Grand Ayatollah Shirazi Remarks on Unique Infallibility of 14 Ma’sumeen

On Wednesday, third of Jumadi al-Awwal, the daily scholarly sessions led by Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Sadiq Hosseini Shirazi continued in his residence in Qom, during which the Supreme Marja addressed various jurisprudential questions posed by attendees.

During this session, Grand Ayatollah Shirazi discussed the concept of infallibility and its degrees. His Eminence emphasized that, similar to justice, infallibility exists in different degrees. He asserted that the unique infallibility attributed to the Fourteen Infallibles (peace be upon them) is not applicable to others, including prophets and angels.

Referring to verse six of Surah Al-Tahrim, he noted that while angels never disobey God, their infallibility cannot be equated with that of the Fourteen Infallibles. He further clarified that the sins mentioned in the supplications of the Infallibles, such as those found in Imam al-Sajjad’s prayers as well as Dua-e-Kumayl, represent acts of disobedience within the realm of infallibility. However, he stressed that labeling these acts as sins does not imply true transgression or neglect of primary duty.

Grand Ayatollah Shirazi explained that the humble supplications of the Infallibles serve a pedagogical purpose, mainly reflecting their spiritual states.