THE GREAT SATAN

Iran Calls America the Ultimate Deceiver and the Irony of Iblis

For a long time, Iran has referred to the United States as "The Great Satan." This label, rooted in their political and religious views, is not just a catchy slogan but a reflection of how they see America's influence on the world and, particularly, the Muslim world. To understand why Iran feels this way, we need to look at both the Islamic perspective and the history behind it. Interestingly, by the end of this piece, we’ll also look at Iblis—the Islamic figure often equated with Satan—and how his role may offer an ironic twist to this whole idea.

The Islamic View of America as "The Great Satan"

In Iran’s eyes, the United States is not just a country; it represents a force that pulls people away from faith and morality. In Islam, Satan (or "Shaytan") is seen as a deceiver who tempts people into forgetting their duty to God. Iran's leaders believe that the U.S., through its culture and foreign policies, tempts the Muslim world away from true Islamic values.

America’s push for secularism, materialism, and consumerism is viewed as directly opposed to the moral and spiritual life that Islam promotes. For example, American movies, products, and even lifestyles are seen as harmful distractions from faith. But it doesn’t stop there. Iran also points to U.S. actions in the Middle East—wars, support of oppressive regimes, and backing of Israel—as proof that America is more than just a cultural threat; it’s a destructive force on the global stage.

To Iranians, America is acting like a tempter, spreading greed, injustice, and moral corruption. So, calling the U.S. "The Great Satan" fits with the belief that the U.S. is leading people and nations away from the path of righteousness, much like Satan himself.

The Story of Iblis in Islam

In Islamic teachings, Iblis is the figure who refused to bow to Adam when God asked the angels to do so. Because of this, he was cast out of heaven and became known as the tempter of humanity. But unlike the way Satan is viewed in Christianity—as a rebel who despises God—there’s more nuance in the Islamic story.

Iblis didn’t refuse to bow because he hated God. He did it out of his deep love for Allah. He believed that only God should be worshipped, and bowing to Adam was against that belief. So, his defiance was rooted in his commitment to God’s supremacy.

As a result, Iblis accepted the role of tempting humans away from righteousness. However, he never stops being a servant of God, fulfilling a necessary role in the grand scheme of things.

The Irony of Calling America "The Great Satan"

Here’s where the irony comes in. If we understand Iblis as a figure who—despite his defiance—still serves a divine purpose, then calling America "The Great Satan" takes on a deeper meaning. In this light, we see America as playing a similar role.

Just as Iblis tempts humans with worldly desires, I would argue that America tempts nations with our wealth, power, and lifestyle, offering what looks like success but comes at a price of spiritual and moral decay. Just as Iblis’s role is part of God’s plan, America’s influence forces nations like Iran to strengthen their resolve, to hold firm to their values in the face of temptation.

It’s a strange thought, but even in its perceived corruption and greed, America may be fulfilling a divine purpose. This doesn’t make America’s actions justifiable in Iran’s eyes, but it does add a new layer of nuanced complexity.

Conclusion

Iran views America as "The Great Satan", but if we take a step back and consider the role of Iblis, the story becomes more complicated. Iblis, despite his defiance, was acting out of love for God and agreed to be the tempter. In that sense, America, too, might be playing a role that forces nations and individuals to make tough choices about their own values.

The irony here is that what Iran calls "The Great Satan" could, in fact, be seen as “The Great Servant”.