Religion and politics in Saudi Arabia: The case of Wahhabism

This study is concerned with the political dimensions of Wahhabism which is generally brought into the forefront with its religious content. In this sense, this study tries to explain what kind of a role Wahhabism has played in the formation of the Saudi Regime. The impact of Wahhabism on the Saudi society and the state after the regime's foundation is also sorted out with the help of various cases. The first section discusses the theological aspects of Wahhabism. Within this context, various religious opinions associated with Wahhabism are explained and similar and different aspects between Wahhabism and these opinions are examined. The second section analyzes the transformation of Wahhabism into a political ideology along with its interaction with the political authority. In this context, the rise and development of the Saudi administration is historically evaluated. The final section deals with the relationship between Wahhabism and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia starting from its formation until today. Keywords: Wahhabism, Saudi Arabia, Salafism, Kharijite, Political Islam