Social Interactions and Actions of Jawanmardi Groups

Jawanmardi is an established sect in Iran that was initially formed as a social action to realize the rights of the oppressed, and over time thrived in terms of theoretical fundamentals, teachings, and practices, while also divided up into various movements and associations. Such groups played a substantial role in the community during diverse epochs. Precisely in the wake of Islam, the social actions of Jawanmardan were significantly reformed in a way that some Islamic scholars consider Islamic mysticism as the major source of impact for Javanmardi groups, specifically futuwwat. Although Jawanmardi has been a serious social movement in the history of Iran, its significant dimensions, i.e. social interactions and actions, are yet to be investigated. In fact, their theoretical fundamentals, interactions with other groups, and social movements and social actions have not been fully explicated. Taking a historical method a descriptive-analytical approach, the present study analyzes social interactions and actions of Jawanmardan (adherents of Jawanmardi associations). The findings suggest that Jawanmardan were influenced by Islamic mysticism as their major intellectual source while more research reveals the implications of pre-Islam. Additionally, they preserved diligent and restless interactions with mystics, governors, and craftsmen. Jawanmardi associations mainly strived to combat oppression, serve humans regarding guardianship of cities, prodigality, altruism, maintaining safety, as well as patrolling ways and pilgrimage and commercial caravans (travelers journeying together).