Imamat Lesson 1

Imamat Lesson 1

General Meaning 

• Meaning of Imamah and Khilafah in shia and sunni sources 

• The concept of Imamat amongst shias and ahle tasannuh 

• Summary of Differences 

• System of Islamic Leadership 

Open Ended

Summarize or explain the meaning of Imamat and Khilafat from what you know and and have learned so far

Imamat and Khilafat - Literal and Conceptual

• Concepts - Al Imamat and Al Imam / Al Khilafat and Al khalifa / Al Wisaya and Al Wasiyy 

• Literal meaning - To lead and the Leader / To succeed and successor / The executorship of the will and The executor of Will 

• Islamic terminology - Universal authority in all religious and worldly affairs in succession to the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) AND the man who, in succession to the Holy Prophet / Same as Imamat and Imam (s.a.w.a.) has the right to the absolute command of the Muslims in all religious and wordly affairs. 

Status of Imamate amongst Shias 

1. Imam Ali (a.s.) says in Nahjul Balagah, Sermon No.94 

“He is the Leader (Imam) of All who exercise fear of Allah and is light for those who seek guidance. He is Lamp whose flame is burning, a meteor whose light is shining and flint whose spark is bright. His Conduct is Upright, his behavior is guiding, his speech is decisive and his decision is just. 

2. Imam Reza (a.s.) says in Usool-e-Kafi, Vol.1, Pg.200 

“Imamat is rein of religion, management of Muslim, Goodness of World and respect of Momeneens. 

More Traditions

Imam al-Baqir (a.s.) said, ‘Allah, Blessed and most High said, ‘I will certainly punish every Muslim community who accepted the leadership of a tyrant leader who is not chosen by Allah.’ 

The Prophet )s.a.w.a.( said, ’Your Imams are your leaders before Allah, therefore be careful whom you follow in your religion and your prayers.’

Open Ended

What should be our responsibility towards our Imam (as) - State atleast 2 points each brother :