ShiaBeliefs Clarified
©2024 ABUHASSAN
Publisher: BoD· Books on Demand, Stockholm, Sweden
Print: LibriPlureos GmbH,Hamburg, Germany
ISBN:978-91-8080-777-7
[Musa(Moses)]said: "O my Lord!Openfor me my chest(grant me self-confidence, contentment, and boldness).
"And ease my task forme;
"And make loosethe knot (the defect)frommy tongue,(i.e. remove theincorrectness from my speech)
"That they understand my speech"
[Quran Surah Taha 20:25 -28]
AllpraisebetoAllah,the Oneand Only,who doesnot have apartner;the Peerless, theNeedless, whohas no like; the First,the Ever-Existent, whohas no limit; theLastand the Everlastingwho hasnoend;the Existing, theConstant, who hasnonon-existence; theEternal King,who doesnot decline; thePower whoisnot weakened; theAll-Knowing from whom nothingcan be hidden; theAlivebut notwith life; theOne whoExists, butwho is notconfinedtoplace; theAll-Hearingand theAll-Seeing,who hasnoearsand eyes; theOne whoordered with justice, punished with favor, andcommanded with bounty, butnot to trap peopleunder HisCommand.There is no rejecter to HisJudgment, no challenger to HisDecision,and no subduer to HisWill. And HisCommand,whenHeintendedanything, is only that He saith untoit“Be,” andthenitis.
Therefore, hallowed be He in whoseHandisthe kingdom of allthings, anduntoHis is thereturnand finalarrival. AndI bear witnessthatthere is no god butAllah. TheMasterof theUniverse,and Ibearwitness that Muhammad () is HisServant andHis Messenger, theMasterofthe Prophets (ofAllah) andthe Best of allHis Creation. AndI bear witnessthat`Aliibn AbuTalib (AS),isthe Master of the Appointed Guardians, andCommander of thePious and Leaderofthe PeoplewithRadiantForeheads.And Ibear witnessthatthe Imams(AS)fromhis Progeny afterhim are theProofsofAllahtothe DayofJudgement;may the blessingsand salutations of Allahbeupon them all.
ShiaBeliefs Clarified
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5. TheConceptofBada' in RelationtoDivineDecree76
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7. Absolute andNamed Decrees in theQuran 78 Cana prophetdeclare with certainty when thereis"badā"85
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therulingona maidservant?
Ali’s(AS)sacrifice forthe Prophet’sPBUHlife184
of Imam Ali(AS)184
ShiaBeliefs Clarified
"Shia"—aword that evokes concern for some and raises doubts for others. In Volume 1ofthis series, we embarked on ajourney to dispel many of the prevalent misconceptions about Shia beliefs, practices, and history. We delved into the origins of Shia Islam, explored its fundamental tenets, and addressed arange of misunderstandings that have clouded the perception of Shia Muslims. Volume 1was only adrop in the sea that is Shia Islam which requires further exploration and clarification.
In our first volume, we covered essential aspects of Shia Islam, aiming to provide afundamental understanding for readers. We discussed the historical origins of Shia Islam, tracing its roots back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad () and examining key events that shaped its development. We clarified core beliefs and practices, emphasizing the spiritual and theological principles that distinguish Shia Islam from other Islamic sects. Additionally,wetackled major misconceptions, offering evidence-based explanations to counter widespread myths and misinformation.
The feedback from readers has been both encouraging and enlightening. Many expressed gratitude for the clarity and depth of the information provided, while others shared their newfound understanding and respect for Shia Islam. This positive response has reinforced the importance of our mission and inspired the creation of this second volume.
While Volume 1laid the groundwork, Volume 2aims to delve even deeper into the rich and intricate tapestry of Shia Islam. The purpose of this second volume is to address more complex and nuanced questions that continue to persist. We seek to provide comprehensive, evidence-based insights into the myriad facets of Shia beliefs and practices, ensuring awell-rounded understanding for our readers.
Our goals for Volume 2are threefold:
1. We aim to explore the intricate theological and historical dimensions of Shia Islam, providing readers a more profound comprehension of its doctrines and traditions.
2. As contemporary geopolitical events and media portrayals evolve, new misconceptions about Shia Islam
have emerged. This volume will tackle these issues head-on, offering clear and accurate explanations.
3. By bridging the gap between different sects of Islam, we hope to promote aspirit of unity and mutual respect among all Muslims. An informed understanding is crucial for overcoming divisions and fostering a cohesive Ummah.
My motivation for continuing this work is deeply personal. As aShia Muslim who has navigated through numerous questions and doubts, Iunderstand the importance of informed understanding and meaningful dialogue. Throughout my journey,I have encountered both curiosity and skepticism from friends and acquaintances belonging to various sects of Islam. Their questions and my own quest for knowledge have driven me to delve deeper into the intricacies of Shia Islam.
It is my firm belief that understanding and dialogue are the keys to overcoming misconceptions and fostering a spirit of unity.Byproviding accurate and comprehensive information, we can bridge the gaps that divide us and promote amore inclusive and respectful understanding of our faith.
() This volume will cover abroad range of topics, each designed to provide adeeper insight into Shia Islam and address specific misconceptions. We will begin with a detailed exploration of the historical context and evolution of Shia Islam, tracing its development from the early days of Islam to the present. We will then delve into the core beliefs and practices that define Shia spirituality,examining key theological principles and ritual practices.
Asignificant focus will be placed on the role of the Imams in Shia Islam. We will explore the concept of Imamate, the biographies of the Twelve Imams, and their contributions to Islamic thought and jurisprudence. The significance of Ashura and the martyrdom of Imam Hussain ( ﮫﯿﻠﻋ مﻼﺴﻟا )will also be examined in depth, highlighting the profound impact of these events on Shia identity and practice.
Further,wewill study Shia jurisprudence and legal thought, comparing it with Sunni jurisprudence and exploring contemporary issues faced by Shia scholars. We will also highlight the contributions of prominent figures in Shia history,their roles in shaping the faith, and their lasting impact on the broader Islamic narrative.
Modern geopolitical contexts have introduced new challenges and misconceptions about Shia Islam. This volume will address these contemporary issues, analyzing how current events intersect with religious identity and how historical narratives are sometimes manipulated to serve particular agendas. We will also explore the diverse practices and traditions of contemporary Shia communities around the world, shedding light on their unique cultural expressions and the challenges they face today.
Finally,wewill address recent misconceptions about Shia Islam, providing clear and accurate explanations to counter these misunderstandings. Our aim is to promote amore nuanced and informed understanding of Shia beliefs, helping to dispel myths and foster aspirit of unity within the Muslim Ummah.
As we embark on this continuation of our journey,I invite you to approach this volume with an open mind and heart. Together,wewill delve deeper into the profound knowledge and heritage of Muhammad () and his blessed household (AS), seeking truth and enlightenment. This endeavor is not just about addressing doubts and misconceptions; it is about building afoundation of knowledge that transcends