Who was recognized by the Shia branch as the first rightly guided caliph?

• A. Abu Bakr
• B. Umar
• C. Ali
• D. Uthman

Answer: (C)

Shia Islam holds that leadership after Muhammad was designated to Ali, the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law, establishing a line of divinely guided leaders beginning with Ali. This makes Ali the first Imam and rightful leader in Shia thought, often linked to events like Ghadir Khumm where Muhammad is believed to have named him as successor. Therefore, Ali is regarded as the first rightly guided leader, while Abu Bakr, Umar, and Uthman are seen in Sunni tradition as early caliphs but not the first rightful leader in Shia belief.