The Impact of Mysticism on the Islamic Revolution of Iran through the Legacy of Imam Khomeini

The objective of the article is to provide evidence on the impact of mysticism on the Islamic Republic of Iran through the figure, thought, and legacy of Imam Khomeini. To achieve this, the article discusses the relationship between the political thought of Imam Khomeini and his mystical and philosophical views on society and life.

The descriptive-analytical method is used to state the role and impact of mysticism on the Islamic Revolution by analyzing and comparing Imam Khomeini’s texts and speeches on the topic. Imam Khomeini was a devoted scholar who brought Islamic mysticism to the public realm of discussion, both within the religious seminary system and in the public arena of institutional discussions around the formation of the Islamic Republic.

Imam Khomeini revolutionized the clerical attitude towards politics and proved that religion was still relevant as an ideology capable of building a Modern society. His success in mobilizing his followers went beyond as he achieved this in a historical moment where the discourse of Westernization posed a threat to Iranians. Also, conveyed the revolutionary movement in a unique language featuring connotations of martyrdom, justice, freedom, and political and sociocultural independence. He emphasized the need to revitalize religion through the guidance of jurists and clerics while referencing the mystical traditions of Islam, which highlight its universality and transcendental importance.