Immamats Flashcards
What is one of the key differences between Shia and Sunni Muslims?
The question of the Immamate.
Why are Imams are important and beliefs about Imam Shia.
He is chosen by Allah. Immune from error as given the task by Allah. Perfect knowledge of Islam as inspired by Allah. They did not commit any sin so are perfect examples to follow.
What are the roles of Imams?
Give a true interpretation of Qur’an and accepted Hadiths. Lead Friday Prayers (Sunni). Announce and lead military wars (Jihads). Impose Shari’ah law, judge and sentencing. Receive taxes.
How does belief in Imamate influences Muslims today?
It caused a major split in Islam - Sunni Muslims reject the idea that Muhammad chose Ali to be his successor and the idea that Imams are chosen by God and infallible. They believe you can be a Muslim without this core belief.
Different Roles of Imam - for Sunni he is a leader of prayers, for Shia they are men appointed by God to give moral and spiritual leadership to the world. They regard the first 12 Caliphs as the 12 Imams, modern day are clerics to give this leadership.
What is a teaching about Immamate?
The Hadith al-Thaqalayn says that Muhammad left 2 weighty (substantial) things to guide them and stop them going astray - The Qur’an and Ali. “You who believe, obey God and the Messenger, and those in Authority amount you.” Those in authority are believed to mean the Imams giving them the right to interpret the Qur’an on behalf of Allah.
