The Fluidity of the Borderline between Shiite and Sunni Political Thought in Modern Times, a Rereading of Imam Khomeini's Velayat - e- Faqih Doctrine by Towfig Al - Shavi

Despite substantial differences in the Shiite and Sunni political thought, one can also detect similarities in their subjects and methods. This article tries to give a Sunni interpretation of Imam Khomeini, s Velayat – e – Faqih doctrine as viewed by Towfigh al.Shavi. This view points out significant elements like the role of people and consultation in decision - making. Al- Shavi believes that these elements demonstrate a convergence of views of the two Islamic sects as regards fundamentals of Islamic politics. This is because one can discern a distance from the notion of full domination in the thought of the Sunnis and a distinction between democratic appointment and the divine one in the thought of Shiites, a condition which can lead to a combination of the role of people and the appointment of God. Besides, a rational necessity for the establishment of a government and the union of Islamic law (Shari, a) and politics can act as a unifying force behind the two above - mentioned doctrines in the post - colonialist era.