MAHDI ARMY Meaning and
Definition
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The Mahdi Army is a Shiite paramilitary group in Iraq, originally founded and led by the prominent Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr. The term "Mahdi" refers to the Islamic belief in the coming of a messianic figure known as the Mahdi, who is expected to establish justice and equity on Earth. The Mahdi Army emerged following the invasion of Iraq in 2003, primarily as a response to the oppressive policies of the newly formed Iraqi government.
It is a militia-based organization that initially aimed to resist foreign occupation, particularly the United States forces, and defend the Shiite community from rival Sunni insurgent groups. The Mahdi Army gained popularity among the Shia population as they portrayed themselves as protectors of Shiite rights and defenders against oppression.
The group engaged in various activities, including armed resistance, social services, and maintaining law and order in Shiite neighborhoods. They became a significant force during the sectarian violence in Iraq between 2006 and 2008, contributing to the escalation of Shiite-Sunni tensions.
The Mahdi Army faced criticism too, often accused of being involved in sectarian killings, attacking Sunni civilians and mosques, as well as engaging in militia warfare against rival Sunni groups. The organization was officially disbanded in 2008, after a ceasefire agreement, but it is widely believed that remnants of the Mahdi Army continue to exist under different names or within other Shiite militias in Iraq.
Etymology of MAHDI ARMY
The word "Mahdi Army" has its etymology rooted in the Islamic faith, specifically in the concept of the Mahdi. The term "Mahdi" refers to the prophesied redeemer or guided one in Islamic eschatology who will come at the end of times to establish justice and peace. The Mahdi is an important figure in various branches of Islam, including Sunni and Shia.
The "Mahdi Army" is a term associated with the militia group formed by Iraqi Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr during the early 2000s. It was initially called Jaysh al-Mahdi, which translates to the "Army of the Mahdi". The use of the term "Mahdi Army" is reflective of al-Sadr's intention to present his group as defenders of the oppressed and promoters of justice, who are aligned with the anticipated coming of the Mahdi.
