The transition from tradition to modernity represents a significant challenge in the humanities, particularly in the realm of political science where the shift towards the modern state is a focal point of inquiry. This process of transition engenders an interim period characterized by uncertainty, resulting in a critical and unstable state identity in Iran. The liminal state and the concomitant absence of a defined identity are central themes in the scholarly work of Javad Tabatabai. He posits that the modern era of Iranian history commenced at a juncture where traditional paradigm proved inadequate in addressing the exigencies of the new world order. He conceptualizes contemporary Iran as existing in a state of liminality, neither fully traditional nor modern, encapsulating the current Iranian crisis. This contemporary thinker elucidates the continuity of Iran amidst its decline through a complex system of concepts, with the notion of “Iranshahr” at its core. Notably, Tabatabai’s proposed solution neither advocates a return to tradition nor suggests a mere replication of European modernity. While his ultimate objective is to contribute to the establishment of a modern tradition of thought, with an emphasis on political philosophy, he recognizes that the transition from the old state to the...