Mahdavi Culture of Defense and its Function in New Islamic Discourse

The basis of the present study is the analysis of “Madavi Culture of Defense” and “its function in new Islamic discourse”. The method of research is descriptive-analytic and the findings of the research indicate that Mahdism teachings have a high capacity for global discourse. The cultural-defensive function of Mahdism at various levels- “insights”, “values”, and “symbols”- necessitates the ability to introduce Mahdism as the dominant discourse in contemporary era. Among the insightful functions of Mahdism in the cultural-defensive dimension are: strengthening and reinforcing the faith and religious beliefs, especially in the field of Imamate; the conceptual obligation with regard to Imam of the Time (A.S) influencing the culture and strengthening the spirit of defense, and responding to the doubts and safeguarding the society from deviations. The value functions of Mahdism include: ethical and educational values affecting the individual and social self-determination; economical values based on justice; reduction of economic inequality and establishment of value-centered economic system; political and social values affecting the establishment and reinforcement of social solidarity and foster of hope for future. Among the symbolic functions, we can point to the visual, auditory, and pictorial symbols which affect the new Islamic discourse and institutionalize the global culture of Mahdism.