What is the difference between a Prophet and an Imam according to Shi'ite theology?
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So, with my elementary readings in Shi’ite theology, specifically the Ithnā‘ashariyyah or the Twelver Shi'a branch, I couldn't differentiate between a Prophet and a Shi'ite Imam.
- The Prophets are divinely appointed by Allah for a mission, so are the Imams.
- The Prophets are divinely guided, so are the Imams .
- The Prophets are infallible with respect to the religion, so are the Imams.
- The Prophets are leader of the ummah and obedience to them is obligatory, so it is for the Imams.
- The Prophets communicate with the angels, so do the Imams.
- The Prophets performed miracles with the permission of Allah, so do the Imams.
- The Prophets were revealed the things of the future by Allah, so it is for the Imams.
- The Prophets have a higher rank/status compared to the average believer, so do the Imams.
What are the differences between them then? Please clarify the misconceptions if any.
Asked by Abdullah
(14883 rep)
Sep 10, 2012, 09:56 PM
Last activity: Jan 19, 2022, 12:09 PM
Last activity: Jan 19, 2022, 12:09 PM