Researcher of History of Shiism, Hozeh and University Institute
Abstract
Butriyyah is a sub-sect of the Zaydiyyah sect of Islam, although according to some reports this sect existed in Kufa before the movement of Zayd, and they were only accepted as a sub-sect after they accepted the leadership of Zayd ibn Ali. This article accepts them as a sub-sect of Zaydiyyah, and analyzes the philosophical and cultural impacts that it had on Islam in the short time that it existed. Historical evidence suggests that Imams Baqir and Sadiq had two distinct methods of dealing with the followers of this sub-sect. The direct approach was to use caution when interacting with them, which led to the unity of the Shia faith and followers in society. They focused on the shared beliefs, and tried to bring them closer to the true Shia faith. The indirect approach that was applied led to the protection of the lives and beliefs of the Ithna ‘Ashari faith, and also exposed the Butris to the beliefs and jurisprudence of the Shia Ithna ‘Asharis.
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