Imamat

Shia Islam

Imamate in Shia Islam is a central doctrine, especially in Ismaili and Twelver doctrines. In Shia Islam, the imam is a divinely appointed guide critical to preserve and interpret the religion and faith. Ismaili belief emphasizes the imamate is vital for Muslims to under the exoteric and esoteric dimensions of the Quran. In the Twelver doctrine, the belief is that imams are members of the Prophet's family and are necessary guides after Muhammad.