What is an Ayatollah in Islam?

An Ayatollah is a prominent leader in Shia Islam. The title combines Arabic words for “sign” (ayat) and “God” (Allah). Muslims often translate the title as “Sign of God,” which reflects the high standing that an Ayatollah has in Shia Islam. An Ayatollah is a scholar of Shia Islamic law and doctrine. His teachings are based on writings that all Muslims consider sacred: the Quran and the Hadith. Through his teaching and writing, an Ayatollah leads, teaches, and guides Shia Muslims. Followers revere men serving as Ayatollahs for their wisdom, faith, and courage.

Islam is made up of 90% Sunni Muslims and 10% Shia Muslims. Both branches believe in Allah, the Prophet Muhammad, and the teachings of the Quran and Hadith. Most Shia Muslims live in Iran, although sizable populations also reside in Iraq and Lebanon. The division between Sunni and Shia is rooted in the early history of Islam. The division involves disagreements over who should have succeeded Muhammad. It also concerns which sacred writings Muslims should consider authoritative.

One belief that separates Sunni and Shia Islam is the belief in the Twelve Imams. This doctrine is closely connected to the role of the Ayatollah. According to Shia teaching, the Twelve Imams are a line of twelve leaders who succeeded Muhammad in guiding Muslims. Twelvers believe that the last Imam is hidden. They believe Allah has concealed him until the time is right for his return. Until he is revealed, Ayatollahs provide guidance to Shia Muslims through their teaching and writing.

Ayatollahs write theology, philosophy, and law. They make judgments on specific individual and social matters according to Sharia Law. In Islam, Sharia Law refers to Allah's law as revealed in the Quran and the traditions of Muhammad. The Shia view of the law differs from the Sunni view. Shia Muslims grant special authority to the Imams and place greater emphasis on reason and the teachings of Muhammad's family in applying the law.

The Grand Ayatollah has a special role in Shia Islam. He differs from other Ayatollahs in that he is regarded as one of the highest authorities in Shia Islam. Believers may follow his guidance on religious matters. Notable Grand Ayatollahs include Ruhollah Khomeini (1900–1989), Hossein Ali Montazeri (1922–2009), and Ali al-Sistani (born 1930).

Many Shia Muslims follow a particular Ayatollah whose teachings, writings, and views they admire. Ayatollahs play significant theological and social roles in Shia Islam. Shia Muslims also look to them for guidance on daily matters such as prayer, fasting, marriage, work, and business.

Several Ayatollahs have played especially influential roles in modern Shia history. The role of Ayatollah is a 20th-century creation. Since then, there have been thousands of them. Prominent ones include Ruhollah Khomeini (1900–1989), Hossein Ali Montazeri (1922–2009), and Ali Khamenei (1939–2026). Montazeri is known for being Khomeini's chosen successor in 1989. Khomeini is known for leading the Iranian Revolution. He also founded the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1979. Khamenei is known for serving as Iran's second Supreme Leader. The Israeli and American militaries assassinated Khamenei in February of 2026.

Most Ayatollahs in Shia Islam are teachers, not politicians. However, in Iran, a major center of Shia Islam, some Ayatollahs have a role in government. This practice is rooted in the belief that qualified Islamic leaders should help guide society. In particular, the Supreme Leader has significant authority in the government and country. Supporters regard him as both a political leader and a senior religious authority.

From a biblical perspective, Islam is a false religion. As such, Ayatollahs promote false teachings. Jesus Christ commanded His followers to make disciples of all nations, including Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon (Matthew 28:19–20). Christians should pray for the salvation of all Muslims and for their genuine embrace of these words of Jesus: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).