Prophecy (Shia Islam)
In Shia Islam, Nubuwwah (Prophecy) is one of the five core principles of Usul al-Din (Principles of Religion). It refers to the belief that God (Allah) has chosen prophets to guide humanity and convey His divine message. These prophets serve as intermediaries between God and humanity, providing guidance on how to live according to God's will.
The role of the prophet in Shia Islam is crucial. Prophets are not merely messengers but also exemplars of moral conduct and righteous living. They are divinely appointed leaders whose actions and teachings serve as a model for believers to emulate. Obedience to the prophets is considered obedience to God.
Shia Islam recognizes all the prophets mentioned in the Quran, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, as true prophets of God. However, it emphasizes the finality and superiority of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the last and greatest prophet. The Quran, revealed to Prophet Muhammad, is considered the final and complete divine scripture.
A distinguishing aspect of the Shia doctrine of prophecy is the belief in the immaculate nature (Ismah) of the prophets. Shia Muslims believe that all prophets are free from sin and error, ensuring the purity and reliability of the divine message they convey. This Ismah extends to both major and minor sins, whether intentional or unintentional. This infallibility is seen as a necessary condition for the trust and reliance that followers must place in the prophets' guidance.
Following Prophet Muhammad's death, Shia Islam emphasizes the importance of his designated successors, the Imams, who are believed to be divinely appointed leaders from his lineage. While Imams are not prophets, they are considered the spiritual and political heirs of Prophet Muhammad, responsible for interpreting and preserving the true teachings of Islam. The belief in the twelve Imams is a central tenet of Shia Islam. They possess a certain divinely-granted knowledge and guidance which helps them to safeguard the religion and lead the community.