What Ismailis Believe
What are jamatkhanas?
30 August 2023
Jamatkhanas are one of the many types of spaces of gathering and worship found among the world’s various Muslim communities. Today, Shia Ismaili Muslims use jamatkhanas as their primary space of worship and gathering, under the authority of the Ismaili Imam-of-the-Time.
Video: Why do Ismailis celebrate their Imam’s birthday?
10 December 2022
This short video in our What Ismailis Believe series explains why Ismailis celebrate their Imam's birthday every year.
Why do Ismailis recite salawat for the family of the Prophet (pbuh)?
5 October 2022
The latest article in our What Ismailis Believe series explains why we recite the salawat for the family of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family).
Video: The Exalted Status of the Ahl al-Bayt
7 August 2022
This short video explains the Shia view of the Ahl al-Bayt, the family of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family).
Video: Ilm, Nass, and Bayah
3 August 2022
This short video explains three core principles of Imamat in the Ismaili Tariqah: ‘Ilm, Nass, and Bay’ah. To learn more about the Imamat of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, watch the full film A Guiding Light.
Video: Imam Ali in Islamic Traditions: In conversation with Dr Hussein Rashid
19 July 2022
In this talk, Dr Hussein Rashid discusses the moral leadership of Imam Ali and his significance to all Muslims, both Shia and Sunni.
Why do Ismailis call their Imam Khudavind?
4 July 2022
The Persian word khudavind or khudawand means, “a king, prince, lord, master; or man of great authority.” Many Persian and Central Asian empires used this term throughout history to refer to people of high standing, including, at times, the sultan (ruler), wazir, government officials, and patrons.
Shia and Sunni: Understanding different Muslim interpretations
10 June 2022
Sunni and Shia Muslims share many central beliefs, including a belief in the Oneness of Allah (tawhid), and that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) was the final Messenger of Allah, who received Divine revelations recorded in the Holy Qur’an.
Video: The Glorious Qur'an
22 April 2022
As part of our series What Ismailis Believe, this short film details the historical origins of the Holy Qur'an, its significance to Muslim societies, and its inspiration in our daily lives.
Why do Ismailis seek help from Hazrat Ali and the Imams?
26 March 2022
Both Sunni and Shia Muslims believe in intercession. Believers ask those considered close to God to intercede with the Lord on their behalf.
Navroz: A time of renewal
20 March 2022
This short film explores the meaning and history of Navroz, and highlights the diverse ways in which the festival is celebrated in different parts of the world.
The Prophet and the Imams: How are they connected?
8 March 2022
The Imams of the Shia Ismaili Muslims are direct descendants of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family).
