For it is a fundamental principle that the Prophet and the...

For it is a fundamental principle that the Prophet and the Imams should not exhibit any fundamental difference from other human beings in their mode of life; in taking decisions they relied on their own judgement of matters as they appeared to be and often consulted their companions. Their acts took place in accordance with their own will and choice and were based on knowledge acquired by conventional means.

Like other humans they were subject to all the duties and obligations of religious observance. The way in which they exercised their teaching and guiding function in society was not visibly different from that of others as a result of which some people came to…