Which group are followers of Ali's interpretation of Islam?

• A. Sunnis
• B. Mawali
• C. Dhimmis
• D. Shi'a

Answer: (D)

It's about who is believed to hold rightful leadership in the Muslim community after Muhammad. Ali, Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-law, is seen by his supporters as the legitimate successor in both political and spiritual terms. Those who align with Ali’s line uphold the Imamate—the idea that rightful authority comes through Ali and his descendants—so they are known as Shi’a, meaning “the party of Ali.” This distinguishes them from groups that emphasize elected or community-consensus leadership. In contrast, Sunnis accept the first four caliphs chosen by the community, Mawali refers to non-Arab Muslim converts, and Dhimmis are non-Muslims living under Muslim rule; none of these reflect followers of Ali’s interpretation.