A caliph is a religious and political leader in the Islamic world who is considered to be the successor to the Prophet Muhammad. The caliph is seen as the spiritual leader of the Muslim community and is responsible for upholding Islamic law and guiding the Muslim people. On the other hand, a sultan is a title used for a ruler or monarch in some Muslim countries, particularly in the Ottoman Empire. The sultan is a secular leader who holds political and military power, and is often seen as the head of state. While both titles have been used by Muslim rulers throughout history, the caliph is primarily a religious leader, while the sultan is a political and military leader. **

No, one cannot refer to a Sultan as a Western Caliph. The title of Sultan traditionally refers to a ruler in a Muslim-majority country, while the title of Caliph historically refers to the political and religious leader of the entire Muslim community. The concept of a Western Caliph does not align with the traditional understanding of the Caliphate, which historically was centered in the Middle East. Additionally, the term "Western" does not accurately describe the historical or cultural context of the Caliphate. **

It is unlikely that Erdogan will appoint himself as the caliph of the Muslims. While Erdogan has expressed a desire to be a leader for the Muslim world and has made efforts to position himself as a prominent figure in the Islamic world, appointing himself as the caliph would be a controversial and divisive move. It could also lead to backlash from other Muslim-majority countries and Islamic scholars who may not recognize his authority. Additionally, Turkey is a secular state, and such a move could face opposition from within the country. **

No, the name California does not come from the Caliphate or Caliph. The name California is believed to have originated from a Spanish novel published in the early 16th century called "Las Sergas de Esplandián," which described a mythical island named California ruled by a queen named Calafia. The name California was later used by Spanish explorers to refer to the land they discovered in the New World. **

Yes, some Shiites do consider Umar, the second caliph, as a Kafir (non-believer). This belief stems from historical conflicts and differences in interpretation of Islamic teachings between Sunni and Shiite sects. However, it is important to note that not all Shiites hold this belief, and there are varying opinions within the Shiite community regarding the status of Umar. **

Yes, many Shiites do consider Umar, the second caliph, as a kafir (non-believer). This belief stems from the historical conflicts and disagreements between the Sunni and Shiite sects regarding the rightful successors to Prophet Muhammad. Shiites believe that Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet, should have been the immediate successor after Muhammad's death, and they view the first three caliphs, including Umar, as illegitimate rulers. This belief has led to the vilification of Umar in the eyes of many Shiites. **

Yes, Shiites do not consider Umar, the second caliph, as a disbeliever. However, they have different views on his leadership and actions during his time as caliph. Shiites believe that Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, should have been the rightful successor after the Prophet's death, and they view Umar's caliphate as a deviation from the true path of leadership. **

The role of the Caliph in Islam and the role of the Pope in Catholicism have some similarities but also significant differences. Both positions are considered to be spiritual leaders and hold significant influence over their respective religious communities. However, the Caliph in Islam is also considered to be a political leader, historically leading the Islamic community as a political and religious figure, while the Pope's role is primarily focused on spiritual matters within the Catholic Church. Additionally, the process of selecting a Caliph and a Pope differs, with the Caliph historically being chosen through various methods including election, appointment, or hereditary succession, while the Pope is elected by the College of Cardinals. **