The Reflection of the Thought of Imamate and Mahdism in the Safavid Era: An Analysis of European Travelers’ Descriptions

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Iranian Studies, Faculty of Humanities, Meybod University, Meybod, Iran

2 M.A. in Islamic Iranian History, Department of Iranian Studies, Faculty of Humanities, Meybod University, Meybod, Iran

10.22081/ihc.2025.72271.1087

Abstract

The thought of Imamate and Mahdism is regarded as one of the fundamental pillars of Shiʿi thought and is rooted in the continuity of Shiʿism in the process of state formation. With the establishment of their rule in the early tenth century AH, the Safavids played a significant role in the expansion of Twelver Shiʿism and its associated thoughts. The Safavid kings made use of belief in the Imamate—especially Mahdism—to legitimize their rule and to enhance their political authority. Adopting a descriptive–analytical approach, this study examines the reflection of beliefs related to the Imamate and Mahdism in the travel accounts of European visitors. By analyzing these travelers’ descriptions of the legitimacy of the government, religious ceremonies, and popular beliefs, the research presents a picture of the political, social, and cultural dimensions of the Imamate and Mahdism in the Safavid period. The findings indicate that, despite scattered references to manifestations of these two concepts, it is possible to gain a meaningful understanding of the role of Imamate and Mahdism in Safavid society. General Shiʿi beliefs such as the Twelve Imams, the succession of the Imams (peace be upon them), the expectation of deliverance, the appearance of the Promised One, and the celebration of the mid-Shaʿban are among the themes addressed by Western travelers in their travelogues.
 
 
 

Keywords

Al-Tarikh Va Al-Hazarah Al-Islamiyah Royat al-Mu'asirah
Volume 6, Issue 1
March 2026
Pages 115-141

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History

  • Receive Date: 10 February 2025
  • Revise Date: 12 March 2025
  • Accept Date: 15 April 2025

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