Periods of Jahiliyya

Following the passing of the Prophet, Shia theology posits that a new form of Jahiliyya emerged, one that was more insidious as it cloaked itself in the garb of Islam. This phase is characterized by the political and theological schisms that followed the Prophet’s demise, particularly the struggle for rightful leadership. Shia Muslims contend that the flawed succession led to the distortion of Islamic principles, introducing elements of ignorance back into the fabric of the community.

This cultural amnesia, as depicted within Shia teachings, serves as a stark reminder of humanity’s propensity to revert to Jahiliyya despite the reception of divine guidance. The usurpation of the rightful authority of Imam Ali (AS) can be seen as a quintessential representation of this regression. The Shia narrative insists that the failure to uphold justice, solidarity, and moral rectitude, as exemplified by the Imams, mirrors the Jahiliyya mentality.

The metaphorical “veil” over collective consciousness returns, obscuring the essence of true faith. Thus, the Shia call to action is not merely theological but deeply existential; it compels believers to persistently reengage with the core values propagated during the Prophet’s era and safeguard them against the encroachments of ignorance.