Typology of Imamate Conception in Imamiyyah Scholar's Thought

Imami scholars, in the case of defining Imamate position, have used three principal methods including traditional, theological and philosophical ones. The first has been based on the Prophet household`s traditions, particularly on Imam Reza (a), the second, being scholar`s famous one, has known it as: the public chair in affairs of earthly life and religion, accepted by Sunni scholars also. The third being of critical position to the famous one, trying to explain the reality of Imamate position, emphasizes on such qualities as Divine caliphate, absolute guardianship, Divine office and perfect man.