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A Phenomenological Analysis of Imam Ali’s (AS) Approach to Tribalism: With Emphasis on the Apostasy Crisis during the First Caliph
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Hossein Maydani Noushabadi   , Mehdi Ansari , Jamshid Jalali Sheikhani |
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Abstract: (1174 Views) |
This study focuses on the central question: What was Imam Ali’s (AS) approach toward the phenomenon of tribalism, particularly in the context of the Bedouin (badawī) crisis during the era of the first caliph? It examines the social and political transformations of the Islamic community following the demise of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). During this period, the apostasy of the Bedouin (badawī) tribes and their refusal to pay zakat created serious challenges for the structure of power and the concept of the caliphate, revealing the reproduction of tribal traditions in the behavior of political actors. Using a historical phenomenological approach and discourse analysis, this study demonstrates that Imam Ali (AS), by emphasizing religious discourse and the values of justice, piety, and Islamic unity, sought to make religious identity prevail over tribal identity and to replace tribal elements with spiritual and ethical alternatives. In contrast, the caliphal institution, by blending tribal and religious elements, contributed to the reproduction of tribal structures and granted privileges to tribal leaders. The overall findings of the study indicate that the apostasy crisis marked a turning point in the conflict between religious and tribal discourses. Imam Ali’s (AS) response provided a model for transitioning from traditional tribal structures toward the formation of a religious identity and power structure in early Islamic society. This research shows that the conflict between religious and tribal discourses played a significant role in the political and social developments of early Islam, and Imam Ali’s (AS) justice-oriented and unifying approach laid the groundwork for transformation in the power structure and social identity of Muslims.
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| Keywords: Imam Ali (AS), Apostasy Crisis, Tribalism, Religious Discourse, Islamic Unity. |
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Full-Text [PDF 628 kb]
(478 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2024/05/4 | Accepted: 2024/08/7
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