Zaideet

Zaideet refers to a branch of Shia Islam that follows the teachings of Zayd ibn Ali, a grandson of Husayn ibn Ali. Zayd lived in the early 8th century CE and is considered a significant figure in Islamic history. The Zaidi school of thought is characterized by its emphasis on the principle of *imamah*, the leadership of the Muslim community, which they believe should be held by a descendant of Ali and Fatimah. However, unlike other Shia branches, Zaidis do not adhere to the concept of *nass*, the specific designation of an Imam by his predecessor. Instead, they believe any qualified descendant of Ali can claim the Imamate through an open revolt against an unjust ruler.

Zaidi jurisprudence shares many similarities with Sunni jurisprudence, particularly the Hanafi school. They accept hadith narrated by both Sunni and Shia sources and place a strong emphasis on reason and scholarly consensus. Historically, Zaidi communities have been concentrated in Yemen, where they established dynasties that ruled for centuries. While Zaidism is a minority branch of Islam, its followers maintain distinct theological and legal traditions. Their emphasis on active resistance to injustice and their unique approach to leadership have shaped their historical and contemporary identity within the broader Islamic world.