Ismailiten wikipedia
Ismaili is a branch of Shia Islam that emerged in the 7th century. Here's a summary of the Ismaili faith based on Wikipedia:
History
The Ismaili branch of Shia Islam originated from the Fatimid Caliphate, which was founded by Ismail ibn Jafar al-Sadiq, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. Ismail ibn Jafar was considered the seventh Imam by the Ismailis, while the majority of Shia Muslims recognized his brother Musa al-Kadhim as the seventh Imam.
Beliefs
Ismailis believe in the following:
- Imamate: They believe in the concept of Imamate, which is the leadership of the community by a divinely appointed Imam. They recognize a series of Imams, starting from Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Seven Imams: Ismailis recognize seven Imams, starting from Ali ibn Abi Talib and ending with Muhammad ibn Ismail, who is believed to have disappeared (ghaybah) and will return as the Mahdi.
- Fatimid Caliphate: Ismailis believe that the Fatimid Caliphate, which was founded by Ismail ibn Jafar, was a legitimate Islamic state that was guided by the Imams.
- Tawhid: Ismailis believe in the unity of God (Tawhid) and reject the concept of intermediaries between God and humanity.
- Quran and Hadith: Ismailis believe in the authority of the Quran and Hadith (the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad) as the primary sources of Islamic law and guidance.
Practices
Ismailis have a unique set of practices, including:
- Dhikr: Ismailis perform a daily ritual of Dhikr, which involves reciting prayers and verses from the Quran.
- Mawlid: Ismailis celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (Mawlid) with great enthusiasm.
- Ashura: Ismailis commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, on the day of Ashura.
- Khutbah: Ismaili Imams deliver sermons (Khutbah) on Fridays, which are considered a day of rest and worship.
Subgroups
There are several subgroups within the Ismaili community, including:
- Nizari Ismailis: This is the largest subgroup, led by the Aga Khan IV, who is the 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismailis.
- Mustaali Ismailis: This subgroup is led by the Da'i al-Mutlaq, who is the spiritual leader of the Mustaali Ismailis.
- Tayyibi Ismailis: This subgroup is led by the Dai al-Fatimi, who is the spiritual leader of the Tayyibi Ismailis.
Conclusion
Ismaili is a significant branch of Shia Islam that has a rich history and unique beliefs and practices. Despite their differences with other Shia and Sunni Muslims, Ismailis have contributed significantly to Islamic thought and culture.