احمد بیگلری

This study explores the conceptual metaphor of GOVERNMENT AS A CAMEL as presented in Nahjul-Balagha, a seminal work of literature attributed to Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib. Utilizing the framework of cognitive linguistics, specifically the theory of conceptual metaphors, the research examines how the metaphor encapsulates complex ideas related to governance, leadership, and social responsibility. An attempt is made to answer the question: What implications can the semantic domain of "camel" have for the semantic domain of "government"? By analyzing key passages from Nahjul-Balagha, this article infers several conceptual mappings such as the teleological approach to governance, the rebellious nature of power and the necessity of confronting abuse of power, the competence of the leader, meritocracy in offices, etc. The findings suggest that this metaphor not only reflects Imam Ali's views on the hardships and responsibilities of leadership but also provides a lens through which modern readers can understand the intricate relationship between rulers and their communities. Ultimately, the study aims to highlight the relevance of this metaphor in contemporary discussions on governance, emphasizing the continued significance of Imam Ali's insights in addressing current political challenges.

Mohammadreza Hakimi is one of the contemporary Shia thinkers who is in the continuation of the "Tafkik School". Tafkik School as a stream originating from the Shia Islam, is theologically based on special foundations that can be influential in the political; That is, it is something that can be traced to the field of "political theology". Theology is a knowledge that seeks to explain God's relationship with the universe, especially humans. But political theology seeks to find the theological foundations of the political; That is, it examines how the political is articulated according to the way of looking at God's relationship with man and the world. Different religions can have their own political theology according to the way they explain this relationship. The present article seeks to answer the question that what formulation of the political is represented by Mohammadreza Hakimi's interpretation of the theological foundations of Shia? In line with the answer, first the relationship between God and man is depicted in the Shiite approach. Because of His grace, God sends prophets to guide man to the ultimate goal of the creation. These prophets actually provide the correct model of human life to achieve the goal. In this approach, after the death of the Prophet, it is the Imam who continues the model of guidance. In addition to receiving and delivering revelation, he has other roles of the prophet, including political and social leadership. During the period of the Major Occultation, the Imam's deputy is someone whose rule is similar to his rule; It means government based on justice, especially on social justice.