What are the main beliefs of Shiite Muslims?

- The belief in the Imamate: Shia Muslims believe that after the death of the Prophet Muhammad, leadership of the Muslim community should have been passed down through a line of divinely-guided imams, who are considered to be the rightful successors of the Prophet and his descendants from the lineage of Ali ibn Abi Talib, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law.

- The concept of Wilayah (Guardianship): Shia Muslims emphasize the importance of wilayah, which refers to the spiritual and political guidance provided by the imams. They believe that the imams have been appointed by God to safeguard and interpret Islamic law and to guide the community in matters of faith and practice.

- The belief in the Mahdi: Shia Muslims believe in the coming of the Mahdi, a messiah-like figure who is expected to appear at the end of time to establish justice and righteousness on earth. The Mahdi is believed to be a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and is considered the rightful heir to the imamate.

- The concept of Imamah: Shia Muslims regard the Imams as divinely-guided individuals who possess special knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual authority. They are believed to be infallible and sinless, and their guidance is considered essential for the proper understanding of Islam and for achieving salvation in the afterlife.

- The performance of specific rituals and observances, such as the daily prayer (salat), fasting (sawm), pilgrimage (hajj), and the payment of alms (zakat). Shia Muslims also engage in acts of self-flagellation during the commemoration of the Battle of Karbala, an important event in Shia history.

- Emphasis on the significance of Ahl al-Bayt (People of the Household): Shia Muslims hold a deep reverence for the Ahl al-Bayt, referring to the family and close relatives of the Prophet Muhammad. They include Muhammad's daughter Fatimah, his grandsons Hasan and Husayn, and their descendants, who are highly respected and considered sources of spiritual guidance and moral authority.

- Respect for the Quran and Prophetic traditions: Shia Muslims hold the Quran in the highest regard and consider it the foundation of their faith. They also value and follow the Sunnah, the teachings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, as transmitted through authentic sources.

- Observance of the Five Pillars of Islam: Like Sunni Muslims, Shia Muslims adhere to the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the declaration of faith (shahadah), prayer (salat), fasting (sawm), charity (zakat), and pilgrimage (hajj).

It's important to note that within the Shia branch of Islam, there are further subdivisions, such as the Twelvers (Ithna 'Ashari) who constitute the majority, Ismailis, and Zaidis, each with their own distinct beliefs and practices.