Ismaili tariqa practices SOURCE : THEISMAILI Ismaili jamatkhanas are private tariqa spaces. Tariqa is an Arabic word meaning “path” and refers to a path to spiritual enlightenment and union with God. Tariqas are communities of Muslims that follow a path guided by a spiritual leader, such as a Shia Imam or a Sufi murshid. They guide their community’s interpretation and practice of the Islamic faith as part of an inward search for spiritual enlightenment. As direct hereditary descendants of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny), Imams in the Shia interpretation of Islam are responsible for interpreting the faith and improving the quality of life of the community and the societies in which they live. The Imam-of-the-Time has the sole authority to determine Ismaili tariqa practices in jamatkhana at any time.