Walaya
ولاية
walāya
✨Ismaili Terms
Spiritual authority, guardianship, especially of the Imams.
Full Definition
Walaya (also wilaya) means authority, guardianship, or spiritual leadership. In Shi'a Islam, it specifically refers to the spiritual authority of the Imams as divinely appointed guides. Accepting the walaya of the Imams is considered essential to faith. The concept emphasizes the Imam's role as the authoritative guide in spiritual matters.