The Aga Khan IV was often referred to as a philanthropist, but the description ignores the spiritual impetus for his work.

LISBON, Portugal (AP) — Rahim Al-Hussaini was named Wednesday as the new Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the world’s millions of Ismaili Muslims, following the death of his father. The Aga Khan is considered by his followers to be a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and is treated as a head of state.

LISBON, Portugal — The Aga Khan, who became the spiritual leader of the world’s millions of Ismaili Muslims at age 20 as a Harvard undergraduate and poured a material empire built on billions of dollars in tithes into building homes, hospitals and schools in developing countries, has died. He was 88.