There is no difference between God’s unity and imam’s all-comprehensive authority. When we tend to talk in practical mysticism about God’s unity, we mean prophet Muhammad and his household because they are the guide who lead people toward God. Acquaintance with God is not possible for one except for having knowledge about prophet Muhammad and his household. In consequence, the right spiritual wayfaring leads a mystical traveler to a joint point. Therefore, one who distinguishes between God’s unity and imam’s all-comprehensive authority is clearly mistaken and has no knowledge of practical mysticism through internal illumination. What we are told of is an inward affair, and the heart of any monotheist confirms it. I have personally perceived this fact from the beginning of my spiritual wayfaring until now, and it will be so forever. Our master (SEYED HASHEM MUSAVI HADDAD- our soul may be sacrificed to him) used to emphasize this subject very much. Although he was always accused of excessiveness in God’s unity and weakness in the imam’s all-comprehensive authority by ignorant people in his life (may God forgive them), he tolerated them by the vastness of his kind heart.
Ayatollah Mohammad Saleh Komeily (God graciously preserves him.)
Al-matalib Al-solokieh
