Islamism

Submitted by Dan Rusen (Canada), Oct 21, 2010 at 15:23

Dr. Pipes mentions only Wahhabi, Sunni, and Shi'a belief divisions within the fabric of Islam.

There is one more faction of Islamism that Dr. Pipes has never mentioned. The Ismailis. This faction of Islam is more closely related to Shi'a Islam, but unlike mainstream Shi'a, they differ by following the Aga Khan as their Imam and spiritual leader. Ismailis also differ in that they are not jihadis in the hostiile and dangerous form that the world has come to know, but see Jihad as a struggle from within to control and improve their own souls. Since 1957 with the elevation of the current Aga Khan, his followers embrace many western ways and clothing, take part in business, and generally form a friendly and responsible demographic in any democracy.

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