Ismah
Ismah (Arabic: العصمة, al-‘iṣmah; Turkish: Ismet) refers to the Islamic doctrine of inerrancy or infallibility, particularly regarding the prophets and, in Shia Islam, the imams. This theological concept signifies the absolute fidelity of certain individuals to divine commands, their unwavering veracity in conveying God’s revelations, their profound wisdom in understanding divine messages, and their impeccable transmission of those messages.
Etymology
The term Ismah derives from the Arabic root ع-ص-م (‘-ṣ-m), which means to protect or preserve from error or sin. In Islamic context, it encapsulates a form of divine protection that ensures the moral and spiritual purity of specific individuals, primarily prophets in Sunni tradition and both prophets and imams in Shia belief.
Theological Understanding
Sunni Perspective
In Sunni Islam, istrengthmah is applied exclusively to prophets, including figures such as Muhammad, Moses, and Jesus. These individuals are considered divinely safeguarded from sin (ma’asum) and error throughout their mission. They are believed to have perfect control over their actions, which guarantees that their teachings and descriptions of divine revelations are without mistake or omission. This inerrancy is considered essential for maintaining the trustworthiness of sacred scripture and guidance provided by prophets.
Shia Perspective
In Shia doctrine, the concept of ismat extends beyond the prophets to also encompass the twelve imams, starting with Imam Ali and concluding with Imam Mahdi. Shia belief holds that these imams possess unique infallibility in understanding, interpreting, and implementing the Quran and Sunnah (practices of the Prophet). They are seen as guardians of the divine message and provide an unerring source of knowledge and jurisprudence for the Muslim community. This inerrancy is not only a matter of personal moral impeccability but also intellectual and spiritual guidance.
Implications in Islamic Thought
The belief in ismat is pivotal for both Sunni and Shia theology. For Sunni Muslims, acknowledging the inerrancy of prophets ensures the absolute reliability of prophecies and divine commands. For Shia Muslims, extending this infallibility to their imams underlines the critical role these figures play in ensuring the continued well-being and guidance of the community. It distinguishes the authority of the Ahl al-Bayt (the family of the Prophet) in interpreting and preserving Islamic teachings.
Further Reading for Deeper Insight
- “Infallibility of Prophets in Islamic Thought” by Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi
- “Infallibles: Imamate and Wilayat in Shia Theology” by Ayatollah Jaffer Subhani
- “Struggling to Surrender: Some Impressions of an American Convert to Islam” by Jeffrey Lang (provides contextual understanding)
- “Prophecy and Leadership in Sunni Islam” by Abdulaziz Sachedina
Key Takeaways
- ‘Ismah indicates divine protection against error and sin, specifically applied to prophets in Sunni Islam and both prophets and imams in Shia Islam.
- Sunni Islam restricts this infallibility to prophets, ensuring the reliability of divine messages.
- Shia Islam extends this doctrine to include Imams, reinforcing their authority and unique capacity to interpret Islamic text.
- The concept strengthens the theological and spiritual bedrock upon which the reliability of revealed knowledge and jurisprudential rulings stand.
Conclusion
The concept of Ismah, with its roots deeply embedded in Islamic theology, serves as a cornerstone of both Sunni and Shia beliefs, albeit with vital distinctions. It underscores the pivotal role of divine protection and guidance bestowed upon certain figures, thereby assuring Muslims of the purity, fidelity, and correctness of their religious teachings and practices.
