The Concept of Freedom in the Islamic Revolution of Iran: Alignment with Islamic Law and Values

Abstract

The Islamic Revolution of Iran, as one of the most significant political and social events of the 20th century, brought about profound transformations in key concepts, including freedom. This revolution, emphasizing religious teachings and Islamic values, reinterpreted concepts such as freedom, which had previously been defined within Western modern discourses. The primary objective of this study is to explore how freedom is defined within the framework of the Islamic Revolution and its alignment with Islamic law and moral values. Specifically, this research analyzes the fundamental differences between the concept of freedom in the discourse of the Islamic Revolution and modern liberalist interpretations. This study employs a descriptive-analytical method, utilizing Islamic sources, statements by the revolution’s leaders, and relevant theoretical texts to address the following question: “How is freedom defined within the discourse of the Islamic Revolution, and how does it align with Islamic law and values?” The findings reveal that, within this discourse, freedom is not merely understood as liberation from external constraints but is also defined as servitude to God, social responsibility, and adherence to moral and religious principles. Unlike liberalist notions that emphasize absolute individual autonomy, freedom in the discourse of the Islamic Revolution is intertwined with values such as justice, spirituality, and the public good. This study also examines the place of freedom within the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which emphasizes balancing individual and social rights. For instance, freedom of thought and expression is recognized but must conform to Islamic principles. Ultimately, this article concludes that the discourse of the Islamic Revolution, by offering a model grounded in Islamic values, has introduced a novel and comprehensive concept of freedom that has played a significant role not only in strengthening religious identity but also in ensuring the stability of the social system.