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The Life and Thought of Iran's Revolutionary Ayatollah

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Montazeri: The Life and Thought of Iran's Revolutionary Ayatollah

by Robert Coram

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4209 KB
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Print length	:	313 pages

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini Montazeri: The Life And Thought Of Iran S Revolutionary Ayatollah

Early Life and Education

Ruhollah Khomeini was born in Khomein, Iran, on September 24, 1902. His father, Seyyed Mostafa Musavi, was a prominent Shia cleric, and his mother, Hajar Khanoum, was a devout Muslim. Khomeini's father died when he was only five years old, and his mother raised him in a strict religious environment.

Khomeini began his religious studies at a young age. He studied at various seminaries in Iran, including the prestigious Qom Seminary. He was a brilliant student and quickly became one of the leading Shia clerics in Iran.

Political Activism

Khomeini became politically active in the 1960s. He opposed the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who he believed was a corrupt and oppressive dictator. Khomeini also criticized the Shah's close ties with the United States.

In 1964, Khomeini was arrested and imprisoned by the Shah's government. He was released in 1978, after the Shah fled Iran in the face of mounting protests.

Iranian Revolution

Khomeini returned to Iran in 1979 and led the Iranian Revolution. He called for the establishment of an Islamic republic, based on the principles of Shia Islam. Khomeini's charisma and religious authority inspired millions of Iranians to join the revolution.

The Shah's forces were defeated in February 1979, and Khomeini declared the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran. He became the Supreme Leader of Iran, a position he held until his death in 1989.

Ideology

Khomeini's ideology was based on the principles of Shia Islam. He believed that the clergy should play a leading role in society and that the government should be based on Islamic law. Khomeini also believed that the Muslim world should be united under a single leader, the Supreme Leader.

Khomeini's ideology was controversial and it led to conflicts with both the West and the Sunni Muslim world. However, his legacy continues to shape Iran today. He is seen as a revolutionary hero by many Iranians and his ideas continue to inspire resistance to Western imperialism.

Death and Legacy

Khomeini died on June 3, 1989, at the age of 86. He was buried in a mausoleum in Tehran. His death was a major event in Iran and it led to a period of mourning and instability.

Khomeini's legacy is complex and controversial. He was a revolutionary leader who changed the course of Iranian history. However, he was also a dictator who suppressed dissent and violated human rights.

Khomeini's ideas continue to shape Iran today. He is seen as a hero by many Iranians, but his legacy is also a source of division and conflict.

Montazeri: The Life and Thought of Iran's Revolutionary Ayatollah

by Robert Coram

5 out of 5