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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Theological Instructions LESSON THIRTY-SIX: IMĀMAH Introduction The Prophet of Islam (s) after his migration to Medina established an Islamic state. The mosque of the Prophet apart from being a place of worship, teaching and training was a haven for the migrants and deprived.

It was from this very Mosque that the Prophet contributed in helping towards solving the economical problems of the poor, and from where he managed the governmental and judicial affairs, and from where he determined the strategy of war. Collectively speaking the Prophet of Islam administered the earthly (worldly) and heavenly issues of the people, and the Muslims in return understood that they must remain loyal to the commands of the Noble Prophet.

God the Supreme has made it obligatory for men to be absolutely obedient towards the Prophet, and especially in the political, judicial, and military affairs, God has revealed and emphasized upon the commands for executing the Prophet’s will. The Prophet of Islam apart from being an apostle, Prophet, teacher of Islam and its rulings, was also nominated by God to rule over the Islamic society. This role subsequently involved him being the military commander, and the head of judiciary …etc.

In the same manner as Islam, which is comprised of issues relating to politics, economics and rights other than just encompassing moral and worship, the Prophet was also obliged to act as an executor for issues that encompassed all religious and governmental aspects. As Islam is a path, which encompasses all spheres of life, apart from just the moral and religious aspect, the Prophet too was appointed to be an executor and guide concerning all these different spheres and issues related to them.

It is obvious that a religion that claims to be complete and to be sufficient for all time would provide clear instructions pertaining to leadership. It is not possible for a society that is based upon such a religion to be vacant of governmental and political privileges. The question arises as to who shall be the one to fulfill such a position after the Prophet’s demise? Is Divine appointment only for the case of the prophets or can it be extended to others who succeed them?

Is the selection of the Imam left to the discretion of the people, or is it a matter ordained by God the Supreme, as with the case of the prophets. Do the people have that right to elect their own Imam?