بازپردازی مفهوم زیارت در نظام و تمدن اسلامی بر اساس جهان‌بینی توحیدی برآمده از مفهوم عهد

Purpose: Pilgrimage (Ziyarat) has been defined and interpreted in various ways throughout Islamic thought. The purpose of this study is to redefine the concept of pilgrimage within the framework of the Islamic monotheistic worldview, emphasizing its foundation in the concept of Covenant (Ahd). This study seeks to move beyond conventional definitions of pilgrimage as a mere devotional practice, positioning it instead as a transformative phenomenon that strengthens the individual’s spiritual journey while shaping the broader structure of the Islamic society and civilization. According to Quranic verses and Islamic traditions, the ultimate purpose of human creation and the ultimate goal of an Islamic society is to attain divine proximity (liqa’ Allah). Within this framework, seeking and engaging with divine signs (Ayat Allah), especially special divine signs (Ayat Khasa), is of paramount importance. Pilgrimage represents a direct engagement with these divine signs, facilitating both spiritual growth and social cohesion within the Islamic system. Unlike other devotional acts, pilgrimage is fundamentally a two-way interaction: one, the pilgrim presents their faith and spiritual state before the divine figures, reaffirming their religious identity. Two, through renewing their covenant and allegiance to the divinely chosen individuals (Awliya Allah), the pilgrim redefines their role and position within the cosmic order and the Islamic societal framework.With this redefined understanding, pilgrimage emerges as an irreplaceable practice in the Islamic system—one that no other devotional or socio-religious practice can fully substitute in its individual and communal impact.

Methodology: This study employs a conceptual analysis and logical reasoning approach, utilizing library-based and documentary research methods. The research framework is structured around Islamic theological sources, historical analysis, and philosophical inquiry, seeking to demonstrate how pilgrimage, in its redefined covenantal perspective, functions as a core mechanism for both spiritual transformation and Islamic civilizational development. The research is guided by the following analytical dimensions: one, examining pilgrimage in relation to divine proximity and the role of sacred figures in Islamic thought. Two, covenantal Aspects: Establishing the relationship between Ziyarat and the pilgrim’s reaffirmation of their spiritual and social commitments. Three, demonstrating how pilgrimage contributes to the formation of Islamic identity, reinforcement of social bonds, and strengthening of the Islamic system.

Findings: The study finds that pilgrimage plays a unique and irreplaceable role in both individual and communal dimensions of Islamic life: one, spiritual and Devotional Role: Pilgrimage is not merely a religious visit but a process of moral purification and self-realization. It serves as a means for the pilgrim to assess their faith, renew their spiritual allegiance, and draw closer to divine guidance. Two, social and Communal Function: The interactive nature of pilgrimage fosters unity, brotherhood, and collective religious consciousness among Muslims. Events such as the Arbaeen Pilgrimage exemplify how mass pilgrimages create a shared spiritual experience that strengthens the ties between believers, reducing sectarian divisions and reinforcing Islamic solidarity. Three, pilgrimage as a Covenantal Act: Unlike other devotional practices, pilgrimage explicitly involves a contractual and covenantal dimension—a renewal of faith and a reaffirmation of the pilgrim’s position in the divine order and the Islamic system. Four, civilizational Contribution: Pilgrimage functions as an essential component in Islamic civilization-building, shaping cultural identity, strengthening socio-religious institutions, and influencing governance and community structures. By integrating these perspectives, the study underscores that pilgrimage is not an isolated act of devotion but a foundational pillar in the development of the Islamic system.

Conclusion: The redefinition of pilgrimage within a covenantal framework highlights its indispensable role in personal transformation, societal cohesion, and Islamic civilizational continuity. By engaging with divine signs and reaffirming allegiance to the divinely guided figures, the pilgrim actively participates in the divine plan for the Islamic society. This study concludes that pilgrimage cannot be replaced by any other form of devotional or socio-religious act in the Islamic system. Its role in facilitating spiritual elevation, social unity, and civilizational development makes it a cornerstone of the Islamic worldview. Therefore, policy-makers and religious scholars must recognize and integrate Ziyarat into broader socio-cultural and political strategies to harness its full potential in shaping the contemporary Islamic world.