Ismailis

Ismailis

Etymology and Translations

• Arabic: الإسماعيليون (al-Ismā‘īliyyūn)
• Turkish: İsmaililer

Overview

The Ismailis represent a significant Shii Muslim community, naming themselves after Ismail, the eldest son of Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (d. 765). With a history stretching back to the mid-eighth century, the Ismailis reside across multiple countries, including but not limited to regions in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and North America. Key representations include the Nizaris under the Aga Khan and the Daudis of the Mustali-Tayyibi branch, known widely as Khojas and Bohras, respectively.

Historical Context

Foundation and Early History

The Ismaili community originated amid early controversies over the succession to Imam Jafar al-Sadiq. Choosing Ismail and his lineage, they diverged from other Shii factions like the Twelver Shia. Throughout their early period, Ismailis faced multiple schisms, leading to significant internal divisions.

Fatimid Era

The historical zenith of the Ismailis arrived during the Fatimid Caliphate (909–1171 CE). Centered in Egypt, the Fatimids, under Ismaili imams acting as caliphs, made considerable advancements in science, architecture, and the arts. The emphasis on the distinction between the exoteric (zahir) and esoteric (batin) meanings within their theological framework afforded the Ismailis a unique intellectual and cultural heritage.

Branches and Subdivisions

Nizaris

Today, the largest Ismaili community is the Nizari sect, led by the Aga Khan. They emphasize a modernist interpretation of Islam, with strong educational and social service-oriented initiatives globally. Nizaris maintain a significant presence, notably in South Asia, East Africa, and parts of Europe and North America.

Mustali-Tayyibi (Daudis)

The Mustali-Tayyibi branch, particularly prominent among the Daudis or Bohras, acknowledges a line of dais (missionary leaders) in lieu of a present imam. They predominantly reside in India, Pakistan, and Yemen, maintaining strict community structures and intricate rituals manifesting their unique religious identity.

Contributions to Islamic Civilization

The Ismailis have made significant contributions, especially visible in:

1. Philosophy and Theology: Works rooted in Neoplatonism and other philosophical systems.
2. Architecture and Art: Celebrated during the Fatimid era, showcasing elaborate developments in Islamic architecture and illuminated manuscripts.
3. Preservation and Transmission of Knowledge: Establishing institutions like the al-Azhar University in Cairo.

Further Reading

1. Farhad Daftary - The Ismailis: Their History and Doctrines.
2. Azim Nanji - The Ismaili Muslims: A History.
3. Shafique N. Virani - The Ismailis in the Middle Ages: A History of Survival, A Search for Salvation.

Takeaways and Conclusion

The Ismaili community stands out in Islamic history for their rich intellectual heritage, distinct theological framework emphasizing esotericism, and substantial historical achievements during the Fatimid period. Their adaptive and modernist expressions of Islamic identity manifest through the Nizari initiatives under the Aga Khan and the conserved traditions among Mustali Bohras.

The study of Ismailis offers essential insights into the broader spectrum of Shii Islam and its intricate interfacing with the temporal and spiritual realms of Islamic civilization.