Why Didn't Khomeini Declare Himself Shah After the 1979 Iranian Revolution?

The Iranian Revolution of 1979 marked a significant turning point in the country's history. At the center of this shift was Ayatollah Khomeini, who emerged as a pivotal figure, but his approach to leadership differed fundamentally from the Shah he replaced. It is not that Khomeini was reluctant or unambitious; rather, the structure of his leadership and the historical context informed his choices.

Historical Context and Leadership Role

Since the Ghajar period, the tradition held that a mullah would place the crown on the head of the king, symbolizing the religious legitimacy of the regime. Reza Shah broke from this tradition, choosing to assume the title of Shah himself. Khomeini, however, had different ambitions. He was not a political opportunist seeking to take control but rather a religious leader aspiring to establish an Islamic state.

Ayatollah's Vision for an Islamic Iran

Khomeini’s vision for Iran was rooted in Islamic principles. He believed in a society governed by Islamic laws and led by individuals chosen by God. The concept of a traditional monarchy did not fit his ideals. He advocated for an Islamic Republic, where the leadership was derived from religious authority, not hereditary power. Khomeini did not seek to declare himself Shah because the Shah merely represented a form of secular rule that was ousted by the revolutionary movements.

Strategic Considerations and Authority

The choice not to declare himself Shah was a strategic decision driven by practical and ideological considerations. As the Supreme Leader, Khomeini could command far more authority than as a Shah. The role of Supreme Leader provided him with a broader base of power and legitimacy, transcending the limitations of a mere monarch. His role as the Supreme Leader allowed him to take credit for positive developments while shifting the blame for negative outcomes onto previous regimes.

Historical Precedents and Parallels

Historically, leaders with immense power often refrain from assuming regal titles. Stalin, for instance, did not declare himself Tsar, despite having significantly greater control than Nicholas II. Similarly, Robespierre did not become King of France, and George Washington refused to be declared King of America. In these examples, the leaders maintained their power while avoiding the trappings of monarchy.

Case Studies

Oliver Cromwell provides another illustrative example. He served as Lord Protector of Great Britain until his death, refusing the crown in favor of a more democratic title. Unlike Khomeini, Cromwell's heirs did not follow his model, leading to the eventual restoration of the monarchy with Charles II. The unique nature of Khomeini's revolution and the immediate post-revolutionary period made it even more unlikely that he would have assumed a title such as Shah.

Conclusion

While Khomeini was not seeking a traditional monarchical position, his rise to power as Supreme Leader was no less significant. His approach reflected a deep-seated belief in religious authority and the potential for creating a theocratic state. This vision, combined with the pragmatic political considerations, made the title of Shah an anachronistic choice, even if it promised fleeting benefits of legitimacy.

Continuing this line of discussion, Khomeini's decision to avoid the title of Shah was a strategic move that aligned with his broader goals for Iran's future.