Ismailis in iranian

Ismailis in Iran!

The Ismaili community has a significant presence in Iran, with a history dating back to the 8th century. Here's a brief overview:

History:

The Ismaili faith originated in the 7th century with the teachings of Ismail ibn Ja'far, a grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. The Ismailis believed that Ismail was the rightful successor to the Prophet, rather than his brother Abbas, who founded the Abbasid Caliphate. This led to a split in the Islamic community, with the Ismailis forming a distinct sect.

In Iran, the Ismailis were initially persecuted by the Abbasid Caliphate, but they managed to establish a strong presence in the region. During the 10th century, the Fatimid Caliphate, which was founded by an Ismaili leader, conquered Egypt and established a powerful empire that stretched from North Africa to the Middle East.

Modern Era:

In the 20th century, the Ismaili community in Iran faced significant challenges. During the Pahlavi dynasty (1925-1979), the Iranian government actively persecuted the Ismailis, viewing them as a threat to the country's Shia majority. Many Ismailis were forced to flee Iran or practice their faith in secret.

After the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the new Islamic Republic of Iran continued to view the Ismailis with suspicion. The government accused them of being "deviant" and "apostates," and many Ismailis were arrested, imprisoned, or forced to flee the country.

Current Situation:

Today, the Ismaili community in Iran is estimated to be around 20,000-30,000 people, mostly concentrated in the cities of Tehran, Mashhad, and Qom. While the government still views the Ismailis with suspicion, the community has managed to maintain a relatively low profile and continue their religious practices in secret.

The Aga Khan IV, the current leader of the Ismaili community, has made efforts to improve relations with the Iranian government. In 2015, the Aga Khan IV visited Iran and met with Iranian officials, marking a significant step towards improving relations between the two.

Challenges:

Despite these efforts, the Ismaili community in Iran still faces significant challenges. Many Ismailis are forced to practice their faith in secret, and there are reports of government surveillance and harassment. The community also faces economic and social challenges, including limited access to education and employment opportunities.

Conclusion:

The Ismaili community in Iran has a rich history and a strong sense of identity, despite facing significant challenges and persecution. While there are still many obstacles to overcome, the community remains resilient and committed to preserving their faith and cultural heritage.