Against Alusi`s Objection on the Imamate of Imams on the Basis of the Word Innama in the Verse of Wilayat

Shi'ite commentators have always proved Imam Ali`s succession for the Prophet based on the 55 verses of Maidah known as the verse of wilayat. Some Sunnite commentators have put some objections forward against this interpretative approach. Alusi, one Sunni commentator, states that: The Shi'a interpretation of the verse 55 of Maidah leads to the negation of the authority of the other Shi'a Imams. Shi'ite commentators have responded to this objection; yet, for the author of this paper, their responses have not been systematic. The latest written response to Alusi`s objection from the aspect of lubbi state of the meaning facing the verse of wilayat and lack of modification possibility, viewing what not established as established and … may not be taken as agreed with. With this attempt it has been made clear that the solution of the objection depends on the role of the word "innama" in this verse. It is noteworthy that Alusi`s objection and the response given to it both are based on true restriction, while noting the usages of the word innama shows that the restriction is relative. Therefore, one may not take the verse as a proof against Imamate.