Historical Studies

Historical Studies

An Analytical Study of the Action of Mediation in Local Religious Families: A Case Study of Imam Jomeh Family of Shiraz (1749-1912)

Document Type : Research Paper

Author
Hadi Keshavarz
PhD in History of Islamic Iran, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
10.30465/hcs.2025.50141.2986
Abstract
Abstract
The prominent religious families of Fars, by holding various official positions, had a significant impact on the political and social environment, and many historical developments took place as a result of their actions. Among these families, the Imam Jomeh family stood out, having held the position of Friday Prayer Leader (Imam Jomeh) for two centuries during the Zand, Qajar, and Pahlavi eras. Considering the influential role of the Imam Jomeh family in Fars, this research, using a descriptive-analytical method and relying on historical and documentary sources, explores the actions of this family in the governance of the region.The findings of this research indicate that the Imam Jomeh family attained the highest local positions in Fars by relying on their distinct competencies, through active interaction with ruling authorities, and via connections to central power structures. Furthermore, the family acquired considerable prestige and influence by holding roles that connected them with the daily lives of various social classes—particularly through mediation (interpersonal, intergroup, and governmental) and by serving as a communication channel between political authorities and the local community. Their involvement in cultural activities also significantly contributed to their elevated social status. Additionally, the research provides detailed insights into the activities of this family, especially its most renowned members.
Keywords: Fars, Zand, Qajar, Religious Families, Imam Jomeh family, Mediation
 
Introduction
The influential religious families of Fars represented one of the most prominent social groups in the province and played a pivotal role in its political and social transformations. A scholarly and analytical understanding of the characteristics of these families is essential, given that many of the historical events in Fars were structured around their presence and agency. Among these influential families, the Imam Jomeh family stands out, with a historical presence in the position of Friday prayer leader (Imam Jomeh) of Shiraz dating back to the 12th century AH. This family conducted religious ceremonies at the Vakil Mosque, also known as the Shah Mosque (constructed by Karim Khan Zand), as well as at the Now Mosque, famously referred to as the Atabaki Mosque (built by Atabak Zangi in 615 AH). Notable members of this family include Sheikh Abd al-Nabi (d. 1777 CE), Sheikh Abū Turāb (d. 1856 CE), and Sheikh Mufid Dāvar (1834–1907 CE). Beyond their political and administrative functions, this family commanded respect from the ruling authorities due to their religious and social standing, and they played an active and influential role in cultural and social spheres.
 
Materials & Methods
This study employs a historical research methodology, beginning with an examination of primary familial and documentary sources alongside relevant library materials. Primary studies were undertaken to establish foundational knowledge. Subsequently, a descriptive-analytical approach was applied for data interpretation. The collected data were then thoroughly analyzed to derive the findings of the study.
 
Discussion and Results
Throughout the historical transformations in Fars, the Imam Jomeh family played an influential and multifaceted role across political, religious, and social spheres. Within the political domain, they maintained close interactions with ruling authorities; while in the social domain, they engaged with the daily activities of diverse social strata, thereby acquiring substantial prestige and influence through various events. One of the most prominent social functions of this family was mediation, which, in its historical context, entailed acting as intermediaries among individuals to resolve disputes and conflicts, as well as interceding with the political authority to seek pardons, clemency, or mitigation of penalties. This role was grounded in the mediator’s recognized status and credibility within both the society and the ruling power. In sources related to the Imam Jomeh family, the term equivalent to mediation is 'tavasoti' (meaning intercession or mediation), which frequently co-occurs in associations with this family. Therefore, in this study, the concept refers to the Imam Jomeh family’s intercession at interpersonal, intergroup, and individual-governmental levels within the framework of their official position and roles. Accordingly, this study aimed to analyze and examine the role and position of the Imam Jomeh family by addressing the following research questions: What role and status did the Imam Jomeh family hold in the province of Fars? What were the factors and elements influencing their social, political, and religious status? Which spheres were encompassed by the family’s activities, particularly their mediatory actions?
 
Conclusion
Through their assumption of the positions of Imam Jomeh (Friday prayer leader) and Sadr (chief religious authority), the Imam Jomeh family established itself as one of the most prominent local families in the Fars province. The two-century-long utilization of the privileges associated with the office of Imam Jomeh—including social, religious, and political influence, as well as the administration of religious endowments (waqf)—constituted one of the key factors contributing to the elevation of their status. In addition to this, their proximity to the central government, privileged relations with the governors of Fars, extensive interactions with other influential local families, and financial and economic affluence further consolidated their socio-political standing. While operating within the functional boundaries of their official roles, members of this family played a significant role in addressing and resolving local community affairs. Their mediatory actions encompassed diverse social strata and were shaped within the framework of interpersonal, group, and governmental relationships. The utilization of the Imam Jomeh office’s capacities and the clerical status by members of this family played a pivotal role in advancing their mediatory functions.
Keywords
Fars
Zand
Qajar
Religious Families
Imam Jomeh family
Mediation

Subjects

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Historical Studies
Volume 16, Issue 2 - Serial Number 32
Autumn and Winter 2025-2026
October 2025
Pages 211-243

  • Receive Date 03 October 2024
  • Revise Date 05 December 2024
  • Accept Date 23 February 2025