The Five Roots of ‘Usul ad-Din in Shia Islam

Question 1

Within Shi’a Islam there are five key principles. These are often referred to as the five roots of Shi’a Islam or the Five Roots of Usul ad-Din.
What are they?

Answer 1

The five roots are:
1.Tawhid - This is the belief that God is one, he is almighty and only he is worthy of worship.
2.Adalat (divine justice) - Shi’a Muslims believe that Allah is always right and just. Sometimes Allah may act in ways that are beyond our understanding, but ultimately the world has been created to be fair and just. All Muslims believe there will be a Day of Judgement, when they will have to account for their faith and deeds.
3.Nubuwwah (the prophets) - The prophets provide guidance from God and should be respected. This is especially so for Prophet Muhammad, as he was God’s final prophet and communicated the Qur’an to human beings.
4.Imamate (authority of the imams) - The Twelve Imams, all descendents of the Prophet Muhammad, were chosen by God to lead Islam after Muhammad’s death. Shi’a Muslims believe that leaders such as imams protect the religion and help to guide Muslims along the right path. Many believe that the last Imam is still alive and communicates his teachings to the world via secret mediators. Some other Shia Muslims have identified other figures - for example the Aga Khan - as the twelfth Imam.
5.Al Ma’ad (Day of Resurrection) - Muslims will be resurrected and judged by God.