Imam Ali Chair Notes Passing of Ismaili Muslims' Leader

Dr. Hossein Kamaly, Imam Ali Chair in Shi'a Studies and Dialogue among Islamic Schools of Thought, noted the passing of Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the world's 15 million Ismaili Muslims.

"His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV combined profound religious leadership with unmatched philanthropic benefaction," Dr. Kamaly said. "His visionary work through the Aga Khan Development Network has left an indelible mark on global development, and a great legacy for his successor."

Prince Rahim al-Hussaini, 53, has been named his father's successor.

The Aga Khan IV died on Feb. 4 in Lisbon, Portugal, his home. He was 88. 

A branch of the Shi'a tradition of Islam, Ismaili Muslims live in 35 countries. According to the New York Times, they are concentrated in Centra Asia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, and East Africa.