The Position and Role of Shekh al-Islam in Socio-Political Affairs of Kerman at the end of Safavid Period

• Main Author: Mohammad khodaverdi
• Format: Article
• Language: fas
• Published: University of Isfahan 2015-08-01
• Series: پژوهش های تاریخی
• Subjects: history of Kerman in Safavid era; Shekh al-Islams of Kermen; Shah abd al-ali; Shekh al; Islams of Kermen; Mirza Mozafar Sheykhal-Islams; Shah abd al; ali; Mirza Mozafar Sheykhal; Islams
• Online Access: http://jhr.ui.ac.ir/article_16661_b5978cc8e43aaf6cae05e3f63928e650.pdf

Shekh al-Islam was one of the most significant religious positions during Safavid era. One of the functions of this position was spreading of religious jurisprudence and Shiite beliefs in court and the center of provinces. Seemingly, the appointment for this position was inheritable based on the choice of king and Sadr. The candidate must not only have scientific competences and public acceptance but also inherit this position from his father. Shekh al-Islams were in charge of such affairs including regulation of situation, dismissal and appointment of political and military system, engaged in religious jurisprudence system, fulfill of contracts(vaghf nameh), the economical and constructional activities and removal of social crisesof Kerman. Besides, some of them had effective role in estimation of rate of agricultural products by taking possession of farmlands andalso avoided to pay tax to government. Shekh al-Islam not onlywere not satisfied with their position as representatives of Safavid's government but also endeavored to get promotion by making intrigue and conspiracy in court. The result of such activities was not positive for Safavid's government. This article aims to analyze the socio-political functions ofShekh al-Islam position in Kerman at the end of Safavid era based on analytical-descriptive approach by employing studies.