By looking at the literature, sub-sects, and influential leaders within Ismā’īlism’s development I explore the importance of education to the Ismā’īlī community. This work begins with a portrait of the difficulties that have arisen within Ismā’īlī scholarship in the Western World and how those difficulties have created obstacles in scholarships understanding of the branch. Next I examine the theological teachings and educational methodologies that are represented in major Ismā’īlī literary works as well as how those teachings have been incorporated into modern Ismā’īlī educational practice. Central to all teachings and methods is the role played by the imām as the paramount guide in the Ismā’īlī’s journey to acquire knowledge of God and thus salvation.