Ghadir and Politics in Imam Khomeini's Political Thought

The present writing is a review of one of the most remarkable and illuminating speeches delivered by Imam Khomeni (may God’s peace be upon him) on the day of Ghadir (Shahriwar 2, 1365/ Dhu-l- Hijjah 18, 1406). In this speech, Imam Khomeini addresses the question of the false belief in the “separation between religion and politics”. This question is fairly common among all Muslims with various religious tendencies. If an answer is given to this common question, this will serve not only as a rejection of the false belief in the ‘separation between religion and politics’ but also as a cause for creating Islamic unity. Imam Khomeini has sought to find the answer in the event of Ghadir Khumm. Basing his argument on the two forms of guardianship (wilÁyah), i.e. ontological guardianship and legislative (revealed) guardianship, Imam Khomeini has shown that the event of Ghadir means “setting up a government”.That is why it can be set up. However, spiritual stations are not appointable. Thus, Ghadir gives the Islamic government ‘nobility’ and ‘unity’, though the latter is inconsistent with the common belief.