Five Shiite principles of belief

3. Nubuwwah (Prophethood)

The third principle, Nubuwwah, pertains to the belief in the prophethood of those chosen by God to convey His message. In Shia Islam, the final prophet is Muhammad, recognized not only as a messenger but as a paragon of moral and ethical conduct. The significance of prophethood resides in its role as a conduit for divine wisdom and guidance. By studying the lives of the prophets, Shia believers glean insights into faith, resilience, and ethical living.

Moreover, Shia doctrine distinguishes itself through the belief in the Imamate—a succession of leaders from among the Prophet’s family, specifically the Ahl al-Bayt. Imams are considered to be divinely appointed guides, embodying the principles of the prophets while possessing a unique authority rooted in spiritual and moral integrity. This extension of Nubuwwah into the Imamate serves as a crucial element of Shia identity, offering followers a living embodiment of divine guidance to navigate the complexities of life.