An Intellectual Biography of Mohammad Mojtahed Shabestari

This monograph details the life and ideas of Mohammad Mojtahed Shabestari, the leading representative of secular Islam among the Iranian clergy and a pioneer of the Post-Islamist Movements in Iran.

Shabestari stands as the leading representative of secular Islam among the Iranian clergy, advocating for a progressive interpretation of Islamic thought that aligns with modern secular values. This biography delves into Shabestari’s intellectual journey, tracing his evolution from a traditional cleric to a pioneering figure in the Post-Islamist Movements in Iran. The book meticulously examines Shabestari’s philosophical and theological contributions, highlighting his efforts to reconcile faith with reason and democracy. It provides an in-depth analysis of his seminal works, illustrating his critical stance on authoritarian interpretations of Islam and his advocacy for human rights and individual freedoms within an Islamic framework. By shedding light on his unique perspectives and the socio-political context in which he operates, this biography offers readers a nuanced understanding of Shabestari’s impact on contemporary Islamic thought and the broader movement towards secularism in Iran.

The book is an essential read for those interested in Middle Eastern studies, Islamic theology, and the ongoing discourse on the role of religion in modern society.

Katajun Amirpur is a distinguished professor of Islamic Studies at the University of Cologne. Her research encompasses Iranian intellectual history, Islamic reform discourses, gender issues, and Islamic environmental ethics. Among her notable publications are Iran ohne Islam, New Thinking in Islam: The Jihad for Freedom, Democracy, and Women’s Rights, and Khomeini: Der Revolutionär des Islams.