Shia Caliphate

The Shia Caliphate refers to a leadership system followed by Shia Muslims, who believe that the Caliphate (leader of the Muslim community) should be based on descent from the Prophet Muhammad, specifically through his family. Unlike Sunni Muslims, who accept elected leaders, Shia Muslims hold that only divine appointment within Muhammad’s family (Ali and his descendants) has legitimate authority. Historically, the term is associated with various periods and movements that emphasize this lineage-based leadership, shaping Shia political and religious identity. It underscores the importance of family lineage and spiritual authority in Shia Islam’s understanding of legitimate leadership.