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The 14 Masoomen

Explore the lives, teachings, and legacies of the fourteen infallibles in Shia Islam

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Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS)

Amir al-Mu'minin (Commander of the Faithful), Asadullah (Lion of God)

Birth
601 CE (Mecca, inside the Kaaba)
Death/Martyrdom
661 CE (Kufa)
Burial Place
Imam Ali Shrine, Najaf, Iraq

Biography

Imam Ali was the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad. He was the first male to accept Islam and was raised in the Prophet's household. Known for his unparalleled knowledge, bravery, and justice, he served as the fourth caliph and the first Imam according to Shia belief. His teachings are compiled in Nahj al-Balagha (Peak of Eloquence), containing sermons, letters, and sayings that demonstrate his profound wisdom and eloquence. He established a just governance system during his caliphate that prioritized equality and social welfare.

Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS) Shrine

Shrine of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS)

The Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf, Iraq is one of the holiest sites for Shia Muslims. The shrine complex includes a grand mosque and the tomb of Imam Ali. It has been rebuilt and expanded several times throughout history and is characterized by its golden dome and minarets.

Imam Ali Shrine, Najaf, Iraq
Knowledge is better than wealth because knowledge protects you while you have to protect wealth.
— Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS)

Teachings & Legacy

Imam Ali's teachings are compiled in Nahj al-Balagha, which contains his sermons, letters, and sayings. His governance model emphasized justice, equality, and welfare. His profound knowledge earned him the title 'Gate of Knowledge,' and his courage in battle is legendary.

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.

Imam Ali Shrine
Imam Hussein Shrine
Imam Ridha Shrine

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.

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Al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya

A collection of supplications attributed to Imam Ali ibn Hussein (Zayn al-Abidin), known as "The Psalms of Islam."

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Al-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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