The System of Wilayat-Based Communication in Islamic Lifestyle with Emphasis on the Conduct of Imam Reza (as)

Mohammadi, Abdollah

doi:10.22034/farzv.2023.415119.1911

The System of Wilayat-Based Communication in Islamic Lifestyle with Emphasis on the Conduct of Imam Reza (as)

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Abdollah Mohammadi

Assistant Professor Institute for Research in Philosophy and Wisdom, Tehran, Iran: mohammadi@irip.ac.ir

https://doi.org/10.22034/farzv.2023.415119.1911

Abstract

One of the key aspects of Islamic lifestyle is the mode of interaction among members of society. The concept of “Wilāya” (Guardianship) possesses the potential to offer a novel design for social communication systems. The primary focus of this article is to introduce the essence and hierarchical levels of Wilāya as a foundation for redefining communication systems across various societal strata.
Organized through a descriptive-analytical methodology, the findings of this research demonstrate—based on Quranic verses and narrations, particularly the teachings of Imam al-Riḍā (as)—that the realization of believers’ Wilāya serves as a constitutive condition for attaining the Wilāya of the Infallibles (as). This dimension of Wilāya, which has hitherto been overlooked in communication and lifestyle studies, reveals that one of the indicators of proximity to the Imam is the successful establishment of communicative dimensions with fellow Shia believers.
This principle forms the basis for regulating relationships within families and among believers. Unlike Western communication models rooted in individualism, indifference, and competition over interests, this paradigm fosters greater social responsibility among community members. Moreover, it facilitates selfless service and affection toward others without pretense or expectation, imbuing all social interactions with a sacred and Wilāya-oriented approach.
The innovative contribution of this article lies in its unique perspective on the concept of Wilāya and its novel application in redesigning lifestyle paradigms.

Keywords

Wilāya (Guardianship)

Lifestyle

Imam al-Riḍā (as)

Social Communication System

Subjects

Promotion and deepening of Razavi culture and education

Holy Quran.

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