Rather...

Rather, the meaning of the absolute authority of the Jurist is that he has an absolute authority in regards to the enforcement of the Islamic injunctions. This means that the Jurist and Muslim ruler’s absolute authority is limited to the scope of the implementation of the rulings – not that he is able to alter the Islamic commandments!

In addition, the meaning of the absolute authority in regards to the implementation of the rulings is not that the Jurist can put the Islamic laws into practice in any way he sees fit.

Rather, the implementation of the Islamic laws must be carried out in the ways which the sacred teachings have explained that they are to be executed.[^2] The Reason why the Authority of the Jurist is Absolute The reason why the authority of the Jurist is absolute is that during the occultation of Imam al-Zaman (may Allah hasten his return), since Islam must be implemented in all of its dimensions and because all of its societal rules must be put in place, the Jurist is the custodian of the faith.

In order to implement all of the Islamic commandments, the Islamic leader must establish a government so that all aspects of the Islamic regulations - such as the application of the rules of retribution, the economic regulations and all other areas of life (governed by Islam) can be put into action.

In addition, the Jurist who fulfills all of the conditions to implement this system is responsible for putting an end to all forms of societal corruptions and deviations for which he is in need of the co-operation of the entire society, a central system of management and a just and able government. In order to regulate the society and implement the various Islamic regulations, the Muslim leader must be able to appoint individuals to maintain the system.

He must also be able to issue the necessary laws and regulations for the maintenance and preservation of the country, protection of the wealth (of individuals), safety of the people and the freedom and independence of the entire Islamic society. Such laws must also cover the areas of war and peace – as needed.