Deviant movements and false claimants of Mahdism have created, and continue to create, various challenges — including security challenges — for societies, particularly the Islamic Republic of Iran. These security challenges can be categorized into theoretical and practical types. So far, most discussions about the security aspects of deviant sects have been limited to describing and criticizing these movements; therefore, it is necessary to address and explain these challenges more concretely. In this regard, this study, using a descriptive-analytical method, examines the security challenges posed by deviant movements and false claimants of Mahdism. The author concludes that among the theoretical challenges are: shifting priorities; confusing the friend-enemy and insider-outsider distinctions; creating various social divisions; opportunism; institutionalizing oppression, tyranny, and colonialism; encouraging and committing murder; opposing the Islamic Revolution, the Islamic Republic, and the Guardianship of the Jurist (Velayat-e Faqih); and weakening the institution of the family, among others. The practical challenges include the promotion of superstitions and false beliefs, as well as opposition to religious authorities (Maraji‘ al-Taqlid), among others.
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Lakzaei, R. (2024). Security Challenges Posed by Deviant Movements and False Claimants of Mahdism. Waíad al-Umam, 1(2), 10-45. doi: 10.22081/jpnq.2025.72462.1018
MLA
Lakzaei, R. . "Security Challenges Posed by Deviant Movements and False Claimants of Mahdism", Waíad al-Umam, 1, 2, 2024, 10-45. doi: 10.22081/jpnq.2025.72462.1018
HARVARD
Lakzaei, R. (2024). 'Security Challenges Posed by Deviant Movements and False Claimants of Mahdism', Waíad al-Umam, 1(2), pp. 10-45. doi: 10.22081/jpnq.2025.72462.1018
CHICAGO
R. Lakzaei, "Security Challenges Posed by Deviant Movements and False Claimants of Mahdism," Waíad al-Umam, 1 2 (2024): 10-45, doi: 10.22081/jpnq.2025.72462.1018
VANCOUVER
Lakzaei, R. Security Challenges Posed by Deviant Movements and False Claimants of Mahdism. Waíad al-Umam, 2024; 1(2): 10-45. doi: 10.22081/jpnq.2025.72462.1018