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The Caliph, the self-styled vicar of the Prophet of Islam, exercised a spiritual sovereignty, and was invested with a sacred character, which the Shah of Persia neither claimed nor possessed. Nor should it be forgotten that the sphere of his spiritual jurisdiction extended to countries far beyond the confines of his own empire, and embraced the overwhelming majority of Muslims throughout the world. He was, moreover, in his capacity as the Prophet's representative on earth, regarded as the protector of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, the defender and propagator of Islam, and the commander of its followers in any holy war they might be called upon to wage.
(99:2)
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