Twelver definitions
| Word backwards | revlewT |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The word "Twelver" is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | Twel-ver |
| Plural | The plural of the word Twelver is Twelvers. |
| Total letters | 7 |
| Vogais (1) | e |
| Consonants (5) | t,w,l,v,r |
Twelver Shia Islam, also known as Imamiyyah, is the largest branch of Shia Islam. It gets its name from its belief in the twelve imams appointed by Allah. This branch believes that only these twelve imams had the authority to lead the Muslim community after the death of the Prophet Muhammad.
Origins and Beliefs
The Twelvers trace their origins back to the Shia of Ali, a group that supported Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, as his rightful successor. Twelvers believe in the infallibility of the twelve imams and their divine mission to guide the Muslim community. They also believe in the concept of Occultation, where the twelfth imam, Imam al-Mahdi, went into hiding but is believed to return as the Mahdi to bring justice and peace to the world.
Practices and Rituals
Twelver Shia Muslims follow similar practices as other Muslims, such as the five daily prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and performing the pilgrimage to Mecca if financially able. However, they also commemorate Ashura, the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the third imam and grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. This event plays a crucial role in the identity and practices of Twelver Shia Muslims.
Significance and Influence
Twelver Shia Islam has a significant presence in countries like Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Bahrain, and others. They have played influential roles in politics, culture, and society in these regions. The influence of Twelver scholars and leaders extends beyond religious matters, shaping politics and ideologies in the Shia-majority areas of the Middle East.
In conclusion, Twelver Shia Islam is a major branch of Shia Islam that venerates the twelve imams and holds distinctive beliefs and practices. With a rich history and a strong presence in various parts of the world, Twelver Shia Muslims continue to be a significant religious community with a profound impact on Muslim societies and beyond.
Twelver Examples
- Shia Muslims who follow the Twelver school of thought believe in twelve rightful successors of Prophet Muhammad.
- Some historians argue that the emergence of Twelver Shiism was a response to political events in early Islamic history.
- The Twelver Shia community celebrates Ashura as a day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Hussain.
- Many Twelver scholars have written extensive commentaries on the Quran and Islamic jurisprudence.
- In Iran, the majority of the population adheres to Twelver Shia Islam.
- Twelver pilgrims often visit holy sites in Iraq, such as Najaf and Karbala.
- Twelver clerics play an influential role in shaping public opinion in some Middle Eastern countries.
- Theological debates among Twelver scholars continue to shape the beliefs and practices of the community.
- Twelver art and architecture often reflect religious themes and symbols.
- Twelver communities around the world organize charity events and social programs to help those in need.