Imam Khomeini through his works explains the matter as following:
No one gives it the importance of which it is worthy.
Due to the lack of spiritual and gnostic works in the seminaries, material and worldly problems have come so far as to penetrate the clergy [ruhaniyyat], and has kept many of them away from holiness and spirituality [ruhaniyyat].
So that they do not even know what ruhaniyyat means, nor what the responsibilities of a cleric are and what kind of programs they should have. Some of them merely plan to learn a few words, return to their own localities, or somewhere else, and to grab facilities and position, and to wrestle with others [for them].
Like one who said: “Let me study Sharh al-Lum‘ah and then I will know what to do with the village chief!” Do not be this way, that from the beginning you aim to win someone’s position by studying, and that you intend to be the chief of some town or village.
You may achieve your selfish desires and satanic expectations, but for yourself and the Islamic community you will acquire nothing except harm and misfortune.
Mu‘awiyah was also chief for a long time, but for himself he achieved no result or benefit except curses and loathing and the chastisement of the life hereafter.
It is necessary for you to refine yourselves, so that when you become the chief of a community or a clan, you will be able to refine them, as well.
In order to be able to take steps toward the reform and development of a community, your aim should be service to Islam and the Muslims.
If you take steps for the sake of God, God the Almighty is the turner of the hearts.
He will turn hearts in favor of you:
“Surely for those who believe and do go