpreted Quranic teachings and Islamic history to support their vision of total war.

Beyond the immediate conflict, this work illuminates broader questions about the relationship between faith and statecraft in the Islamic world. The author explores how concepts of nationalism, pan-Islamic unity, and international relations were understood and applied through a distinctly religious lens during this transformative period.

For readers interested in understanding how spiritual traditions shape political action, this book offers valuable insights into the ways religious conviction can influence national policy and military strategy. The study demonstrates how theological interpretation becomes a powerful tool for legitimizing political decisions, particularly during times of crisis and conflict.

This examination provides a window into the complex dynamics between religious authority and state power in revolutionary Iran.