📜 The KĀMILĪYAH (كاملية): Understanding a Unique Shīʿah Sect
Comprehensive Definition
The KĀMILĪYAH (كاملية) refers to a sect within Shīʿah Islam attributed to Abū ʾl-Kāmil. This group is noted for its distinct theological stance that deems the Companions of the Prophet Muhammad as infidels, arguing they betrayed the familial rights of the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law, ʿAlī. Furthermore, they controversially viewed ʿAlī himself as an infidel for not asserting his rights immediately upon the death of the Prophet.
Etymology
- Arabic: کاملية (Kāmilīyah)
- Root Word: From Abū ʾl-Kāmil, indicating the founder.
- Translation: The term directly relates to the followers and ideologies established by Abū ʾl-Kāmil.
Background
KĀMILĪYAH emerged during the formative times of Islamic history, participating in the broader discourse of leadership legitimacy after the Prophet Muhammad’s death. The group diverged from mainstream Shīʿah beliefs by their extreme critiques of both the Prophet’s Companions and ʿAlī ibn Abi Ṭālib himself.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
While mainstream Shīʿah communities revere both the household of the Prophet (ʿAlī’s family) and deeply respect the Companions, KĀMILĪYAH segregates itself through harsh criticism of the Companions and even affected members of the Shīʿah family under unique criteria. This ideological rigor sets it apart from general Shīʿah views, yet shares its origins and part of its narrative framework.
Synonyms
- None: KĀMILĪYAH remains a specifically named sect without common synonyms.
Antonyms
- Mainstream Shīʿah: Groups or ideologies within Shīʿah Islam that accept the legitimacy of ʿAlī without denouncing the Companions.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Shīʿah Islam: The branch of Islam believing in ʿAlī’s divine appointment as the Prophet Muhammad’s successor.
- Kaliphate (خلافة): The Islamic state under the leadership of an Islamic steward known as a caliph.
- Companions of the Prophet (الصحابة): Close followers of the Prophet Muhammad who were foundational to early Islamic society.
Exciting Facts
- Radical Viewpoint: KĀMILĪYAH’s assertion that all Prophet’s Companions were infidels placed it at a contentious edge of theological debate within Islamic history.
- Rare Ideological Stance: As a group, they are known historically more so for their exceptional stance rather than a lasting large following.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The stark approach of the KĀMILĪYAH reflects the passionate discourse and upheaval in early Islamic political and theological landscapes.” —[Parvez Saeed, Early Islamic Sects]
References
- [Kitābuʾ t-Taʿrīfāt, in loco.]
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
- Islamic Sects and Divisions: The Sectarian Milieu in Early Islam by John J. Donohue
- The Origins and Early Development of Shīʿah Islam by S.H.M. Jafri
- Schism and Stability in Islam: The Problem of Islamic Sectarianism by Fazlur Rahman
Quizzes
Farewell Thought:
“As we explore diverse theological landscapes, it’s essential we appreciate the multi-faceted dimensions of belief systems. Each sect, including KĀMILĪYAH, offers a unique lens to view the broader tapestry of the human pursuit for spiritual truth.”
— Yahya Malik, 2023
