I'm currently learning about Middle Eastern history in general, specifically Iran at the moment. However, I'm having difficulty figuring out what the Vilayet-i Faqih / Guardianship of the Jurist system is. Also, I know Khomeini ends up the Supreme Leader after Mohammed Reza Shah is exiled (correct me if I'm wrong there) - but how does his rule relate to the Guardianship?
Thank you so much in advance for any insight you can give!
In Shia Islam, people are free to choose a wise priest who has the qualifications to be a "source of emulation". Khomeini's idea of the basis of Iran's post-Shah govt was based on the idea of that a Supreme Leader who is the ultimate "guide" or "source of emulation" should also have political ruler.