Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light
The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL) is a new religious movement that emerged from Twelver Shia Islam, distinct from mainstream Islam and particularly from Sunni Islam. It was founded in 1999 by Ahmed al-Hassan in Iraq, who claimed to have been appointed by the Twelfth Imam, a messianic figure in Shia belief, to prepare the world for the coming of the Mahdi.
History
The AROPL was established by Ahmed al-Hassan, a civil engineer from Basra, Iraq. During a period of political instability in 1999, al-Hassan claimed to have met the Twelfth Imam, Mohammed ibn al-Hassan al-Askari, who had been in occultation since 874. Al-Hassan declared himself to be the prophesied Yamani, an eschatological figure who precedes the Mahdi. From its inception, the AROPL faced opposition and persecution from both Sunni and Shia establishments, who viewed al-Hassan's claims with suspicion and hostility.
Beliefs and Practices
The AROPL's beliefs diverge significantly from mainstream Sunni Islam. Central to their doctrine is the veneration of Ahmed al-Hassan as the Yamani, appointed by the Twelfth Imam. They believe that al-Hassan's role and mission are authenticated by a contested will of Prophet Muhammad, which they claim is preserved in Shiite sources. This claim is rejected by both Sunni and mainstream Shia scholars.
Distinction from Sunni Islam
The AROPL is considered heterodox by mainstream Sunni Muslims due to its rejection of key Sunni beliefs. Sunnis do not recognize the Twelfth Imam or the eschatological role of the Yamani, concepts central to AROPL's doctrine. Additionally, AROPL's rejection of established Islamic scholars and its claims of divine appointment for Ahmed al-Hassan is viewed as heretical by Sunni authorities. Sunni Islam also does not accept the authenticity of the will of Muhammad as presented by the AROPL, further deepening the divide. As a result, the AROPL remains a controversial and persecuted movement, with its beliefs and practices marking it as a distinct and heterodox group within the broader Islamic world.