SOAS Research Online

Abstract

The thesis discusses the role of the mujtahids of Tehran in the Constitutional Revolution, considering their contribution both in ideas and organisation. The thesis is divided into eight chapters, the first of which deals with the relationship between the Lulama and the state, and the problem of accommodation with a ruler who was illegitimate according to Twelver Shi'ite law. The second chapter discusses the economic and social position of the 'ulama, concentrating on their financial resources, their legal duties, and their relationships with other groups, and attempting to show the ways in which they were subject to pressure. In the third chapter, the role of the Lulama, and particularly the mujtahids, in the coming of the Revolution is examined, especially their response to the centralisation of government, and the financial crisis at the turn of the century. The ideological contribution of the leading pro-constitutional mujtahid is discussed in the fourth chapter and an attempt made to identify the influences upon his ideas. Chapters five and seven deal with the role of the pro-constitutional mujtahids as the Revolution developed, considering their relationship with their following, the part they played in political organisation, and in the legitimising of the new Majlis, as well as their reactions to financial and legal reform. Chapters six and eight concentrate upon the arguments of the leading anti-constitutional mujtahid, and examine his relationship with the supporters of absolutism. The main themes of the conclusion are the contribution of both pro- and anti-constitutional mujtahids, ideologically and in organisation; their relations with their following; their attitude in general to reform; and the effect upon the Lulami of the long term trends, of which the Revolution may be said to form a part. The conclusion also draws in the work of other scholars on the subject, especially Hairi, Algar, Lambton and Arjomand.