An Inquiry into the Concept and Scope of Friendship (Authority)

The term "authority (wiläyah)" and its derivatives have been used 233 times in the Glorious Quran. These terms are sometimes in the form of equivocation and univocation and sometimes have literal and figurative meanings.The term "authority" is applied to a situation where two entities have deep relationship so that they cannot be separated and one influences the other or vice versa. Divine authority is of two kinds: authority in legislation and authority in creation. General dispositions related to all creatures are called "general authority in creation" and particular dispositions related to God's Friends and those who approach to God as much as possible are called "particular authority in creation". "Authority in legislation" in social, conventional, and legislative affairs is taken to mean providing guidelines and law-making which is provided by God to guide men. Then God entrusts this authority to His vicegerents.Nearness to God as much as possible is an acquired nearness which is attained in the light of obedience to Divine decrees, whereby believing servants entrust their affairs to God and totally rely on Him. Those who approach to God enjoy Godwariness and avoid committing sins.