Ismaili shia believe

Ismaili Shia Muslims are a branch of Shia Islam that follows the teachings of the Aga Khan, who is considered the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community. Here are some key beliefs and practices of Ismaili Shia Muslims:

Beliefs:

  1. Oneness of God: Ismaili Shia Muslims believe in the oneness of God (Tawhid) and reject the concept of trinity.
  2. Prophethood: They believe in the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him) and consider him the final prophet sent by God.
  3. Imamate: Ismaili Shia Muslims believe in the institution of Imamate, which is the leadership of the Muslim community after the death of the Prophet Muhammad. They believe that the Imams are divinely appointed and infallible.
  4. Seven Imams: Ismaili Shia Muslims recognize seven Imams, starting from Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, to the current Aga Khan IV.
  5. Hidden Imam: Ismaili Shia Muslims believe that the seventh Imam, Muhammad al-Mustafa, is in occultation (ghaybah) and will return at the end of time to establish justice and peace.

Practices:

  1. Five Pillars of Islam: Ismaili Shia Muslims follow the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the foundation of Islamic practice: Shahada (profession of faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage).
  2. Friday Prayer: Ismaili Shia Muslims attend the Friday prayer (Jumu'ah) at the local jamatkhana (place of worship).
  3. Laylat al-Mi'raj: Ismaili Shia Muslims celebrate Laylat al-Mi'raj, which commemorates the Prophet Muhammad's night journey to Jerusalem and his ascension to heaven.
  4. Mawlid: Ismaili Shia Muslims celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (Mawlid al-Nabi) with prayers, recitation of the Quran, and other festivities.
  5. Khutbah: Ismaili Shia Muslims listen to a weekly khutbah (sermon) delivered by the Imam or a designated speaker, which provides guidance and spiritual advice.

Unique Practices:

  1. Jamatkhana: Ismaili Shia Muslims gather at the jamatkhana for prayers, lectures, and other activities.
  2. No Rites or Rituals: Ismaili Shia Muslims do not perform any rites or rituals, such as visiting shrines or performing Hajj, as they believe that these practices are not mentioned in the Quran or the Hadith.
  3. No Intercession: Ismaili Shia Muslims do not believe in intercession (tawassul) or seeking the help of saints or Imams, as they believe that only God can help and guide.

Overall, Ismaili Shia Muslims follow a unique blend of Shia and Sufi traditions, with a strong emphasis on spiritual guidance, community service, and social welfare.