The 14 Masoomen
Explore the lives, teachings, and legacies of the fourteen infallibles in Shia Islam
Hijri Calendar
Explore the 14 Masoomen
Biography
Imam Hassan al-Askari was the son of Imam Ali al-Hadi and the eleventh Imam. Like his father, he lived under strict surveillance in Samarra, which was a military garrison town (hence his title 'al-Askari'). Despite severe restrictions, he maintained contact with his followers through a network of trusted representatives. He was known for his asceticism, piety, and generosity, particularly toward the poor and needy. He prepared the Shia community for the upcoming occultation (ghaybah) of his son, the twelfth Imam. He was martyred by poisoning at the age of 28.
Shrine of Imam Hassan al-Askari (AS)
Imam Hassan al-Askari is buried alongside his father Imam Ali al-Hadi in the Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra, Iraq. The shrine has been a target of attacks in recent years and is currently being rebuilt.
The most pious of people is he who stops at doubtful matters, and the strongest of people is he who controls his anger.— Imam Hassan al-Askari (AS)
Teachings & Legacy
Imam Hassan al-Askari prepared the Shia community for the upcoming occultation of his son, the twelfth Imam. Despite severe restrictions, he maintained contact with his followers through a network of trusted representatives.
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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