The Political-Social Status of Shi'ism in Fars Province from the Afsharid Era to the End of the Zand Dynasty (1722-1794 CE)

Abstract

With the establishment of the Safavid government, Shi'ism was chosen as the official religion of Iran. Their support led to the growth and flourishing of Shi'a Islam, and subsequently, the enhancement of the political and social status and influence of Shi'a scholars in Iranian cities. Following the fall of the Safavids at the hands of the Ghilzai Afghans, who were Sunni Muslims, the position of Shi'ism and Shi'a scholars was severely weakened. In many cities, including Shiraz, massacres, and looting of property and honor took place, and Shi'ites were relegated to the lowest social classes. After the defeat of the Afghans, Nader Shah Afshar, possibly with the aim of ruling the Islamic world, resolving religious disputes between Iran and the Ottoman Empire, and fostering unity between Sunnis and Shi'ites to preserve the acquired territories and diminish the influence and legacy of the Safavids, revoked the official status of Shi'ism. This led to a decline in the position and power of Shi'a clerics within the government, a reduction in religious activities, and the confiscation of endowments and financial resources of Shi'a scholars. Nonetheless, he showed favor to the holy shrines in Shiraz by bestowing gifts upon them. During the Zand dynasty, particularly under Karim Khan, the situation of Shi'a scholars improved to a considerable extent. Religious positions and places were given significant attention and respect, although Shi'a scholars lacked any political power. The Shaykh al-Islam of Shiraz was appointed and once again took charge of religious courts. Mosques and religious sites, including the Vakil Mosque, were constructed, and Shi'ite identity was maintained. This article aims to examine, using a descriptive-analytical method, how the governments dealt with Shi'ites and Shi'a clerics in Fars province during the period from the fall of the Safavids to the end of the Zand dynasty.