The 14 Masoomen
Explore the lives, teachings, and legacies of the fourteen infallibles in Shia Islam
Hijri Calendar
Explore the 14 Masoomen
Biography
Imam Muhammad al-Mahdi is the son of Imam Hassan al-Askari and the twelfth and final Imam in the Twelver Shia belief. Born in secrecy due to the Abbasid authorities' determination to prevent his birth, his existence was concealed from most people. After his father's martyrdom, he entered the Minor Occultation (Ghaybah al-Sughra) from 874-941 CE, during which he communicated with the Shia community through four successive special representatives. Following this period, he entered the Major Occultation (Ghaybah al-Kubra), which continues to the present day. According to Shia belief, he lives among people but is not recognized.
Jamkaran Mosque
While Imam Mahdi is in occultation and has no physical shrine, Jamkaran Mosque near Qom, Iran is considered a significant site associated with him. According to tradition, it was built at the order of Imam Mahdi himself, who appeared to a local resident in the 10th century CE.
The most complete in faith among the believers is the one who has the best character.— Imam Muhammad al-Mahdi (AS)
Teachings & Legacy
According to Shia belief, Imam Muhammad al-Mahdi will reappear when Allah wills to establish justice and peace throughout the world. During his occultation, qualified scholars provide religious guidance to the community based on the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet and the Imams.
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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