Why do the Shi'as believe that their Imams can provide divine guidance?

Shia belief in the Imams as divinely guided leaders stems from several key interpretations of the Qur'an and teachings attributed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the Imams themselves. Fundamental to this belief is the understanding that Imams possess a unique status and authority granted by Allah, which enables them to guide the community in spiritual and temporal matters.

The Qur'an explicitly states that Allah provides guidance to certain individuals, and Shia scholars argue that this guidance is not limited to the prophets alone but extends to the Imams as well. For instance, in Surah Al-An’aam, it is noted, Those are they whom Allah guideth, so follow their guidance 6:90. This verse emphasizes the importance of following those whom Allah has chosen to guide, which Shia interpretations connect to the Imams.

Furthermore, the Shia tradition holds that the Imams are infallible and divinely appointed successors to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This belief is supported by narrations in Al-Kafi, where it is stated that the Imams are the recipients of divine knowledge and authority. For instance, one narration mentions, Whoever dies while he does not know who his Imam is, he is considered as one who has died in the darkness of ignorance Al-Kafi 10:1486. This reflects the belief that knowing and following the Imam is essential for true guidance.

Additionally, Shia commentary such as that found in Al-Mizan explains that guidance is inherently linked to divine authority. The Imams are seen as leaders who guide their communities by the command of Allah, which is integral to their role as spiritual leaders.

In summary, the belief in the Imams' ability to provide divine guidance is rooted in their perceived infallibility, their selection by Allah, and their role as leaders who possess the knowledge necessary to guide the faithful in accordance with divine will.