Shi'i Islam

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In six concise chapters, Mohammad Shomali offers a scholarly introduction to the key features of Shi'i Islam, a significant school of Islamic thought that has gained prominence recently. He begins by exploring the term "Shi'i," highlighting its presence in various traditions of the Prophet, suggesting that the origins of Shi'ism align with those of Islam itself. The discussion then shifts to the textual sources of Shi'i beliefs, including the Qur'an, the Sunnah of the Prophet, the teachings of the Infallible Imams, and the principles of reason and consensus unique to Shi'ism. Following this, Shomali reviews the leading doctrines, noting both shared beliefs with other Muslims and distinctive tenets such as divine justice, the Imamate, and the infallibility of the Imams. The book also details the devotional practices of Shi'i Islam and emphasizes its characteristics, particularly spirituality and rationality. It concludes with a demographic overview of Shi'i populations and highlights cities with sacred significance. This carefully argued work serves as a valuable reference for those interested in Islamic studies. Mohammad Ali Shomali, born in Iran in 1965, is a graduate of the Qum seminary and holds an M.A. from the University of Tehran and a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Manchester. He currently teaches ethics and philosophy at the Islamic College for Advanced Studies in London.