Walaya - Context: Faith and Practice

GO BACK

Download these books:

BOOK1, BOOK2, BOOK3, BOOK4, BOOK5, BOOK6, BOOK7, BOOK8, BOOK9, BOOK10, CONNECTING WORLDS IN A GLOBALISINGAGE; CONSTITUTION

Walaya: In Shia Islam, the love devotion and allegiance which believers express to the Imams as Inheritors of the prophet's authority.

Walaya in Shia Islam

Walaya, in Shia Islam, is a central concept that encompasses love, devotion, and allegiance to the Ahl al-Bayt, the Prophet Muhammad's household. Shia Muslims believe the Imams, descendants of Ali (Prophet Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law), are the rightful successors to the Prophet's spiritual and political authority. Their love and respect for the Imams is deeply ingrained in Shia theology and practice.

Quranic Verses on Walaya:

Shia scholars interpret specific Quranic verses as pointing towards the Ahl al-Bayt and the concept of Walaya. Here are a few examples:
Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow), Verse 124:
This verse mentions Allah (SWT) appointing Prophet Abraham (AS) as an "Imam" for mankind. Shia scholars interpret this as establishing the concept of divinely chosen leadership. They argue that if leadership was designated for Prophet Abraham (AS), there must be successors who carry on this divinely ordained role. Surah Al-Isra (The Night Journey), Verse 71:
This verse speaks of a Day of Judgement where people will be called forth with their "Imams." Shia scholars interpret "Imams" here as referring to divinely appointed guides who will intercede for their followers.
It's important to understand that the concept of Wilāyah and the specific lineage of Imams are points of theological differentiation between Shia and Sunni Islam.

• Verse of Mubahala (Quran 3:61): This verse recounts where challenged the Christians of Najran to a Mubahala, a mutual cursing of those who are liars. Shia Muslims believe specifically chose his close (Ali, Fatima, Hasan, and Hussein) for this challenge, signifying their special status.

• Verse of Wilayah (Quran 5:55): This verse mentions "wali" (translated as helper) in the context of God and the believers. Shia scholars interpret this verse as referring to the ولاية (wilayah) of the Imams, their as rightful guides and leaders.

• Hadith of Khum (not Quranic): This Hadith, narrated by Sunni and Shia sources with variations, recounts the allegedly designating Ali as his successor at the Pond of Khum. Shia Muslims see this as a clear confirmation of Ali's right to Walaya.

It's important to note that Sunni interpretations of these verses may differ. Shia scholars approach the Quran through the lens of the teachings of the Imams, while Sunnis rely more on the interpretations of the Prophet's companions.

Here are some additional points to consider:

Sunni Muslims generally interpret "Imam" in the Quran as referring to religious leaders or those leading prayers.
Shia scholars have other Quranic verses they interpret as supporting Wilāyah, going beyond the two mentioned here.

The of Walaya extends beyond just the Imams. It can also refer to showing love and respect to figures like Muhammad, his companions, and righteous scholars.

Walaya is expressed through various practices, including pilgrimages to shrines of Imams, attending lectures and mourning rituals related to their lives and struggles.

FORWARD