Shia Islam

Shia Islam is the second-largest branch of the Islamic faith.

The term "Shia" comes from the Arabic phrase "shīʿatu ʿAlī." This translates to the "followers of Ali." In Arabic, the word conveys meanings of following, supporting, and obedience. Today, the term describes Muslims who believe leadership belongs to Ali ibn Abi Talib. Ali was the cousin and son-in-law of the prophet Muhammad. Shia Muslims believe Muhammad explicitly designated Ali as his rightful successor. They call this successor a caliph, which is a political leader. They also call him an imam, a divinely guided spiritual leader.

This belief in leadership is centered on the concept of the imamate. Shia Muslims believe that Imams are the spiritual and political successors to Muhammad. An Imam is a human individual who rules with justice. They are also believed to interpret divine law and its deeper, esoteric meanings. According to this tradition, Imams are chosen by divine decree, a process called nass. They are viewed as infallible, meaning they are free from error and sin. Shia theology holds that there is always an "Imam of the Age." This person provides divinely appointed authority for all matters of faith and law. This line of leadership began with Ali and continued through his descendants.

The history of the Shia identity is tied to early political and religious conflicts. After Muhammad died in 632 CE, a meeting occurred at Saqifa. At this meeting, certain companions elected Abu Bakr as the first caliph. Sunni Muslims accept the legitimacy of Abu Bakr and his successors. However, Shia Muslims believe this meeting violated Muhammad's mandate. They point to a sermon at Ghadir Khumm as evidence. In this sermon, Muhammad stated that anyone who viewed him as a leader must also view Ali as a leader. Shia followers believe those present immediately recognized Ali as the "commander of the believers."

Following the assassination of the third caliph, Uthman, in 656, Ali became the fourth caliph. He established his capital in Kufa. His rule was marked by the First Fitna, which was a major civil war. This conflict involved various revolts against Ali's authority. During this time, Ali fought the Battle of the Camel in 656. He also fought the Battle of Siffin in 657. Later, he defeated the Kharijites at the Battle of Nahrawan in 658. In 661, Ali was assassinated while praying in the Great Mosque of Kufa. This event led to the rise of the Umayyad dynasty under Muawiyah.

A defining moment for the Shia tradition occurred in 680 CE. This was the Battle of Karbala. Ali's son, Husayn ibn Ali, refused to swear allegiance to Yazid, the son of Muawiyah. Husayn traveled toward Kufa with his family and followers. They were intercepted by Yazid's army near Karbala. Husayn and approximately 72 of his followers were killed in the battle. Shia Muslims regard Husayn as a martyr, or shahid. This sacrifice for justice is a central part of Shia collective memory. The event is commemorated annually on the Day of Ashura, which falls on the tenth day of Muharram.

There are three principal branches of Shia Islam today. These are Twelverism, Isma'ilism, and Zaydism. These groups emerged as different lines of the imamate were followed. Shia Muslims also hold a profound reverence for the ahl al-bayt. This term refers to the purified family of Muhammad. They are recognized as the infallible inheritors of his spiritual authority. Sacred sites include the shrine of Ali in Najaf and the shrine of Husayn in Karbala.

Shia Muslims make up an estimated 10% to 13% of the world's Muslim population. This equals approximately 200 to 260 million followers as of 2026. Shia populations are the majority in Iran, Iraq, and Azerbaijan. They also make up nearly half of the population in Bahrain. Large communities exist in Lebanon, Kuwait, Turkey, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia. They are also found in Afghanistan and the Indian subcontinent.

Iran is the only country where Shia Islam is the official foundation of government and law.