2.3.4 The Imamate in Shi'a Islam

What is the Imamate in Shi'a Islam?

Who can be an Imamate?

• All Imams are leaders appointed by God to be Muhammad's successors

Origins of the Imamate

• Succession After Muhammad's Death: After the death of the Prophet Muhammad, the Muslim community faced the challenge of selecting a leader to succeed him. Sunni Muslims chose Abu Bakr, Muhammad's father-in-law and close companion, as the first Caliph, or leader. This decision was accepted by the majority of Muslims, leading to the establishment of the Sunni branch of Islam, which makes up about 90% of the global Muslim population.
• Shi'a Perspective on Succession: Shi'a Muslims, who make up around 10% of Muslims worldwide, believe that leadership should have passed directly to Ali, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law. Shi'a Muslims hold that Muhammad specifically chose Ali as his rightful successor. After Ali's death, leadership in the Shi'a community was carried on by a series of twelve Imams, spiritual leaders who are considered to be the true successors of Muhammad, though not necessarily linked by bloodline.

The Twelvers

• The Twelvers and the Twelve Imams: The largest branch of Shi'a Islam is known as the Twelvers, who believe in a succession of twelve Imams following Muhammad. These twelve Imams are regarded as the rightful leaders of the Muslim community, with the Twelfth Imam, also known as the Mahdi, believed to be in occultation (hidden by God) and still alive on Earth.
• Belief in the Mahdi: The Twelvers hold that the Twelfth Imam will reappear at the end of time to bring justice and equality to the world. His return is eagerly awaited by Twelver Shi'a Muslims, and it is believed that until his return, he continues to provide spiritual guidance to those who seek it.

The Seveners (Isma'ili Shi'a)

• Isma'ili Shi'a Beliefs: Another branch of Shi'a Islam, known as the Isma'ilis or Seveners, diverges after the sixth Imam, believing that Isma'il, the son of the sixth Imam, was the rightful seventh Imam. The Isma'ilis believe that the line of Imams continues through Isma'il and his descendants.
• Selection of Imams: Unlike the Twelvers, who believe the Imamate is hereditary and divinely appointed, the Isma'ilis hold that each Imam has the authority to choose his successor. This belief stems from their view that Isma'il was chosen by the sixth Imam, thereby establishing a different line of succession.

The Significance of the Imamate

• Spiritual and Temporal Leadership: The Imamate is a fundamental concept in Shi'a Islam, providing both spiritual guidance and political leadership. The Imams are seen as the true successors of Muhammad, ensuring the continuity of divine guidance and preserving the purity of Islamic teachings.
• Distinctive Shi'a Identity: The belief in the Imamate is a key factor distinguishing Shi'a Islam from Sunni Islam. It shapes the religious, social, and political identity of Shi'a Muslims, uniting them under the leadership of the Imams.
• The Role of the Twelfth Imam: The expectation of the Twelfth Imam's return adds a unique aspect to Shi'a eschatology and spiritual life. The belief in his eventual reappearance to establish justice reinforces the Shi'a commitment to their faith and the authority of the Imams.

The qualities of Imamates

• Inspired by God
• They are without sin
• Spiritual Leader: The Imam is seen as a spiritual guide who leads the community in religious matters. He provides interpretation of the Qur'an and Hadith and offers guidance on how to live a righteous life.
• Political Leader: The Imam is also viewed as a political leader with the authority to govern the Muslim community according to Islamic principles.
• Preserver of Truth: The Imam is responsible for preserving the true teachings of Islam, free from error or corruption. Shi'a Muslims believe that the Imam has a deep understanding of divine knowledge that is beyond ordinary human comprehension.
• Intercessor: The Imam is also seen as an intercessor between Allah and the Muslim community, praying on behalf of believers and seeking forgiveness for their sins.