ayatollahs

Ayatollah is a high-ranking title within Shia Islam, most commonly associated with Twelver Shia Islam. The term itself is derived from Arabic and means "sign of God" or "miracle of God." This title is bestowed upon scholars who have attained a significant level of religious knowledge and authority. Ayatollahs are considered to be interpreters of Islamic law and theology, and their rulings and opinions hold considerable weight among their followers.

The hierarchy of Shia clergy includes several ranks, with Ayatollah being one of the highest, often preceding Grand Ayatollah. The path to becoming an ayatollah involves years of religious study in seminaries (hawzas), typically in cities like Qom in Iran or Najaf in Iraq. These studies encompass jurisprudence, theology, ethics, and Quranic exegesis.

In Iran, particularly since the 1979 revolution, certain prominent ayatollahs have wielded significant political power. The concept of Velayat-e Faqih, or guardianship of the jurist, articulated by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, posits that a qualified Islamic jurist should govern in the absence of the Hidden Imam. This principle underpins the political structure of the Islamic Republic of Iran, where the Supreme Leader, who is an ayatollah, holds ultimate authority. Beyond Iran, ayatollahs serve as religious leaders and sources of emulation for Shia Muslims worldwide, guiding them on matters of faith and practice.