Ahmad Kasravi's Critique of Sufism and Islam

Ahmad Kasravi, a prominent Iranian historian, lawyer, and intellectual, was a vocal critic of many aspects of traditional Iranian society, including Sufism and mainstream Islam. His critiques were rooted in a desire for modernization, rationality, and the elimination of superstitions, which he believed hindered Iran's progress. Kasravi's views were controversial and attracted significant opposition, ultimately leading to his assassination by radical Islamists. This article delves into Kasravi's perspectives on Sufism and Islam, exploring the basis of his criticisms and their impact on Iranian society.

Ahmad Kasravi: A Brief Background

Ahmad Kasravi was born in 1890 in Tabriz, Iran. Initially educated as a cleric, he later turned to secular studies, becoming an influential intellectual and reformist. His works spanned various fields, including history, language, and religion. Kasravi's critical approach to traditional religious practices and his calls for secularism and rationalism earned him both admiration and enmity.

Kasravi's Critique of Sufism

Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, emphasizes the inner, personal experience of God and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Sufism has historically been a significant part of Iranian religious culture, with numerous Sufi orders and influential mystics.

However, Kasravi viewed Sufism as a major impediment to progress. He criticized it for promoting superstitions, irrational beliefs, and practices that, in his view, distracted people from practical and rational approaches to life. Kasravi argued that Sufism encouraged passivity and fatalism, which undermined the drive for social and economic development.

In his work "Sufism," Kasravi stated, "Sufism has inflicted significant harm on the minds and souls of Iranians, leading them away from rational thinking and productive action" (Kasravi, 1943). He believed that the focus on spiritual experiences and mysticism diverted attention from addressing the practical issues facing society, such as poverty, illiteracy, and political corruption.

Critique of Mainstream Islam

Kasravi's critique was not limited to Sufism; he also challenged many aspects of mainstream Shia Islam, which is the dominant branch of Islam in Iran. His criticism centered on what he saw as the rigid dogmatism and the clerical establishment's resistance to change.

Kasravi believed that many religious practices and beliefs were outdated and based on superstitions rather than reason and evidence. He argued that the clerical establishment wielded significant power over the populace, using religious authority to maintain control and resist modernizing reforms.

In his book "Shi’ism," Kasravi asserted, "The clergy have used religion as a tool to keep the people in ignorance and subjugation, preventing any progress that could threaten their power" (Kasravi, 1944). He was particularly critical of the rituals and practices he considered to be innovations that deviated from the original teachings of Islam.

Kasravi advocated for a return to what he saw as the core, rational principles of Islam, stripped of the superstitions and dogmas that had accumulated over centuries. He believed that this approach would allow Iran to modernize and progress, free from the constraints imposed by the religious establishment.

The Impact of Kasravi's Views

Kasravi's radical views and outspoken criticism made him a target for conservative religious factions, particularly the Fada'iyan-e Islam, an extremist Shiite organization. His assassination in 1946 by members of this group underscored the intense opposition he faced from those who saw his ideas as a direct threat to their authority and beliefs.

Despite his tragic death, Kasravi's critiques have had a lasting impact. His works continue to be studied and debated, reflecting ongoing tensions between modernist and traditionalist forces in Iran. His calls for rationalism, secularism, and reform resonate with those who seek to challenge the power of the clerical establishment and promote progressive change.

Conclusion

Ahmad Kasravi's critiques of Sufism and mainstream Islam were driven by his desire for a rational, modern, and progressive Iran. He viewed Sufism as promoting irrationality and passivity, and he challenged the clerical establishment's resistance to change and modernization. Kasravi's bold critiques and reformist ideas made him a controversial figure, ultimately leading to his assassination. However, his intellectual legacy endures, highlighting the ongoing struggle for progress and enlightenment in Iranian society.

Sources:

Kasravi, Ahmad. Sufism. 1943.

Kasravi, Ahmad. Shi’ism. 1944.

Milani, Abbas. The Persian Sphinx: Amir Abbas Hoveyda and the Riddle of the Iranian Revolution. I.B.Tauris, 2000.

Abrahamian, Ervand. A History of Modern Iran. Cambridge University Press, 2008.

Ghods, Mohammad Reza. Iran in the Twentieth Century: A Political History. Lynne Rienner Publishers, 1989.