According to most pre-1900 Muslim political thinkers, the caliph ought to be

This choice inaccurately separates spiritual authority from political leadership, which contradicts the traditional view of the caliph as an integrated leader. While spiritual guidance is a critical role, the caliph was expected to govern the community politically as well.

This option fails to recognize the caliph's dual role in Islamic governance. While political leadership is essential, the caliph's position is inherently linked to religious authority, as the legitimacy of governance was often derived from religious principles and the caliph's role as a protector of Islamic law.

This description mischaracterizes the caliph's role by equating it to that of a prime minister. The caliph was not merely an executor of orders from other leaders; he was the supreme authority in both political and religious matters, unifying these roles rather than serving subordinate functions.