Taqlid: Can Marji‘iyyah and Leadership Be Combined in One Authority?

Practical Laws of Islam as per the teachings of Imam Khamenei

Taqlid: Can Marji‘iyyah and Leadership Be Combined in One Authority?

English:

Question #15

According to the opinion of the late Imam Khomeini (q.), a marji‘, in addition to the rules of the rites of worship and transactions, he should know political, economic, military, social, and leadership matters. We used to follow the late Imam Khomeini (q.) and now, upon the guidance of some respected scholars as well as our recognition, we feel obliged to refer to you in matters of taqlīd. In this way we combine both supreme leadership and the office of marji‘iyyah. What is your opinion in this regard?

Answer #15

The conditions of the eligibility of a marji‘ in matters of taqlīd are mentioned in detail in Taḥrīr al-Wasīlah and other books on practical laws of Islam. It rests with the mukallaf to recognise who enjoys all taqlīd requirements.

- Imam Khamenei, Practical Laws of Islam, Rules of Taqlid, Conditions of Taqlid