Clericalism and the Context of Religious Government in Iran after Islamic Revolution

The purpose of the present study is to explain the clergymen’s perception of “context” in “Islamic government”. The method of study was descriptive analysis and the results showed that although the clergymen initially had no clear perception of the context of “government” and had not analyzed its concept, just mentioned the necessity to establish the government and considered that as a part of their political ideal. It seems that the concept of government was evident for them so that it needed no analysis and they just deemed its establishment necessary for performing Shari‘at (religious rules). However, the concept of government gradually turned into a central concept for them and became familiar with its new dimensions so they attempted to adopt an approving and disapproving approach to the old and new state of government, thereby bringing this concept into their religious discussions. In general, Shi’ite clergymen do not have a consistent perception of the context of religious government, yet a movement has emerged among them that could realize the new changes in the context of government to initiate the notion of human rights and be in charge of some issues in life. It is evident that a modern government does not get established and a philosophical system of democracy does not take place unless human rights are acknowledged in society.