Ithnaashariyya

Ithnaashariyya, also known as Twelver Shia Islam, is the largest branch of Shia Islam. The term "Ithnaashariyya" literally translates to "twelvers" in Arabic, referring to their belief in twelve divinely ordained Imams who succeeded the Prophet Muhammad. These Imams are considered to be infallible spiritual and political successors, appointed by God.

The lineage of the twelve Imams begins with Ali ibn Abi Talib, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, and continues through his descendants. The twelfth Imam, Muhammad al-Mahdi, is believed to be in occultation and will return at the end of time to establish justice and peace. Ithnaashariyya theology emphasizes the importance of the Imams' teachings and their role as intercessors. They also believe in the concept of "taqiyya," or religious dissimulation, which allows adherents to conceal their faith in situations of persecution. Major theological concepts include Tawhid (oneness of God), Adl (justice), Nubuwwah (prophethood), Imamat (Imamate), and Qiyamah (resurrection). Prominent Ithnaashari communities are found in Iran, Iraq, Azerbaijan, Lebanon, and Pakistan.