📿 Understanding IS̤NĀ-ʿASHARĪYAH: The Twelver Shia Sect
Comprehensive Definition
Isnā-ʿAsharīyah (اثناعشرية) refers to the largest branch within Shia Islam, often known as Twelver Shia or Imamiyyah. This sect is distinguished by its belief in a divinely appointed lineage of twelve Imāms, with the final Imām anticipated to return as the Mahdi, the redeemer of Islam. These Imāms are viewed as spiritual and temporal leaders who possess unique religious authority.
Etymology
The term “Isnā-ʿAsharīyah” derives from the Arabic “اثنا عشر” (ithnā ʿashara), meaning “twelve.” It signifies the central tenet of this sect: the acknowledgment and veneration of twelve specific Imāms.
Background and Historical Context
Isnā-ʿAsharīyah Shia originally emerged in the 8th century following a division among Shia Muslims over the rightful succession to the leadership post the martyrdom of Imām Husayn, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. This movement solidified around a canonical list of twelve Imāms, believed to be appointed by divine will.
The Twelve Imāms are:
- Ali ibn Abi Talib
- Hasan ibn Ali
- Husayn ibn Ali
- Ali Zain al-Abidin
- Muhammad al-Baqir
- Ja’far al-Sadiq
- Musa al-Kadhim
- Ali al-Ridha
- Muhammad al-Taqi
- Ali al-Hadi
- Hasan al-Askari
- Muhammad al-Mahdi (The Hidden Imam)
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities with Other Islamic Traditions:
- Core Islamic Beliefs: Monotheism, the prophethood of Muhammad, and the Quran as the holy book.
- Observance of the Five Pillars of Islam (with specific differences in interpretation and practice).
- Emphasis on social justice and community.
Differences within Islam:
- Leadership: Sunnis regard the first four caliphs as rightful leaders after Muhammad, whereas Twelver Shias recognize Ali and his eleven descendants as the rightful Imāms.
- Religious Authority: Twelver Shias believe in the Imāms’ unique spiritual and temporal authority, considered to possess divine knowledge and infallibility.
- Practices: Distinct rituals such as Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Twelver Shia
- Imamiyyah
Antonyms:
- Sunni Islam
- Ismailism (a branch of Shia Islam recognizing only the first seven Imāms)
Related Terms with Definitions
- Imām: A religious leader within Islam, especially referring to the spiritual leaders in Shia Islam.
- Mahdi: The prophesied redeemer of Islam who will rule before the end of the world and restore righteousness.
- Ashura: An annual event marking the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali at the Battle of Karbala.
Exciting Facts
- Hidden Imam: Muhammad al-Mahdi, the twelfth Imām, is believed to be in occultation and will reappear as the Mahdi.
- Ashura: Beyond mourning practices, it encompasses dramatic reenactments and public processions.
- Prominent Centers: Significant centers of Twelver Shia Islam include Najaf and Karbala in Iraq, Qom and Mashhad in Iran.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Without the light of Imamate, darkness would dominate, and we would be left but whispers of ordinary men.” – Sayyid Hussein Nasr
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
For those eager to delve deeper into Islāmic studies and Twelver Shīʿa Islam specifically, the following texts may provide deeper insights:
- “Islamic Philosophy from Its Origin to the Present: Philosophy in the Land of Prophecy” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- “The Shīʿīs: A Short History” by Heinz Halm
- “Shi‘ism: A Religion of Protest” by Hamid Dabashi
- “Between Revolution and State: The Path to Fatima Mernissi’s ‘New Islamic Womanhood’” by Amira K. Bennison
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
May the quest for knowledge and understanding guide your steps, and may your heart find the bridge of unity among diverse beliefs.
Author: Musa Al-Hakim, October 15, 2023
