An Exposition of the Historical Aspects of Shiah Concepts

The word “Shi’ah”, which is widely known to the followers of the school of Holy Prophet’s household, has been used to convey various meanings throughout the history of Islam, but then it became a specific term. Based on a historical method, the present paper describes and analyzes the usages of the term “Shi’ah” and delves into its concepts. The research findings show that the use of the compound noun “Shi’ah of Ali” is affirmed by the Holy Prophet’s hadiths and approved and glorified by the infallible Imams (peace be upon them). Since it was used more frequently than any other compound noun for Shiah, this word was distinguished and used as a substitute for this compound noun. In addition to the doctrinal connotation of the term “Shi’ah”, it carried some general meanings in some historical periods, but as time went by, it has become a specific doctrinal term. Given this meaning, “Shi’ah” refers to all the followers of Imam Ali and his descendents, the obedience of whom is based on the belief that these Infalliable people were appointed as Imams (successors to the Holy Prophet). On the other hand, the term “Motashayye” is applied to the person who merely declares his/her love to the infallible Imams (peace be upon them).