فصلنامه شیعه شناسی
پیاپی 14 (تابستان 1385)

After the demise of the Samanid, Central Asia and the Eastern Khorasān (Mavara' al-Nahr) was dominated by the Muslim Turkic Qarakhataiyan dynasty, which ruled the area for about two centuries (389 until 609 Hijri), that is, until seven years before the Mongol invasion. During the fifth and seventh century Hijri, many Ismaili Shia and 'Alawis migrated to the area, due to its favorable social and political conditions. This paper investigates the presence of the Shiite denominations in the area, between the fifth and sixth centuries.

The topic of the Quran as a miracle is discussed in both Islamic theology (Kalam) and Quranic studies. There is no doubt that the Quran is a miracle, but what is important and open to debate is what it means to say that the Quran is a miracle. Imam Khomeini's unique and innovative view on the topic is discussed in this paper.

Taziye is an old Iranian national and religious practice, and part of Iranian religious identity. As other cultural phenomena, it was created, survived and developed under certain historical and social circumstances. Its diversity of forms, multiplicity of elements, symbolism and susceptibility to varied interpretations have prompted various studies, employing different approaches. This paper is confined to a descriptive study of Taziye, its historical development, elements and functions, as well as its present situation and influonce.

Imam Khomeini in his various works maintains that the Quran is a complete book with an eternal message that has never been distorted by anyone. Emphasising the cohesion and comprehensiveness of the Quran's language, he argues that some parts of the Quran can only be properly understood by the Ahl al-Bayt (the Prophet Mohammad's Household). Imam Khomeini's account of the Quran points to his scholarship in the field.

In this paper, the situation of the Afghan Shia under the Taliban regime is discussed. The Shiite resistance against the Taliban is studied, using discourse analysis. Shiite radical discourse is described as an anti-hermeneutic discourse.

The Shia believe that some actions may change the fate of people, as it is determined by God. In the Shiite terminology this is called "Bidā' ". Some other religions, such as Judaism, deny such a possibility. In this paper, the Shiite belief in "Bidā'" is discussed, and the arguments put forward to support such a belief are explained. The influence and functions of the belief are also explored.

"Shifaat" is a way provided by God for those who still may be guided to the right path. Contrary to those believing that the idea of "shifaat" emboldens people to commit sin, it gives sinners hope and facilitates their return towards God and the avoidance of sins. However, the idea of "shifaat" should be interpreted properly to prevent manipulation and the abuse of the concept, which has tarnished the belief. According to the Shia, only those people can be appealed to for "shifaat" that are allowed by God to do so. Nevertheless, the conviction has been misinterpreted and misused.

Since the collapse of the Taliban regime, Afghanistan has been open to various ideas and activities that affect the country's culture, society, economy and politics as a whole. Confronted with rival activities, and within the context of the larger society, the Afghan Shia have to have a clear understanding of the existing opportunities and threats, and organise their own cultural activities accordingly. New developments brought about by the current political system, such as equal rights and freedoms, the spread of public, academic and religious education, and the expansion of the media and various other social institutions, have provided the Shia with opportunities to intensify their effective cultural activities. Otherwise, they will be confronted with serious new threats. Educating Shiite human resources and supporting institutions working towards the solidarity of the Shia community may help the community to confront the above challenges.