The Position of Future Imaging Based on the Thoughts of Imam Khomeini

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Futures Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran

2 Ph.D. Student in Media Management, University of Tehran - Kaspian Campus (Tehran, Iran)

3 PHD Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran

10.22084/rjir.2025.31485.3958

Abstract

Objectives



This study aims to examine Imam Khomeini’s (RA) approach to future imaging. The central research question addresses how Imam Khomeini, by drawing upon religious foundations, Shi‘a political jurisprudence, and the exigencies of his era, envisioned a desirable future and played a pivotal role in guiding Iranian society toward the Islamic Revolution.



Methodology



The research employs a qualitative content analysis method with a thematic analysis approach. The primary sources, including Sahifeh-ye Imam (Collected Works of Imam Khomeini) and his Islamic-Political Testament, were analyzed within the frameworks of futures studies.



Findings



The findings indicate that Imam Khomeini’s approach to future imaging represents an integration of three paradigms: exploratory, normative, and intuitive. In the exploratory dimension, emphasis was placed on trend analysis (such as predicting the collapse of the Eastern Bloc). In the normative dimension, the focus was on Islamic values (such as envisioning a just Islamic system). In the intuitive dimension, reliance was placed on religious insights (e.g., the interpretation of “children in the cradle”). This approach, characterized by optimism, a trans-temporal and trans-spatial perspective, and an emphasis on self-reliance, facilitated social mobilization and the achievement of the goals of the Islamic Revolution.



Conclusion



The results demonstrate that Imam Khomeini’s future imaging transcends conventional foresight paradigms. By presenting a conceptual model rooted in religious contexts, it provides an effective framework for analyzing and guiding Islamic societies. This approach can serve as a model and source of inspiration for policymaking and leadership in contemporary Islamic communities

Keywords

References

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Volume 15, Issue 56 - Serial Number 56
November 2025
Pages 163-185

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