WHAT ARE THE PROOFS OF THE IMAMATE OF THE TWELVE IMAMS?

Taqavi · June 23

What are the proofs of the Imamate of the Twelve Imams?

The belief in the imamate of the Twelve Imams is supported by various proofs mentioned in Shia teachings. These proofs can be categorized into different groups:

1. Hadiths of the Twelve Caliphs

One of the main proofs for the imamate of the Twelve Imams is the presence of hadiths in which the number of the Prophet's caliphs is restricted to twelve individuals from the Quraysh tribe[1]. These hadiths are not only mentioned in Shia references but also found in Sunni references such as Sahih Muslim[2], Musnad Ibn Ḥanbal[3], Saḥīḥ al-Bukhārī,[4] Sahih Ibn Hibban,[5] and Yanābīʿ al-mawadda[6]. For instance, the Prophet (s) stated, "After me, there will be twelve caliphs who are from Quraysh."[7] These hadiths establish the connection between the Twelve Imams and their role as successors to the Prophet.

2. Hadiths Containing the Names of Imams

Another group of hadiths includes those in which the Prophet Muhammad explicitly mentions the names of the Twelve Imams and introduces them as his successors from the Ahl al-Bayt. These hadiths range from mentioning Imam Ali as the first Imam to Imam al-Mahdi as the last Imam, such as in, "The Imams after me are twelve; first one of whom is 'Ali b. Abi Talib (a) and the last one is the Upriser (al-Qa'im).[8] Obeying them is obeying me and disobeying them is disobeying me. Anyone who denies them has denied me."[9]

even in some group of hadiths, the Prophet (s) introduced the Twelve Imams (a) with their names and titles in full.[10] In a hadith known as the hadith al-Lawh, the names of the Twelve Imams (a) are mentioned with their special descriptions.[11]

These hadiths highlight the importance of the Twelve Imams in leading the Muslim community.

3. Infallibility

The infallibility of the Imams is considered another proof of their imamate. Various hadiths mention the infallibility of the Imams[12], emphasizing their unique position among the people. From a rational perspective, an Imam is required to be infallible, and since no one except the Imams has possessed infallibility among the people, their imamate is considered valid.[13] The infallibility of the Imams further strengthens their role as divine guides for the Muslim community.

4. Superiority

The Twelve Imams are believed to possess superiority in moral virtues and perfections over others. Their knowledge, infallibility, and noble lineage make them deserving of the position of imamate and leadership. The philosophy of imamate suggests that the Imam should be the most competent and superior individual among the people, serving as a role model in all aspects. The greatness of character and the scientific and spiritual grandeur of the Imams have been acknowledged by those who interacted with them, further reinforcing their position as leaders.[14]

5. Miracles

The Twelve Imams have performed miracles and wonders to demonstrate their divine authority. These miracles include foretelling the future, revealing knowledge from the unseen world, displaying extraordinary knowledge from a young age, and exhibiting spiritual power over creation. The issuance of these miracles by the infallible Imams (a), which is accompanied by the claim of Imamate, is evidence of their Imamate; just as the miracles of the prophets have been conclusive proof of the validity of their claim to prophethood. These acts of wonder have reported in authentic historical and hadith references. [15]

Conclusion

The belief in the imamate of the Twelve Imams is a central tenet of Shia Islam. The proofs for their imamate, including hadiths, infallibility, superiority, and miracles, establish their divine guardianship and special wilaya. The Twelve Imams, appointed by God, hold a significant role in guiding and leading the Muslim community. Their knowledge, virtues, and extraordinary qualities make them worthy successors to the Prophet Muhammad. By recognizing and following the guidance of the Twelve Imams, Shia Muslims aim to uphold the teachings of Islam and seek spiritual enlightenment.[16]

[1] . Ṣamadī, "Imāmat-i ithnā ʿashar", p. 70.

[2] . Muslim, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, vol. 3, p. 1452

[3] . Ibn Ḥanbal, Musnad, vol. 34, p. 401.

[4] . Bukhārī, Saḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, vol. 9, p. 81.

[5] . Ibn Ḥibbān, Ṣaḥīḥ, vol. 15, p. 43.

[6] . Qundūzī, Yanābīʿ al-mawadda, vol. 2, p. 315.

[7] . Ṣadūq, al-Amālī, p. 387; Baḥrānī, Ghāyat al-marām, vol. 2, p. 271; Ibn Ja'd, Musnad, p. 390; Ibn Abī ʿĀṣim, al-Āḥād wa l-mathānī, vol. 3, p. 126. ;Ibn Ḥanbal, Musnad, vol. 34, p. 421 ;Ibn Ḥanbal, Musnad, vol. 34, p. 439.