Holy Imams in the Works Shah Nematoalah Vali

The process of passage from Sunnism to Shiism is the most important change that occured in the history of Iran during the era between 7th and 10th centuries. Sufi sects like Nematolahi and Safavid, despite their early Sunnite beliefs, played important roles in this change. This study has been carried out by using historical method relying on the works of Shah Nematolah, seeking the signs of Shiism in his works and life. The findings suggest that despite his belief in Sunnism, evidences of Shiism are more frequent in his works compared to Sunni references. Shah Nematoalah has frequently referred to the prophet’s family and their titles in his works. This and his genealogy as related to the Imams are ample evidence for his sect to be counted among the Shiite sect. The aim of this study is, therefore, to find the proportion of signs of Sunnism and Shiism in his works.