Re: what is the definition of Ahl ul Bayt
Salamz to all, when it comes to inter-sectarian discussions then there should be set preconditions as to what the point of reference(s) should be or else these arguments & discussions have no end and no one ends up benefiting from them.
Just my 2 cents. All the Muslims believe in the Holy Quran and hold it as the main source of guidance. The book of Allah with the help of rational proof should be the basis of these discussions if we are to make these discussions fruitful. There were excellent proofs provided in the early part of this discussion and in my opinion from thereon the discussion deviated. I do know that there is a group of people that have problem with rational proofs but I ask them to consider that even the authenticity of the Quran depended on rational proof and Quran has challenged the humanity to answer if they could. Allah (swt) taught the Quran to the Prophet Mohammad (saww) who taught it to people. The Prophet left the Quran and his progeny to be the guides after him and this fact is unanimously agreed by all the Muslims. Therefore words of the progeny is another proof but unfortunately both major sects take separate sources to reach the teachings of the Ahl al Bait, very much like the Hadiths. When one person provides a Hadith then its almost just as easy for the other person to provide another one to refute it. Therefore, Quran and rational proof remain the best choice to be set as the main point of reference.
Some people have provided the sayings or actions of the companions and their disciples as a religious proof. The words and the actions of the Sahabas do not have any value as religious proof. Their status was much higher than us but they were just as bound as we are to follow Quran, Prophet and his Progeny who are the perfect source of guidance, away from all impurities, contradictions, and discrepancies.
Wasalam
ramesha