Ithna Asharis
Definition and Overview
The Ithna Asharis, also known as the Twelvers, are the largest subdivision within Shia Islam. They are characterized by their recognition of twelve specific imams, each considered a spiritual and temporal successor to the Prophet Muhammad. The Twelvers emphasize the necessity of an imam for the establishment of an ideal Muslim community.
Etymology and Terms in Other Languages
Etymology: The term “Ithna Ashari” (Arabic: اثنا عشري) translates to “Twelver” and stems from the Arabic words “ithnā” meaning “twelve” and “ashar” meaning “ten”. This directly refers to their belief in the twelve imams. The designation “Imamis” refers to their crucial doctrine concerning the role and necessity of imams in leadership.
- Arabic: اثنا عشری (Ithnā ʿAshar)
- Turkish: Oniki İmamcılar
Key Beliefs and Practices
Belief in the Twelve Imams: The Twelvers recognize the spiritual and authoritative leadership of twelve imams:
- Ali ibn Abi Talib
- Hasan ibn Ali
- Husayn ibn Ali
- Ali Zayn al-Abidin
- Muhammad al-Baqir
- Jafar al-Sadiq
- Musa al-Kadhim
- Ali al-Ridha
- Muhammad al-Taqi
- Ali al-Hadi
- Hasan al-Askari
- Muhammad al-Mahdi
Doctrine of Occultation: They hold the belief in the “Occultation” (Ghayba) of the twelfth imam, Muhammad al-Mahdi, who they believe is in supernatural concealment and will reappear as the Mahdi to bring justice and peace.
Role of the Imam: Twelvers adhere to the doctrine that an imam is essential for preserving the divine guidance and interpreting the religious texts accurately.
Intersection with Broader Shia Islam
The Ithna Ashari school is the dominant group within Shia Islam and differs from other Shia sects such as the Ismailis and Zaidis primarily in their choice and number of imams.
Books for Further Study
For a deeper understanding of Ithna Ashari beliefs, history, and contributions:
- “Shi’ite Islam” by Muhammad Husayn Tabatabai
- “A History of Shi’i Islam” by Moojan Momen
- “The Shi’ites” by Heinz Halm
- “The Twelver Shia in Modern Times” edited by Rainer Brunner and Werner Ende
Takeaways
The Ithna Asharis, reflecting the largest body within Shia Islam, underscore the importance of the twelve imams in providing guidance for an ideal Muslim community. Their core beliefs involve the spiritual and temporal authority of these imams and the anticipation of the return of the Mahdi as a redeemer figure.
Conclusion
The Ithna Asharis play a significant role in Islamic theology and the historical and contemporary dynamic of Shia Islam. Their unique emphasis on the doctrine of the twelve imams differentiates them from other Islamic sects and adds rich diversity to the broader tapestry of Islamic beliefs and practices.
Sources:
- Muhammad Husayn Tabatabai, “Shi’ite Islam”
- Moojan Momen, “An Introduction to Shi’i Islam”
- Heinz Halm, “The Shi’ites”
- Rainer Brunner & Werner Ende, “The Twelver Shi’a in Modern Times”
