(Teacher)
In chapter two, titled; Mystic States: Martyrdom in the Making of the Islamic Republic, the author describes several details that attempt to explain how the invasion of Iraq had a result of solidification with the political and the strength of Khomeini. The illustration of the disaster of Karbala and the subject of martyrdom of Imam Hussain were successfully created for use as information that was intended to turn the Iraqi army into resilient and more prepared fighters. All the walls and billboards were covered with pictures of Iranian armed forces who died. These men were seen as martyrs in the combat zone combating the army in Iraq. Varzi records the several streets which were re-named to honor some of the martyrs.
The interesting thing is that Varzi mentions that through the creations of missiles and being part of the war is also part of a spiritual experience. She goes on to explain that martyrdom is a symbol of the love and dedication that man has with God. Through the death is a symbol of that loyalty that man has with God, which in itself is a spiritual journey. (Varzi)
Varzi explains how the idea of using death and the mourning music that accompanies it makes her sick to her stomach. It is strange to think of comparing a blood bath with love and spirituality, but that is exactly what she is attempting to communicate. The martyr is thinking of joy and a beautiful angel that carries him away. Although there are people left behind to mourn the death of the martyr, that person would feel as if his death was meaningful and a spiritual experience.
Works Cited
Varzi, Roxanne. Warring Souls. Durham: Duke University Press, 2006. Print.
