ভূমিকা

As such, two divinely appointed Imams which both have the highest possible position from Allah, may have different ranks. Contents Evidence from The Quran Evidence from Sunni Collections of Traditions For instance, out of the twelve Imams of Ahlul-Bayt, Imam Ali (PBUH) is the most virtuous. Also (PBUH&HF) is more virtuous than Imam Ali (PBUH) thought they were both appointed by Allah as leaders.

In other words, (PBUH&HF) has the highest rank among mankind, and is the most virtuous creature of God and the most honored before Allah. The above belief does not undermine his position since was an Imam during his time as well! However, comparing the duty of prophet and Imam is like comparing apples and oranges or is like comparing the duty of a physician and an engineer.

Imamate and prophethood are totally different functions though they may gather in one person such as or Prophet Abraham, peace be upon them. Evidence from The Quran People who are familiar with Quran to some extent, know that this belief is not a weird-thing. In fact, Quran testifies that the position of Imamate is higher than the position of prophethood and messengership.

Allah, to whom belong Might and Majesty, said: “And when Abraham was tested by his Lord with certain commands and he fulfilled them. Then He said: Lo! I appoint you an Imam for mankind” (1) As we can see, Prophet Abraham was further tested by Allah during his prophethood, and when he successfully passed the tests (which were the test on his life, leaving his wife, sacrificing his son), he was granted the position of Imamate.

This shows position of Imamate is higher in degree than prophethood which has been given to him later after acquiring more qualifications. Degrees are always granted in ascending order. We have not seen any person who got his PhD degree first, and then gets his high school diploma. At least in the administration of God there is no such mess!