Wahabism Religion as a legitimating element of political power in Saudi Arabia, 1932-2005.

Abstract

The relationship between Wahhabism and Saudi political power has been close and supportive since the foundation of the first Saudi State until today. Without the Saud's support for Wahhabism, he would not have achieved the dominant position in the Islamic world of the Arabian Peninsula. On the other hand, without the support of Wahhabism at the house of Saud it is unlikely that this dynasty would have gained political control of the country. Wahhabism provided the basis on which the Saud claimed legitimacy, both to unify the various territories that made up Arabia, and to hold the government over them. However, this symbiotic relationship has also had a restrictive element, since the Government has always had to act within the circle prescribed by the Wahhabi ulemas in order to maintain its support. Policies considered offensive by the religious sensitivity of Wahhabism have been avoided by political power.