The analysis of power gaining process and, the rise and fall of families influencing social developments
can be an appropriate way to study history. The period from the Mongol invasion of Iran to the rise of
Safavid dynasty marks one of the most complicated epochs of history in social and cultural perspectives.
Perhaps the emergence of religious identity crisis resulting from the absence of a caliphate position is the
most outstanding social and cultural incident in this period. Like many other regions, Azerbaijan region and
Azari families were affected by these incidents. Identifying influential families in this region will be a good
guide for an in-depth study of political, social and cultural developments of this time. One of the influential
families in that period was Kojajani Family with a rural origin and which has risen to fame through business
activities, mystical tendencies and interests. During these developments, the family shaped their political,
social and cultural thoughts and acts. This paper intends to clarify and analyze in detail the trend Kojajani
Family has been through ever since its formation in the 7th century through the 16 century. The findings
of the paper indicate that families reposition themselves with the changes in conditions and make use of
social instability as an opportunity to gain power. Throughout their lives, the outstanding members of the
Kojajani Family acted according to the political circumstances. The actions of the family members have
taken various forms, e.g., from mystical Qutb (infallible and trusted spiritual leader) to Sheikh ul-Islam
or the chief judge, from mere spiritual-religious rank to the position of viziership (ministerial position).
The family’s shift from Sunni to Shia school of jurisprudence and finally their use of the title of Seyyed
or direct descendant of the Prophet constitute the political, social, and intellectual curve of developments
in this dynasty. The findings of this paper show that the Kojajani Family could progress better during the
era of political and military instability rather than during stability. Not only instability did not prevent their
progress but also paved the way for them. The heads of the family through their expedient actions were
preparing the grounds for progress. They achieved the position of Chief Judge from their mystic positions and
later attained the ministerial position. They changed their religion from Sunni Muslims to Shia Muslims. These
changes were timely and were concomitant with the sociopolitical conditions of the society.
Primary Language | English |
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Subjects | Sociology, Religious Studies |
Journal Section | Research Article |
Authors | |
Publication Date | September 20, 2022 |
Submission Date | July 22, 2021 |
Published in Issue | Year 2022 Issue: 103 |
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