Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Ph.D in Quran and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.
2
Professor of Political Geography, Faculty of Geography, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3
Associate Professor of Quran and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.
Abstract
Purpose: State-building based on the model of the Islamic Revolution is one of the most significant challenges confronting the Islamic Republic of Iran. The term "challenge" refers to the obstacles and problems that stand in the achievement of the ultimate goal of the Islamic Revolution: the establishment of a new Islamic civilization. State-building should be viewed as a crucial objective. Until its importance is clearly articulated, it will be challenging to plan for and pursue other goals of the Islamic Revolution. The present study aims to identify and analyze the structural challenges faced by the Iranian government, particularly rentierism and centralization. It also seeks to provide solutions grounded in the teachings of the Quran and the life of the Prophet to address these challenges.
Methodology: Using descriptive-analytical and meta-analytical-historical methods, along with qualitative and fundamental data analysis, this research demonstrates that rentierism and state centralization—two significant challenges—have severely impacted both the efficiency and justice in the governance system. The methods employed are as follows: Initially, a descriptive-analytical approach is used to define the government, along with its administrative and executive systems, while
also introducing various types of government structures. By highlighting the significance of the Holy Quran and the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in modeling an Islamic government, these two authentic Islamic sources are recognized as reference points from the perspective of Imam Khomeini and Ayatollah Khamenei. They serve as guiding principles for reforming and enhancing the governmental structure within the Islamic system and the Islamic Revolution of Iran. Furthermore, a meta-analysis is conducted to establish a connection between the interpretative studies of the Quran and the conduct of the Prophet with the structure of modern government today. Additionally, historical analysis, a valuable method for management studies, is employed to examine the structural aspects of government during the early Islamic period and the governance of the Prophet.
Findings: The findings of the present research are as follows: First, based on the perspectives of two prominent leaders of the Islamic Revolution, a connection can be established between the teachings of the Quran and the governance practices of the Prophet. This connection allows us to draw significant lessons applicable to contemporary governance. Second, contemporary interpreters of the Quran have offered valuable insights into the political and social verses of the text, from which the principles of an Islamic state can be derived. The Holy Quran opposes rentier states and emphasizes the utilization of all divine blessings, gifts, and resources. Furthermore, the Quran underscores the importance of a taxation system, viewing it as a means to enhance domestic production and liberate the country from dependence on oil revenues and rent-based income. Additionally, the Prophet, during his governance in Medina, strongly emphasized the role of the people and never allowed his government to become centralized. It is important to note that centralization is a characteristic of a rentier state, and addressing these two challenges is essential for the establishment of an Islamic state.
Conclusion: By examining the teachings of the Quran and the life of the Prophet, this research concludes that a semi-centralized governance model can be regarded as an effective approach for minimizing rent-seeking behaviors and centralization, while also achieving the objectives of state-building in the context of the Islamic Revolution. The innovation of this research lies in presenting an Islamic governance model grounded in religious sources and tailored to address the challenges present in the Iranian governance system. The findings of this research also demonstrate that the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) are not confined to a specific time or place, highlighting the enduring relevance of Islam for all.
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