A Comparative Analysis of the Two Notions about the inerrable status of Ahl al-Bayt

Abstract

To be inerrable (Asmat) is an inward trait that prevents a person from sin despite being sinful by nature is a unique feature of the prophets. In all human beings, only the prophets are innocent of sins and error. Allah has bestowed upon Ahl-e- Bayt of Muhammadﷺ  a very high position by granting them this prestigious stature of being innocent and pure from sins as per Shia school of thought. Their strongest argument in this regard is the ayat e Tatheer in which the Ahl-e- Bayt are declared cleansed of all filth of sins from them. The Ahl-e- Sunnah interpret it as a protection of Ahl al-Bayt against all sins.  In this article the viewpoint that Ahl-e- Bait are safe from sin but not innocent or inerrable is discussed.