Imamate according to Zaidis

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Abstract

Zaidis are one of the main branches of Shi’is and in the theory
of Imamate they are distinguished from Imamis. Their theory
of Imamate is based on the acceptance of Nass. According
to them, Imamate is the highest position in the Islamic
government; they do not believe in essential glorification
and holy position for the Imam. They are of the opinion that
Imam has no share of characteristics such as Infallibility,
divine knowledge, and the like. Thus, they believe that it is
not Imam’s duty to guide people towards God; and Imam is
appointed to execute religious punishments, Jihad, and the
like. According to them, the only way to appoint an Imam is to
refer to religion and the way in which Imam may be known is
rising and invitation. This study tries to present some points
concerning to the theory of Imamate according to Zaidis.