One such was a medieval theologian, Taqi al-Din ibn Taymiyya, a sort of Muslim Luther who in reaction to the Mongol onslaught of the 13th century preached a return to the essentials of the faith, which the ulema (clerics) of the time had forsaken.

ECONOMIST: In the name of Islam

Even the mullahs' long-time backers, rich merchants in the bazaar, are taking note of the growing public distaste for clerics in politics.

ECONOMIST: Iran: Booting out the better-known | The

For example, she has made a point of giving air time to radical Iranian clerics who slander this country at the same time Ms. Hughes is trying to promote.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: The way forward for Senate and DHS