Even the limited powers given to the Most Noble Messenger (PBUH) and those exercising rule after him have been conferred upon them by God.
According to Imam Khomeini, whenever the Prophet (PBUH) expounded a certain matter or promulgated a certain injunction, he did so in obedience to divine law, a law that everyone without exception must obey and adhere to.
Divine law obtains both for the leader and the led; the sole law that is valid and imperative to apply is the law of God, Imam Khomeini explained.
Obedience to the Prophet (PBUH) also takes place in accordance with divine decree, for God says: “And obey the Messenger”(Qur’an, 4:59).
Obedience to those entrusted with authority is also on the basis of divine decree:
“And obey the holders of authority from among you”(Qur’an, 4:59). Individual opinion, even if it be that of the Prophet (PBUH) himself, cannot intervene in matters of divine law; here, all are subject to the will of God.
Read more: