Who are ismaili muslims

Ismaili Muslims are a branch of Shia Islam that follows the teachings of the Aga Khan, who is considered the spiritual leader of the community. Ismailis are a minority group within Shia Islam, and they are found in many parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Ismailis believe in the imamate, which is the concept of a divinely guided leader who interprets the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. They believe that the imam is the spiritual and temporal leader of the community, and that he has the authority to make decisions on behalf of the community.

The Ismaili community is divided into several sub-groups, each with its own distinct traditions and practices. Some of the main sub-groups include:

• Nizari Ismailis: This is the largest and most well-known sub-group of Ismailis. They are found primarily in Pakistan, India, and East Africa.
• Mustaali Ismailis: This sub-group is found primarily in India and East Africa.
• Tayyibi Ismailis: This sub-group is found primarily in India and the Middle East.

Ismailis have a unique set of beliefs and practices that distinguish them from other branches of Shia Islam. Some of the key beliefs and practices of Ismailis include:

• The importance of the imamate: Ismailis believe that the imam is the spiritual and temporal leader of the community, and that he has the authority to make decisions on behalf of the community.
• The concept of the "hidden imam": Ismailis believe that the imam is in hiding, and that he will return at the end of time to bring about a period of peace and justice.
• The use of the " ginans": Ismailis use a set of devotional texts called the "ginans" which are written in a variety of languages, including Gujarati, Urdu, and Persian.
• The importance of the "jamatkhana": Ismailis have a unique form of worship called the "jamatkhana", which is a gathering of the community for prayer and meditation.

Ismailis have a rich cultural and intellectual heritage, and they have made significant contributions to the fields of literature, art, and architecture. They have also been involved in a variety of social and economic activities, including education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.

Some of the notable Ismaili leaders include:

• Aga Khan IV: He is the current spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, and he has been involved in a variety of philanthropic and development activities.
• Aga Khan III: He was the previous spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, and he was known for his efforts to promote education and social justice.
• Aga Khan II: He was the previous spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, and he was known for his efforts to promote the arts and culture.

Overall, Ismailis are a diverse and vibrant community that has a rich history and culture. They are known for their strong sense of community and their commitment to their faith and values.