Imamieh

Imamieh, also spelled Imamiyyah, refers primarily to the Twelver (Ithna'ashari) branch of Shia Islam, which is the largest Shia denomination. The term derives from the belief in a succession of divinely appointed Imams from the family of the Prophet Muhammad, specifically through his daughter Fatima and her husband Ali ibn Abi Talib. These Imams are considered to be the spiritual and political leaders of the Muslim community, possessing divine knowledge and infallible guidance.

Central to Imamieh belief is the conviction that there were twelve such Imams, beginning with Ali and ending with Muhammad al-Mahdi, who is believed to have gone into occultation (ghaybah) and will reappear at the end of time to establish justice and righteousness on earth. This belief in the twelve Imams distinguishes the Imamieh from other Shia branches, such as the Zaidis and the Ismailis, who recognize different lines of Imams.

Key tenets of Imamieh Islam include:

• Tawhid (Oneness of God): The absolute unity and uniqueness of God.
• Adl (Divine Justice): Belief in God's perfect justice and fairness.
• Nubuwwah (Prophethood): Belief in the prophets of God, particularly Muhammad as the final prophet.
• Imamat (Leadership): Belief in the twelve divinely appointed Imams as successors to the Prophet.
• Ma'ad (Resurrection): Belief in the Day of Judgment, resurrection, and accountability for one's actions.

The Imamieh school of thought has developed a distinct jurisprudence (fiqh) based on the Quran, the Sunnah (practices) of the Prophet and the Imams, reason (aql), and consensus (ijma). Prominent scholars throughout history have contributed to the development of Imamieh jurisprudence, philosophy, and theology.

The term "Imamieh" can also be used more broadly to refer to any group or individual who believes in the necessity of an Imam, although it is most commonly associated with Twelver Shia Islam. The Imamieh school has had a significant influence on the political and social landscape of various regions, particularly in Iran (where it is the state religion), Iraq, Lebanon, and Azerbaijan.