These conditions of the Shiite authority are no different from those of the Sunnis, Kurds and the international community. They are all part of a general framework that can be summarized in two words — civil state. This state should be built on a sense of citizenship and equal opportunity for all Iraqis, creating a general consensus to protect the country from terrorist and other threats and implementing political, economic and administrative reforms that will contribute to the country’s welfare and prosperity.
Sistani’s concept of the civil state was met with significant controversy, as it was not an attempt to reduce religious radicalism, and it did not support one sect over another. It was, rather, based on a deep faith that religion cannot be practiced freely and securely amid political conflict and in the absence of a civil framework for a state that allows it to protect religious diversity and foster pluralism.
Sistani has always believed in protecting religious, confessional and cultural diversity. In addition, he believes in defending the right to be different as a means of interaction and coming to agreement rather than settling for separation, in Iraq and the region.
Sistani’s vision in this regard essentially stems from the delicate relationship between religion and politics. He views politics as a regulatory structure for the state. In this capacity, it should protect society’s cultural diversity and aim to provide a suitable environment for freedom of religious choice as a condition for social peace and as a way to experience its spiritual dimensions, away from politics.
Iraq is the beating heart and engine of the Shiite currents at the religious, social and symbolic levels, because the sect's religious authorities, sanctuaries and prominent mosques are located there. The Najaf authority is the Shiites' core spiritual inspiration, regardless of the other authorities around the world.
Comments are closed.