Ismaili Shia (Nizari, Aga Khani)
Nizari Ismaili Shia, led by the Aga Khan (currently Prince Rahim, IV until 2025), is one of the most reformist and modernist global Muslim communities. Strong educational emphasis, women's equality, and substantial development work via the Aga Khan Development Network.
CLCI radar
BITE breakdown
+1 for living Imam authority and required tithing (zakat to Imamat); offset by extensive education and welfare investment in members.
In context
Nizari Ismailism follows the living Imam (the Aga Khan), tracing succession from Prophet Muhammad through Ali. The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) operates schools, hospitals, and the Aga Khan University worldwide. Tithing (typically 12.5%) supports community institutions. The community is widely regarded as one of the most progressive global Muslim communities, with active women's councils and full educational equality.
Key control doctrines
- Living Imam (Aga Khan) as authoritative interpreter
- Esoteric (batin) interpretation of scripture
- Required dasond (tithe)
Legal cases & controversies
- Internal succession disputes historically (Mustali split)
Timeline
- 1094Nizari/Mustali split in Ismaili community
- 1817Aga Khan I (Hasan Ali Shah) granted title by Persian Shah
- 1957Karim Aga Khan IV becomes Imam at age 20
- 2025Prince Rahim Aga Khan V succeeds his father
Sources
- Farhad Daftary, 'The Isma'ilis: Their History and Doctrines' (2007)
- Aga Khan Development Network publications
We cite sources by name and outlet rather than fabricating links. Search the source title plus the group name to find the original.