(Arabic and Persian; lit. ‘source to follow’ or ‘religious reference’). It is a term usually used for a Shi‘i Ithna’ashari religious scholar, also called Āyatullāh al-ʿuẓmā, who is recognised for his scholarship, knowledge and personal piety. According to Shi‘i Ithna’ashari tradition, a marjaʿ has the authority to make legal decisions based on his knowledge and interpretation within the confines of Shi‘i theological doctrines and jurisprudence.
