The notion of a Shi`ite spiritual guide in Iran contradicts the tradition of selecting "marji`"s in Shi`ite tradition. It is said that a marji` rises purely on the basis of reputation, just like the reputation of a physician. But Khamenei did not have such reputation. He was appointed by Khumayni only because he was angry at Muntazari, who was put under house arrest. And Khamenei has no record to speak of. He also is quite boring. I have never met a Shi`ite who truly admires Khamenei; and I always feel that Hizbullah leaders and members are making an effort to appear in admiration of him.