Ismai’lis and Theory of Imamate

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Abstract

Isma’ilis theory of Imamate is based on the their theory of sacred
history. According to them, based on a pre-determined plan, history is
divided into seven periods each of them begins with an Arch-prophet
whose successors hermeneutically interpret the inner aspects of the
religion of that period. The last period- which is the same as the period of
the Qa’im of the Doomsday- will come to an end with the end of history.
According to Isma’ilis, there are, in each period, a saying and a silent
prophet and Imamate is for them the continuation of executorship.
For Isma’ilis, Imamate is important since its links the earthy Imamate
with the heavenly meanings (heavenly periods and worlds of intellects).
Thus, Imam should be a descendant of the Holy Prophet (S) whose
necessity of Imamate has been proved in the basis of rational and
transmitted arguments and he should be appointed, Infallible and enjoy
knowledge and superiority. One’s worships shall be accepted if he
knows the Imam and his acts will be accepted if he obeys the Imam.
In the Isma’ili thought, the end of history contains spiritual resurrection
when the seventh saying prophet, as the Qa’im of the Doomsday, will
describe the inner truths of the world; sometimes, this saying prophet is
considered as the Promised Mahdi. Since some Mahdis have appeared
among Isma’ilis, new interpretations have been introduced in this regard;
and the seventh saying prophet (the Qa’im of the Doomsday) has been
considered as an Imam who will take human beings to the highest
station of spirituality.