Zealotry

Zealotry is one of the ethical concepts to which the scholars in ethics have always devoted a massive discussion. In books of Islamic traditions it has also been greatly discussed. This term at first was used by the seventh century Muslim Philosopher and Sociologist Ibn Khaldūn (732-808). It is believed that his theory about Zealotry as a stimulating power is his most important accomplishment. He placed the theory of "zealotry" as a basis in the center of his view regarding political sociology and epistemology and created an interesting point for social solidarityIbn Khaldun attributes the formation of a political society, the concentration of authority, establishment and survival of government, the foundation of civilization and advent of the religions to "Zealotry".In this essay, the views of this great scholar have been reconsidered and the positive and negative points involved in his views have been identified using quranic verses and Islamic traditions.