Corona and Shia leadership in the present era: An examination of Ayatollah Khamenei's point of view in the fight against Coronavirus from a theological perspective

How world leaders reacted to the first pandemic crisis in the 21st century is an issue that has caught intellectuals’ attention in the fight against it. Among these, it is important to examine the performance of Iran's leadership. The Vali-e-Faqih’s approach represents Shi’a religious-political thought in the present century. Examining his views on this global crisis is a new chapter in studies in political theology. In addition, the extremist behavior of several Shi’a makes it necessary to answer the question, “What is the true Shi’a opinion in facing such a crises.” In this article, Ayatollah Khamenei's approach to the Coronavirus pandemic is examined from a theological perspective. He believes that Corona is a test and tribulation for both nations and governments. He offers two strategies for overcoming it. The purpose of this trial in his worldview is gaining an understanding of the weaknesses and strengths of individuals, societies, and governments. In his view, the relationship between science and religion is a relationship between two rational matters that do not contradict each other, and this is an introduction to a kind of religious rationality. In this approach, adherence to proven scientific rules is the same as adherence to religion.