Zaydism is one of the earliest branches of Shi’a Islam and is named after Zayd ibn Ali, the grandson of Imam Husayn.

Beliefs and differences:

Zaydis recognize the Imams only up to Ali ibn Husayn (Zayn al-Abidin) and then Zayd ibn Ali.

They do not accept the doctrine of infallibility of Imams as Twelver Shi’a do.

Any descendant of Fatimah who is knowledgeable, courageous, and actively rises against injustice can be considered an Imam.

Zaydi jurisprudence is very similar to Sunni fiqh, especially the Hanafi school.

Today:

Zaydis are mainly found in northern Yemen.

The Houthi movement has intellectual roots in Zaydism, though it has become heavily politicized.