Ijtihad and Government from the Shia Viewpoint.

Abstract

From Shiite scholars’ perspective, who is responsible for leadership and rule of Muslims during the Occultation? What is the scope of his duties and powers? They were main questions addressed in the study. Findings determine three dominant views: first, the governance is only the right of the infallible Imam, and no one else has the right to be in this position; second, the king's monarchy is recognized and the role of the jurists is only limited to holing the religious and judicial positions; third, governance and the administration of social and political affairs of Muslims are considered to be the duties of the just jurists and they should form a government. This descriptive-analytical study indicated that the establishment of a government in the Islamic society is necessary for the institutionalization and realization of scientific jurisprudence in practice.