Twelver (Imamate)

Twelver Imamate is a branch of Shia Islam that believes there are twelve divinely appointed leaders, called Imams, who are spiritual and political successors to the Prophet Muhammad. These Imams are considered infallible, knowledgeably guided, and chosen by God, serving as the rightful authorities for interpreting Islamic teachings. The twelfth Imam is believed to be in occultation, meaning he is hidden but will return as the Mahdi to restore justice. This belief emphasizes the importance of the Imams' guidance in understanding and practicing true Islam.