Twelver (Imamate branch of Shia Islam)

Twelver Shia Islam, also known as Imamate, is a branch of Shia Islam that believes in twelve divinely appointed leaders called Imams. These Imams are seen as true spiritual and political successors to the Prophet Muhammad, endowed with special knowledge and divine guidance. They are considered sinless and infallible, guiding the community in religious matters. The Twelver belief emphasizes the importance of following these Imams to achieve spiritual salvation and understand God's will. This doctrine shapes their religious practices, leadership, and understanding of Islamic history and authority.