The World’s Spiritual Leaders: Who They Are and How Big Their Flocks Are
Brief # 172 Social Justice Policy | By Inijah Quadri | May 23, 2025
Policy Issue Summary
In an era marked by escalating global crises—from climate change and geopolitical conflicts to rising authoritarianism and social inequality—spiritual leaders continue to wield significant influence over billions worldwide. Their roles transcend religious rituals, often intersecting with geopolitics, human rights, and social justice. This article profiles the current heads of major global faiths—Catholicism, Tibetan Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Anglicanism, and Eastern Orthodoxy—examining their leadership styles, political entanglements, and the size of their followings. These figures shape not only the spiritual lives of their adherents but also the moral frameworks through which societies interpret justice, peace, and progress.
Analysis
Pope Leo XIV (Catholicism)
On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost became the first American to ascend to the papacy, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. With a background as a missionary in Peru and head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops, he inherits a Church of approximately 1.4 billion adherents. His early messages have emphasized peace, particularly in conflict zones like Ukraine and Gaza, and he has signaled a commitment to continue the social justice initiatives of his predecessor, Pope Francis. However, his American roots and the political leanings of his family have raised questions about the potential for increased politicization within the Church.
The 14th Dalai Lama (Tibetan Buddhism)
At 89 years old, the 14th Dalai Lama remains a symbol of compassion and resilience for approximately 20 million Tibetan Buddhists worldwide. Living in exile in India since 1959, he continues to advocate for nonviolence and human rights. In a recent statement, he declared that his successor would be born outside of Chinese-controlled Tibet, a move that challenges Beijing’s claims over the reincarnation process and underscores the ongoing struggle for Tibetan autonomy.
Chief Rabbis David Yosef and Kalman Ber (Judaism)
In 2024, Rabbi David Yosef and Rabbi Kalman Ber were appointed as the Sephardic and Ashkenazi Chief Rabbis of Israel, respectively. Their appointments continue the Yosef family’s significant influence within Israeli religious circles. Together, they oversee the spiritual guidance of Israel’s Jewish population, which numbers around 7 million, and play pivotal roles in matters of religious law, conversion, and kosher certification. Their leadership also impacts the broader Jewish diaspora, which totals approximately 15 million globally.
Grand Imam Ahmed el-Tayeb (Sunni Islam)
As the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar since 2010, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb is a leading authority for Sunni Muslims, who constitute the majority of the world’s 1.9 billion Muslims. He has been a vocal advocate for interfaith dialogue and recently called for restraint and dialogue between India and Pakistan amid rising tensions. His leadership emphasizes moderation and has significant influence over Islamic education and jurisprudence worldwide.
Shankaracharyas (Hinduism)
Hinduism, with over 1.2 billion adherents, does not have a single spiritual leader but is guided by various Shankaracharyas who head monastic institutions established by Adi Shankaracharya. In a historic event at the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela, three prominent Shankaracharyas united to issue a joint directive advocating for the protection of ‘Sanatan Dharma’ and the banning of cow slaughter. This collaboration highlights a growing trend toward unity among Hindu spiritual leaders in addressing contemporary social and political issues.
Archbishop of Canterbury (Anglican Communion)
The Anglican Communion, comprising approximately 85 million members, is currently without a spiritual leader following the resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby in late 2024. The process to appoint his successor has been fraught with delays and criticisms of mismanagement. This leadership vacuum comes at a time when the Communion faces internal divisions over issues such as LGBTQ+ inclusion and the role of women in the Church.
Patriarch Kirill (Eastern Orthodoxy)
Patriarch Kirill has led the Russian Orthodox Church since 2009, overseeing a flock of approximately 100 million believers. His tenure has been marked by a close alignment with the Russian state, particularly evident in his support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine. This stance has drawn criticism from other religious leaders, including Pope Francis, and has raised concerns about the politicization of the Church. Despite this, Patriarch Kirill continues to exert significant influence over Orthodox Christianity in Russia and beyond.
Wrap-Up
In a world grappling with multifaceted crises, the influence of spiritual leaders remains profound. Their guidance not only shapes the spiritual lives of their followers but also impacts global discourses on peace, justice, and human rights. As these leaders navigate the complexities of modernity, their actions and teachings will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the moral and ethical contours of our global society.
Engagement Resources
- The Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama (http://dalailama.com/): Official website providing teachings, schedules, and news related to the Dalai Lama.
- Chief Rabbinate of Israel (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chief_Rabbinate_of_Israel): Information on the roles and responsibilities of Israel’s Chief Rabbis.
- Al-Azhar Official Website (https://www.azhar.eg/): Resources and publications from Al-Azhar University and the Grand Imam.
- Sringeri Sharada Peetham (https://www.sringeri.net/): One of the prominent monastic institutions in Hinduism, providing insights into the teachings of the Shankaracharyas.
- Church of England – Archbishop of Canterbury (https://www.churchofengland.org/): Updates on the appointment process for the new Archbishop of Canterbury.
- Russian Orthodox Church – Official Website (https://www.patriarchia.ru/en/): News and statements from the Russian Orthodox Church and Patriarch Kirill.