Preface

Chapter 1 
Origin of Shí'ism: Political or Religious?
Introduction
The Beginning of Islam
The origin of Shi'ism
The name "Shi'a"

Chapter 2 
Self-Censorship in Muslim History
Introduction
The First Open Call to Islam
Why Doesn't Ibn Hisham Mention this Da'wat?
Self-Censorship by At-Tabari
Self-Censorship in Modern Times
The Isnad of "Summoning the Family"
Conclusion

Chapter 3 
Ghadir Khumm and the Orientalists
Introduction
Study of Shi'ism and the Orientalists
Ghadir Khumm: from Oblivion to Recognition
Shaban & His New Interpretations
The Meaning of "Mawla"
Conclusion

Chapter 4 
Appointment of 'Ali: Explicit or Implicit?
Introduction
The Explicit vs Implicit
The First Explicit Appointment
Abu Sufyan Knew But Others Didn't?
Why Didn't 'Ali Use these Arguments?
Didn't 'Ali Ever Use these Arguments?

Chapter 5 
The Concept of Ahlul Bayt: Tribal or Islamic?
Introduction
The Meaning of Ahlul Bayt
Who are the "Ahlul Bayt"?
"Ahlul Bayt" Not a Tribal Concept

Chapter 6 
Wilãyat and Its Scope
What is Wilayat
The Universal Wilayat
Wilayat: Spiritual vs Political
Do Najaf & Qum Have Different Views on the Role of the Imams?
Is Not Wilayat Part of the Faith?
The Final Correction

Chapter 7 
Knowledge of the Ahlul Bayt
Introduction
The Qur'an & 'Ilmu 'l-Ghayb
'Ilmu 'l-Ghayb of the Prophets
'Ilmu 'l-Ghayb of the Imams
'Ilmu 'l-Ghayb and Personal Life
The Concept of "al-Qur'an an-Natiq"

Conclusion

Bibliography