Faith and Practice – The Ismaili Talimat

Faith and Practice – The Ismaili Talimat

Qur’anic Roots and Contemporary Guidance

Introduction

In the Ismaili Muslim tradition, faith (īmān) and practice (ʿamal) go hand in hand. Belief is not something abstract or confined to ritual—it is meant to shape how we live, how we serve others, and how we grow spiritually. The Talimat (teachings) of the Imam of the Time guide Ismailis in making that connection real and meaningful in their everyday lives.

The Institute of Ismaili Studies’ curriculum Faith and Practice in Islamic Traditions offers a rich, accessible exploration of how Islam’s spiritual and ethical teachings—rooted in the Qur’an—are interpreted through the lens of the Imamat. It shows how the Qur’anic vision of faith comes alive in the Ismaili worldview today.

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1. Qur’an and the Call to Faithful Action

The Qur’an often reminds us that belief must be followed by action:

“Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds — for them will be gardens beneath which rivers flow...”
(Qur’an 2:25)

Ismaili teachings reflect this principle: faith is not complete unless it transforms how we live and serve. The Imam encourages murids (followers) to embody values like honesty, compassion, humility, and generosity—not just in worship but in school, at work, in family life, and in service to humanity.

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2. The Imam as a Living Guide

In the Ismaili tradition, the Imam of the Time is more than a symbolic leader—he is a living interpreter of the Qur’an. This concept is rooted in the Qur’anic verse:

“And We made them Imams who guide by Our command...”
(Qur’an 21:73)

Through Talimat, the Imam helps murids understand how to live Islam meaningfully in today’s world. This includes guidance on ethics, education, pluralism, family life, and global citizenship. The Farmans and institutional initiatives of the Imamat reflect this commitment to spiritual and worldly upliftment.

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3. Knowledge, Ethics, and the Qur’anic Mandate

The Qur’an honors knowledge and wisdom:

“Are those who know equal to those who do not know?”
(Qur’an 39:9)

It also commands justice:

“Indeed, Allah commands justice and the doing of good...”
(Qur’an 16:90)

Ismaili Talimat echo these values. Education is not just about exams—it’s a spiritual obligation. Justice is not just a legal idea—it’s a moral responsibility. Institutions like the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) turn these values into real action—promoting health, education, and dignity for all, regardless of faith.

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4. Worship and the Inner Life

The Qur’an encourages deep and personal connection with God:

“Call upon your Lord humbly and in secret...”
(Qur’an 7:55)
“Remember Allah with much remembrance…”
(Qur’an 33:41–42)

In the Ismaili tradition, bandagi (private prayer) and dhikr (remembrance) offer a space for murids to cultivate that inward devotion. These practices are not just rituals—they are a way to experience divine closeness and inner peace in daily life.

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5. Diversity and Pluralism: A Qur’anic Ethic

One of the most beautiful verses in the Qur’an speaks of diversity as a divine sign:

“O humankind! We created you from a male and a female and made you into nations and tribes, so that you may come to know one another.”
(Qur’an 49:13)

This spirit of pluralism is central to Ismaili Talimat. The Imam teaches that difference is not a threat but a strength—a way for communities to learn from each other, work together, and build peace. Ismailis are encouraged to be open, respectful, and engaged with the world around them.

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6. Revelation and Ongoing Guidance

The Qur’an is the final revelation, but its meanings are deep and often symbolic:

“In it are verses that are clear and others that are allegorical…”
(Qur’an 3:7)

Ismailis believe that the Imam helps uncover these meanings (ta’wil) over time, ensuring that the faith remains relevant and responsive. The Faith and Practice curriculum encourages learners to think critically and spiritually—to seek not only knowledge, but understanding.

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Conclusion

The Qur’an gives us the foundation. The Imam provides the guidance. And the Talimat help us live that faith—in our worship, in our families, in our service, and in our pursuit of knowledge.

The Ismaili path is a living tradition, rooted in scripture yet continually evolving through interpretation and action. As the Faith and Practice volumes remind us, true Islam is not static—it’s dynamic, ethical, and always connected to the challenges and hopes of the present.

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Read more:
📚 Faith and Practice in Islamic Traditions – Published by the Institute of Ismaili Studies
🌍 www.iis.ac.uk

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