About the Author

Introduction

Introduction to Second Edition

Who are the Shi‘a?

The Five Schools of Islamic Thought

Imamah

Seven Categories of Verses of Allah’s Government in the Qur’an

Imam ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib

The Ahlul Bayt

Infallibility

Intercession (Shafa‘ah)

Calling Upon the Prophet and Imams for Help

Imam al-Mahdi

Dissimulation (Taqiyyah)

Seeing Allah (Ru’yat Allah)

The Prayers Upon the Prophet (Salat ‘ala an-Nabi)

Issues Pertaining to the Practice of the Prayers

Companions of the Prophet

Differences and Misunderstandings between the Shi‘a and the Other Schools of Thought

Conclusion: A Call for Muslim Unity

References

Glossary

An excellent introduction to the major doctrines of Shi'i Islam,
including an explanation of the Ahlul Bayt, infallibility, intercession,
dissimulation, companions and wives of the Prophet, and other schools of
Islamic thought.


Inquiries About Shi'a Islam

Introduction to Second Edition
==============================

Since the first edition of *Inquiries about Shia Islam* was published in
the summer of 1999, four-thousand English copies have been distributed
and sold to Muslims and non-Muslims in the United States of America and
abroad. The book was also published in various languages.

The need still exists for a better understanding about the traditions
and followers of the Ahlul Bayt, and thus a revised second edition of
the book was made. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sister
Fatma Saleh for her generous contributions in editing and revising this
edition.

Special thanks are also due to the Khaki family of Seattle, Washington
for making this book come to print. May Allah, the most Merciful, the
most Compassionate reward all those who work sincerely to serve His
cause.

Sayed Moustafa al-Qazwini

October 17, 2005  
 Ramadan 13, 1426  
 Orange County, California


