Why in News ? The term was recently used Iran’s president death.

• Twelver Shi’ism, also known as Imamiyya, is the largest branch of Shia Islam, encompassing roughly 85% of all Shia Muslims globally.

Core Beliefs:

Imamate: Central to Twelver Shi’ism is the concept of the Imam. They believe in twelve divinely appointed Imams, descendants of the Prophet Muhammad through his cousin and son-in-law, Ali ibn Abi Talib. These Imams are seen as the rightful spiritual and political leaders of the Muslim community.

Twelver Significance: The term “Twelver” refers to their belief in these twelve specific Imams.

Role of the Imams: The Imams are viewed as sinless, divinely guided individuals who possess religious and political authority. They are seen as interpreters of Islamic law (Sharia) and possess esoteric knowledge beyond the Quran.

The Twelve Imams:

• The Twelve Imams are revered figures in Twelver Shi’ism, with the twelfth Imam holding a special place.
• The Twelfth Imam: Muhammad al-Mahdi, the twelfth Imam, is believed to be in occultation (ghayba), a state of hiding by God’s will. Twelvers await his return as the messiah who will usher in an era of justice.

Distribution and Significance:

Geographic Spread: Twelver Shi’ism is the dominant religion in Iran, Iraq, Azerbaijan, and Bahrain. It also has significant followings in Lebanon, Yemen, and parts of South Asia and Africa.

Global Influence: Twelver Shi’ism plays a major role in shaping the cultural and political landscape of these regions. It influences art, literature, and legal systems. The concept of the awaited Imam also carries a powerful message of hope for a more just future.