The Strategic Role of Cultural Authority in the Social Life of Shiites (with Emphasis on the Components of The Infallible Imams)

Shiite leaders have always been in a pervasive dilemma of their eras and have not had access to basic sources of power, such as government and the economy. Therefore, the answer to the question "What have been the most important components of the Imams for the extension of Shiite social life?" is an important question that this study seeks to answer based on historical sources and through using the method of analyzing the content of the remaining sayings of the 12 Infallible Imams. The findings show that their most important strategy to get out of this dilemma has been "cultural authority", of which "scientific authority" and "cultural investment" are the most important pillars and as a result, the strengthening and continuation of Shiite life has been achieved outside the sphere of power and overcoming the discourse of the ruling majority. As far as they were concerned, by adopting this vital strategy, they were able to give new life to the half-dead body of the Shiites. In addition to the profound impact on other cultures as well as the development of the influence of the Shiite cultural geography, they reached the pinnacle of true authority and became social power beyond the political realm of the rulers in order to guarantee their social extension. Obviously, using these motivating foundations can be a beacon for the Shiites in the globalization of Shiite culture and play a role in promoting their social authority on the path to the flourishing of the new Islamic civilization.