Zaydism

Zaydism is a branch of Shia Islam that emerged in the 8th century, primarily based on the teachings of Zayd ibn Ali, the grandson of Husayn ibn Ali (the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad). Zaydism is considered the closest major branch of Shia Islam to Sunni Islam.

Core Beliefs and Doctrines:

• Leadership (Imamate): Zaydis believe that the Imamate (leadership of the Muslim community) should be held by a descendant of Ali ibn Abi Talib (the fourth Caliph in Sunni Islam and the first Imam in Shia Islam) who is knowledgeable, pious, brave, and actively strives to establish justice. Unlike other Shia branches, Zaydism does not believe in the necessity of the Imam being designated through nass (divine designation). Rather, the most qualified descendant of Ali can become Imam, provided he openly claims the Imamate and leads a revolt against unjust rulers.
• Rejection of Quietism: A defining characteristic of Zaydism is its emphasis on actively fighting against injustice. Zayd ibn Ali's revolt against the Umayyad Caliphate is a central event in Zaydi history, and armed struggle against oppression has been a recurring theme in Zaydi history.
• Status of the First Two Caliphs: Zaydis generally hold a neutral or positive view of Abu Bakr and Umar, the first two Sunni Caliphs. Unlike other Shia branches, they do not denounce them as usurpers of Ali's rightful position. Some Zaydi scholars have even considered them legitimate leaders, although Ali is still considered the superior figure.
• Five Pillars of Islam: Zaydis generally accept the five pillars of Islam (Shahada, Salat, Zakat, Sawm, Hajj) as understood within mainstream Islam.
• Doctrine of the Intermediate Position: Zaydis historically upheld a doctrine called "the intermediate position" (al-manzilah bayna al-manzilatayn) concerning the status of grave sinners. This position, also held by the Mu'tazila school of Islamic theology, asserts that grave sinners are neither fully believers nor fully unbelievers, but occupy an intermediate status.

Historical Development and Geographical Distribution:

Zaydism initially gained a foothold in Kufa (present-day Iraq) before spreading to other regions. Over time, Zaydism established itself most strongly in Yemen, where Zaydi Imams ruled for centuries. The Alawi branch of Shia Islam, found primarily in Syria and Lebanon, shares some similarities with Zaydism.

Key Differences from Other Shia Branches:

• Line of Imams: Zaydism recognizes a different line of Imams than Twelver Shia Islam (the largest branch of Shia Islam). While the first four Imams are the same in both traditions, Zaydism does not accept the subsequent Imams recognized by Twelvers.
• Doctrine of Nass: Zaydism rejects the doctrine of nass, which holds that each Imam must be divinely designated by his predecessor.
• Political Activism: Zaydism places a greater emphasis on political activism and armed struggle against injustice than some other Shia branches.
• Relationship with Sunnism: Zaydism is considered closer to Sunni Islam in its legal and theological views than other Shia branches.

Modern Zaydism:

Zaydism continues to be practiced in Yemen, although it has faced challenges in recent years due to political instability and conflict. Zaydi scholars and intellectuals continue to study and interpret Zaydi doctrines and traditions.