Language Communicative Functions in Imam Khomeini's Political Leadership and Its Human and Spiritual Dimensions

The relation of language and politics is very important in the field of political thought and political science. The issues related to this subject are divided into two parts: the first deals with the ontological and epistemological approach to the role of language in understanding politics as an existential exercise and the realization of political animal and citizenship; and, the second focuses on different functions of language in politics. On the other hand, considering the role of religion in social and political life, the capabilities and functions of the language of religion are also taken into consideration. By analyzing the communicative, emotional, and human functions of language, this article by employing a hermeneutic and phenomenological method, will reveal the effect of language on reducing violence, confrontation, and antagonism. The results of this study show that during the lingual hegemony in the discourse of modernity that was subject-based, Imam Khomeini devised a new language on the basis of religion, mysticism, and ethics that treated human beings equal and as a single being. The functions of language in the theoretical and practical politics of the Imam became meaningful in this ontological system. The relationship of the people and the rulers in the language of the Imam is not one-sided from top to bottom, but it is based on an ontological justice and equality that manifests itself within modern political institutions such as the constitution.