Support After Maghrib this Holy month of Ramadhan. Become a partner or make a one-off donation today: https://www.aftermaghrib.com/donate In this episode of After Maghrib, we explore the concept of Marja’iyyah, unpacking what qualifies a scholar to become a Marja’ and the level of authority they hold within the Shia world. Joined by Sayed Hussain Hakim, a student of the Hawza in Najaf, we gain insight into the scholarly journey behind religious leadership. We also address common criticisms of the system, questions around blind following, and voices that reject Marja’iyyah altogether. Finally, we discuss why Najaf remains a central pillar of Islamic scholarship and what the future holds for this deeply rooted tradition.