Abi sahl nawbakhti

Nawbakhti’s stance on sectarian identity also extends to the political realm, where he argued that the legitimacy of leadership in the Muslim community should stem from spiritual and ethical superiority rather than mere lineage. This concept aligns with the core Shia tenet of Imamat, proposing that true leaders must embody divine qualities and intellectual acumen, reinforcing the argument against despotic governance that lacks legitimacy through moral authority.

The Role of Imamat

Central to Nawbakhti’s teachings is the notion of Imamat—an essential doctrine within Shia Islam that underscores the leadership role of the Imams as divinely appointed guides. Nawbakhti elucidates the qualifications of an Imam, arguing that this individual must possess unparalleled wisdom, moral integrity, and profound knowledge. This theoretical framework not only cements the status of the Imams but also delineates the responsibilities of the community in recognizing and supporting such leaders.