Imamah: the Twelve Imams.

The belief in Imamah is what most clearly defines the path of the Ahlulbayt. Today you'll learn why Shia Muslims believe the Prophet (s) appointed leaders after him, who the Twelve Imams are, and the event of Ghadir.

What is Imamah?

Shia Muslims believe that after the Prophet (s), Allah appointed Imams, divinely guided leaders from the Prophet's family, to protect and explain the religion and guide the community. Like the prophets, the Imams are believed to be ma'sum (protected from sin and error). They are not prophets, and they bring no new religion; they guard and explain the message of the Prophet (s).

Two key events

Hadith al-Thaqalayn

The Prophet (s) said, in a narration reported in both Shia and Sunni sources: "I am leaving among you two weighty things: the Book of Allah and my family (Ahlulbayt). As long as you hold on to them, you will never go astray."

Ghadir Khumm

On the way back from his final Hajj, at a place called Ghadir Khumm (18 Dhul Hijjah, 10 AH), the Prophet (s) gathered the pilgrims, raised Imam Ali's (a) hand and said: "For whoever I am his master (mawla), Ali is his master." Shia Muslims understand this as the public appointment of Imam Ali (a) as leader after the Prophet (s). You can read more on our Ghadir page.

The Twelve Imams

The Panjetan (the Five Pure Ones) are the Prophet (s), Imam Ali (a), Sayyida Fatima al-Zahra (a), Imam Hasan (a) and Imam Husayn (a). Sayyida Fatima (a), the Prophet's daughter, holds an exalted position as the leader of the women of the worlds.

The Imam of our time

Shia Muslims believe the twelfth Imam, Imam al-Mahdi (a), is alive but hidden from view by Allah's will (the Ghaybah, occultation), and will reappear to fill the earth with justice. During the occultation, believers turn to qualified scholars for guidance in religious matters. See our Imam-e-Zamana Companion page for daily practices connected to him.