Lets get started with the Islamic Government

The first book you should read is Hukumah al-Islamiyah (the Islamic Government/Governance). It's a collection of lectures on Khomeini's political ideology, thoughts and aspirations. This book has been translated to many languages. You can even download some translations online.

I read the book for the first time when I was a teenager. Back then, I remembered being intrigued and captivated. This wasn't my first introduction to Khomeini. I was already aware of his political success and achievements. Who hasn't?

I guess it's natural for people who already believed in Usoolism to take it further. If you consider your Ayatullah (marja e taqlid / the high-ranking Shia scholar) as a source of guidance/emulation in religious affair then what's stopping you from following him in other matters, such as, business, economics, politics and real-estate?

A few years ago, I revisited Khomeini’s political ideology. What looked rational back when I was younger, doesn’t seem believable now.  Khomeni’s political philosophy seems outdated (stale) and a bit exaggerated from reality. I guess I'm in the minority here since a lot of people (Shias and non-Shias) are still holding steadfast and promoting his political thinking.

The book Hukumah al-Islamiyah portrays Islamic governance into/as an idealistic form. When everything looks idealistic, then it’s hard for anyone to disagree with it.

In a section of the book, dealing with the qualities and qualification for the person/leader holding the leadership of the muslim nation, Khomeini quoted a number of traditions from Imams of ahl al bayt. These traditions are very familiar to Usoolis who are making the case of why they are following a Faqih (Jurist).

In one tradition, Imam specifically told his followers (Shias) to follow the leadership of Shias who are well-versed in their traditions (hadiths narrators). Most Shias already see the virtue and wisdom of following those who are aware/well versed with the teaching of the Imams. That's the main argument used by Khomeini; It makes perfect sense for Faqihs to be followed and obeyed in political matters since they will be the most perfect persons to realise the Islamic governance.

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