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'''Ayatollah''' is a [[religious]] title for a leader of [[Shia]] [[Muslim]]s, and also function as the religious leaders of the Islamic Republic of [[Iran]]. They historically opposed both the [[Qajar]] and [[Pahlevi]] dynasties in various ways. In 1978 they succeeded in overthrowing the [[Shah]] of Iran.  In 1979, when the [[US]] admitted the Shah for medical treatment, the ayatollahs led an attack on the U.S. [[embassy]], causing the [[Iran Hostage Crisis]]. The current Supreme Leader of Iran is Ayatollah [[Ali Khamenei]].

'''Ayatollah''' is a title conferred on [[Shia]] [[Muslim] clerics who are considered expert in Islamic studies. It's literal meaning is "Sign of God" The title of Grand Ayatollah is reserved for those who have reached the very highest standards of expertise in Islamic jurisprudence.  

 

In the West the term has become synonymous with [[Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini]] who led the revolution that overthrew the Shah of Iran, Mohammmad Reza Shah Pahlavi in 1979.

 

The current Supreme Leader of Iran is Grand Ayatollah [[Ali Khamenei]].  

[[Category:Iran]]

[[Category:Iran]]

[[Category:Islam]]

[[Category:Islam]]