Early Islamic politics and government in Nahj al-balāghah

Abstract

In this thesis, political concepts of Nahj al-balāghah, a Shīte source of eleventh century (fourth century after Hijrah), is examined. The book contains books materials of political philosophy and evaluation of some political events which occurred in caliphate of Rāshidūn (632-661 A.D.) especially 'Alī . However, historical authenticity of book is not concern of this thesis and main concentration is made on early caliphal government and politics in book with reference to Islamic political initiatives of Islam in prophetic society. The first step in our approach is to create awareness about difficulties which appear in any attempt that deals with Islam and history. The different approaches of Muslims and non-Muslims to Islam and their different perceptions of religious politics are included in first part. In addition, several political initiatives of Islam such as political economy, political activism, integration of society and so on are examined in framework of Qurān and Sunnah of Prophet. This explanation enables us to observe politics and government of first successors of Prophet in their ideological context. The second part is devoted to explain major changes in Islamic politics and government after Prophet. With this background, in third part, political contents of Nahj al-balāghah, or the peak of eloquence, are analyzed without consideration as to whether 'Alī is its real author. There are some principles of political theory and philosophy, as well as a political account of several events in book which are main subjects of analysis of present thesis. In its politico-theoretical dimension, value of world, theological description of human freedom and responsibility, and theoretical approach to society and history are explained. In its political capacity, issues such as need for a government and extent of toleration in it, role of people, justice, leadership and its responsibilities are included in third part.