The Imamate of Imam Shamsiddeen Muhammed marks the beginning of the second period of taqiya in Ismaili history. The great Ismaili saint, Shams Tabriz, who was also the uncle of the Imam, played a vital role in the propagation of the faith despite the harsh conditions. He is well known due to the fact that one of his loyal disciples was the mystical poet Jalaluddin Rumi. The succession of Pirs during this time was Pir Salahuddin, followed by his son Sayyid Shamsuddin, more commonly known as Pir Shams. The Imam, when passing away, appointed his son Qassim Shah as his successor (Aziz, 1974).

Mowlana Shamsiddeen Muhammed was born in Lamasar. As his only son, he was sent away by his father during the Mongol invasion to ensure his safety. He was destined to succeed his father at the age of eight years.