An Introduction to the Religious Beliefs and Politics of Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar

The religious beliefs of Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar can be discussed regarding his religious policy. A kind of religious belief seems to be apparent and recognizable in his behavior and actions so that he, as the king of a Shiite country, tried to show that he is the guardian of the Shiite religion. Generally, the rule of Agha Mohammad Khan is mostly referred to as a military and violent rule. Historical resources have further described his immeasurable military campaigns and bloodshed. In the meantime, the study of his religious spirits and beliefs has been completely neglected. The purpose of this research was to investigate the religious beliefs of Agha Mohammad Khan and his approach in dealing with Shiite scholars. This research is conducted through a descriptive-analytical method using library resources. The results showed that as the founder of the Qajar dynasty, he was completely religious and loyal to the principles of Shiism by his heart regardless of hypocrisy. On the other hand, while respecting Shiite scholars, he did not allow them to involve in political affairs very much and used them occasionally.