The appointment of a successor had to mean that Imams would...

The appointment of a successor had to mean that Imams would benefit with the same authority and leadership. Assuming that because imams did not historically exercise their political authority and leadership, they do not have this authority and leadership designated to them is a false supposition that cannot stand for itself. Not exercising one's role and function does not prove the non -existence of the authority as is obvious.

"The twelve Imams themselves, and above all, the present twelfth or hidden Imam, were held to be necessary to the constitution of the Universe and of true religion. The Imam is God's proof, he is the pillar of the…