Social Functions of Mahdaviat in Islamic Revolution of Iran

The investigation of Mahdism literature indicates that Mahdism has been mainly studied through historical and theological perspectives, but rarely from the perspective of social studies. Mahdism, at all public levels as well as religions and schools, is a doctrine promising fundamental changes in the current world. It has, therefore, played an important role in the emergence of global protests and revolutions. The research findings explain the functions of Mahdism at micro, meso, and macro levels with reference to prominent figures of Iran Islamic Revolution. In general, Mahdism teaches its believers to consider illegitimate any kind of government during the occultation and wait only for a government formed directly or indirectly by the Imam of Age. It also teaches its believers to fight against oppression and tyranny through convergence, unity and sympathy. Acceptance and internalization of the Mahdism belief have led to the institutionalization of a form of social monitoring and controlling called obligation. The common religious values internalize the belief of Faqih Government leading to social coherence in society. Having originated from the culture of values, the Islamic Revolution institutionalizes justice as the main building block of the society. The Islamic Government- which has been formed in the occultation of the Imam of Age and based on the principle of Velayat-e-Faqih (the rule of the Islamic jurisprudent) – constitutes the political-social system. After all, expectation of the Savior of Mankind in the light of Islamic teachings is another important function of Mahdism. Finally, the institution of the religious clergy and authority guide Islamic Community in theory and practice.