Faculty member of al-Mustafa international university
10.22034/jep.2023.213713
Abstract
"Imamate" is one of the fundamental principles of the Imamiyah faith, and its discussions are divided into general and specific imamate based on the proof of major concepts and the elucidation of minor details. One of the important discussions in general imamate is the requirements of the imam, including the attribute of "knowledge." This attribute holds a special place due to its connection with the infallibility of the imam and its role in distinguishing the true imam from false claimants. The extent of this attribute has been a subject of disagreement among theological sects and even among prominent figures within the Imamiyah faith regarding the necessity of certain levels of knowledge, such as knowledge of languages, crafts, and industries, in imamate. In this paper, using a descriptive-analytical method and employing rational arguments such as divine grace, priority, and wisdom, as well as textual evidence from verses like the Verse of Purification and numerous narrations, we demonstrate the necessity of knowledge of languages for the imam in relation to his role as an imam and divine proof.
