The 14 Masoomen
Explore the lives, teachings, and legacies of the fourteen infallibles in Shia Islam
Hijri Calendar
Explore the 14 Masoomen
Biography
Imam Ali al-Ridha was the son of Imam Musa al-Kadhim and the eighth Imam. He is known for his vast knowledge and his debates with scholars of various religions and schools of thought. The Abbasid caliph al-Ma'mun forced him to move from Medina to Merv (in present-day Turkmenistan) and appointed him as his successor in an attempt to control the Shia community and legitimize his own rule. However, this plan was opposed by the Abbasid family. Before the succession could take place, Imam al-Ridha was martyred, allegedly poisoned by al-Ma'mun.
Shrine of Imam Ali al-Ridha (AS)
The Imam Ridha Shrine in Mashhad, Iran is one of the largest mosque complexes in the world and a major pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims. The complex includes the mausoleum of Imam Ridha, a museum, a library, and several courtyards and prayer halls. It is characterized by its magnificent golden dome and intricate tilework.
The friend of every person is his intellect, and his enemy is his ignorance.— Imam Ali al-Ridha (AS)
Teachings & Legacy
Imam Ali al-Ridha engaged in scholarly debates with scholars of various religions and schools of thought, demonstrating the intellectual depth of Islamic teachings. His shrine in Mashhad is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Shia Muslims.
About the 14 Masoomen
Understanding the significance of the fourteen infallibles in Shia Islam
Who are the 14 Masoomen?
In Shia Islam, the 14 Infallibles (Arabic: Chahārdah Maʿsūmīn) are the Prophet Muhammad, his daughter Fatima al-Zahra, and the Twelve Imams. They are considered to be divinely appointed guides who are free from sin and error.
These revered figures are central to Shia theology and spirituality, representing the unbroken chain of divine guidance and leadership after the Prophet Muhammad.
The concept of infallibility (ismah) in Shia Islam means that these 14 individuals are believed to be protected by God from committing sins or errors in matters of religious guidance.
Further Resources
Explore these classical texts to deepen your understanding of the 14 Masoomen
Nahj al-Balagha
A collection of sermons, letters, and sayings attributed to Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, compiled by al-Sharif al-Radi in the 10th century CE.
Learn MoreAl-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya
A collection of supplications attributed to Imam Ali ibn Hussein (Zayn al-Abidin), known as "The Psalms of Islam."
Learn MoreAl-Kafi
One of the most important Shia hadith collections, compiled by Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni in the 10th century CE.
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