Conflicting views on the issue of Islamic caliphate and imamate and its impact on the unity of the Muslim world constitute one of the most challenging topics in Muslim world, with disagreements on this matter tracing back to the early days of Islam. A logical analysis of this subject by scholars can help prevent a lot of divisions. In this regard, Sayyid Abū al-Aʿlā Mawdūdī and Ayatollah Javadi Amoli have put forward two different perspectives. Mawdūdī regards caliphate as the vicegerency of the Muslim ummah, which is granted to all Muslims by God, rather than being a succession to the Prophet^(s). In his view, the legitimacy of the caliphate comes from the people. In contrast, Javadi Amoli considers imamate and caliphate to be among divine acts and maintains that the Imam and Caliph are appointed directly by God and the Prophet^(s). He defines caliphate as succession to the Prophet, realized only through divine appointment. Both thinkers maintain the caliphate of the Prophet^(s) as divine and textually specified. However, Javadi Amoli holds that Imamate continues to be divinely appointed after the Holy Prophet^(s), whereas Mawdūdī links the legitimacy of governance after him^(s) to election and the consent of people. A critical examination of these two viewpoints can serve as a foundation for scholarly dialogue and rapprochement of perspectives within the Muslim world.