Ismaili Islam

A Shia branch following a living hereditary Imam and the inner meaning of faith.

from 765 CE → · Middle East & South Asia · Abrahamic

Ismailis are a major branch of Shia Islam distinguished by their allegiance to a living, hereditary Imam descended from the Prophet — today the Aga Khan for the largest community. They emphasize the inner spiritual meaning beneath the outward forms of religion, alongside intellect and ethics. Historically influential and geographically scattered, they are known in the modern era for extensive humanitarian and cultural work.

Key figures

• Ismail ibn Jafar
• The Aga Khan (living Imam)

Texts

• The Quran
• Esoteric teachings

Beliefs

• A living, hereditary Imam guiding the faithful
• Inner meaning beneath the outer law
• Reason and spirit joined

Rituals

• Daily prayer and communal gathering
• Following the guidance of the Imam

Grew from

• Shia Islam

Connections in the atlas

• Hasan-i Sabbah
• The Epistles of the Brethren of Purity
• Zulfiqar (sword of Ali)