A true Shia is someone who adheres to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and follows the religious guidance of his family, known as the Ahl al-Bayt, and their descendants, the Shia Imams.
Understanding the Core Beliefs
The term "Shia," short for "Shiat Ali" (partisans of Ali), signifies allegiance to Ali ibn Abi Talib, the Prophet Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law. However, the essence of being a true Shia extends far beyond simply supporting Ali. It encompasses a deep commitment to the following principles:
- Tawhid (Oneness of God): Belief in the absolute oneness of God, without any partners or equals. This is fundamental to Islam and shared by both Shia and Sunni Muslims.
- Nubuwwat (Prophethood): Belief in all the prophets of God, with Muhammad as the last and final prophet.
- Ma'ad (Resurrection): Belief in the Day of Judgment, where individuals will be held accountable for their actions in this life.
- Imamat (Leadership): This is a distinguishing belief of Shia Islam. Shias believe that after the Prophet Muhammad, divinely appointed leaders known as Imams should guide the Muslim community. These Imams are considered to be infallible and the rightful interpreters of Islamic teachings.
- Adl (Divine Justice): Belief in the justice of God, meaning He is fair in His judgments and does not oppress anyone.
The Ahl al-Bayt and the Shia Imams
The Ahl al-Bayt, or "People of the House," hold a central position in Shia Islam. They consist of Prophet Muhammad, his daughter Fatima Zahra, his cousin and son-in-law Ali ibn Abi Talib, and their two sons, Hassan and Hussein. Shias believe these individuals were specially chosen by God and possess exceptional spiritual status.
Following the death of the Prophet Muhammad, Shias believe that Ali ibn Abi Talib was the rightful successor and the first Imam. They then recognize a lineage of eleven more Imams from Ali's descendants through Fatima Zahra, each succeeding the previous one. These Imams are:
- Ali ibn Abi Talib
- Hassan ibn Ali
- Hussein ibn Ali
- Ali ibn Hussein (Zayn al-Abidin)
- Muhammad ibn Ali (al-Baqir)
- Ja'far ibn Muhammad (as-Sadiq)
- Musa ibn Ja'far (al-Kazim)
- Ali ibn Musa (ar-Reza)
- Muhammad ibn Ali (at-Taqi)
- Ali ibn Muhammad (an-Naqi)
- Hassan ibn Ali (al-Askari)
- Muhammad ibn Hassan (al-Mahdi) - Believed to be in occultation and will reappear at the end of times to establish justice.
Practical Application
Being a true Shia involves not only believing in these principles but also implementing them in daily life. This includes:
- Following the teachings and example of the Prophet Muhammad and the Imams.
- Adhering to the Shia Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh).
- Showing love and respect for the Ahl al-Bayt.
- Commemorating the events of Karbala, particularly the martyrdom of Imam Hussein.
- Striving for justice and fighting against oppression.
In essence, a true Shia seeks to embody the values and principles taught by the Prophet Muhammad and his family, striving to live a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to humanity.
