Alhassanain(p) Network for Heritage and Islamic Thought

Mushaf Fatimah (a.s)

An Inquiry and Investigation into the Mushaf of Lady Fatimah and the Mushaf of Imam 'Ali (a.s)

Author(s): Abdullah Amini

Publisher(s): Islamic Research Foundation Astan-e Quds Razavi

www.alhassanain.org/english

A detailed and thoroughly referenced text shedding light on what has been referenced in numerous Shi'a Hadith as "Mushaf Fatimah [a]" and "Mushaf Ali [a]". The author goes into detail regarding the reliability of these narrations and the opinions of our eminent scholars regarding these Masahif.

Notice:

This workis published on behalf of www.alhassanain.org/english

The typing errors are n’t corrected.

Table of Contents

Translator’s Introduction 6

Note 7

Translator’s note 8

Author’s Introduction 9

What is Mushaf Fatimah? 10

Connotation of “Mushaf” 11

The Term Mushaf in the Time of The Companions of The Prophet (s.a.w) 11

The Connotation of Mushaf among Non-Muslims 12

Mushaf According to the Expressions and Lexicon of the Sahabah (Companions) 12

Mushaf in the Lexicon of the Taabi'een [The Companions Of The Companions Of The Prophet (s.a.w)] 12

Notes 12

Mushaf in classical writings 14

Mushaf in Contemporary Writings 14

Notes 14

Other books by Lady Fatimah (a.s) 15

Various opinions regarding the Mushaf Fatimah 15

1. Book of Ethics 15

2. Book of Precepts and Statutes (ketaab-e tashri'i) 16

3. Fatimah's Tablet 16

4. Last Will and Testament 17

5. Mushaf Fatimah 17

Notes 17

Reliability of the narrations regarding Mushaf Fatimah 19

Methods of determining the Soundness of Narrations 19

Mushhaf Fatimah and the ways of determining the soundness and credibility of narrations 19

Notes 20

Regarding the Mushaf: its author, scribe, content and size 21

The matters that lead to Misunderstanding 21

The author of the Mushaf 21

The Speaker and Scribe of the Content 21

Contents of Mushaf Fatimah 23

Negation of Content 23

The Mushaf does not contain Legal Rulings 24

Its Contents Proven 24

The Number and Bulk of the Pages of the Mushaf 26

Notes 26

Mushaf Fatimah and the Mushaf of the Companions 29

Similarities of the Mushafs (of Fatimah and those of the Companions) 29

1. Mushaf A'ishah 29

2. Mushaf 'Abdullah bin Mas'ud 29

3. Mushaf Ubai bin K'ab 29

Tafsir, Tahrif, Hadith Qudsi 30

Notes 30

Angelic Discourse With Those Who Are Not Messengers 32

Muhaddathah 32

Notes 34

Inquiries regarding the Mushaf 36

Why is the content of this Mushaf named after Fatimah al-Zahra? 36

Explanatory notes: 36

Translator’s Introduction

The love of the family of the Prophet Muhammad(s.a.w) and his family, his ahl al-bayt, Allah's peace and blessings be upon them, is something common amongst all Muslims. After all, Allah commanded His finalProphet( s.a.w) to tell the Muslims:

“Say: I ask no reward of you except the love of my near and dear ones.” (42:23)

Imam Shaf'i, founder of one of the great schools of jurisprudence said in commentary on this verse:

Ahl al-Bayt, your love is a Divine duty onmankind. God revealed it in His Quran.

It is enough among your great privileges that whoever does not bless you, his prayer is void.

If the love of the members of the House of the Prophet is rafdh (rejection),

Let mankind and the Jinns testify that I am a raafidhi (rejector [what they call the Shi'ah])1

The family of the Prophet(s.a.w), Imam Ali ibn abi Talib(a.s) chief amongst them, were raised literally in the lap of prophethood and was the Muslim who was the longest serving companion and confident of the holy Prophet. The Prophet's daughter,Fatimah( a.s) was herself a great scholar and hafidh (memorizer) of Quran and spiritual beacon for the Muslims and all seekers of light and love that is Islam.

Allah distinguished the Ahl al-Bayt of theProphet( s.a.w) in many ways. For example, Allah has stated that they only amongst all the Muslims, were thoroughly purified from sin and misguidance in the noble verse,

“Allah only desires to keep away the uncleanness from you, O people of the House, and to purify you a (thorough) purifying” (33:33).

One way thatProphet's( s.a.w) beloved daughter was distinguished was with a book sent to console her upon her father's death. This bookis called the “Mushaf Fatimah.” It is a great honor that the lovers of Ahl al-Bayt have carried the legacy of this book.

During unstable times for Muslims, when Muslims everywhere are facing oppression and hardship, we must heed the call to unity, to “grasp the rope of Allah” and notbe divided . The family of theprophet( s.a.w) is that rope that unites all Muslims. Unfortunately, some Muslims have taken to accusing the lovers of Ahl al-Bayt, the Shi'ah, of apostasy with deadly results. One of the reasons for this confusion and claim of apostasy is the existence of the Mushaf Fatimah. Some people have thought, mistakenly, that it is “another Quran” or a “secret Quran” that the Shi'ah read.

This small work, thoroughly researched by Mr. Amini, sets to lay to rest any misconceptions that any Muslims may have had about what the Mushaf Fatimah is. For the sake of Muslim unity, and in obedience of Allah's command to love the Prophet's family,I offer this small work of translation to the lovers of light and seekers of peace. I humbly pray that this effort pleases the noble Lady of Light, Fatimah al-Zahra( a.s) and is accepted by the One who has no beginning nor end.

Wa salaam,

Kamyar M. Hedayat, MD

7 Ramadan, 1424

Note

1. Al-Razi, F. D. Tafsir al-Kabir, v. 27, p.166.

Translator’s note

I have tried to stay faithful to the author's wording where possible straying in only a few cases. In cases where the Farsi implied butdidn't state something, or, where redundancy would clarify ambiguous statements for an audience not familiar with certain theological discourses or verbiage, I inserted words, usually in parentheses.

So as not to prejudice the reader, I have elected not to translate theword ” Mushaf” which is the crux of the entire discussion. As it will become clear, the word has many meanings. The appropriate meaningof ” Mushaf” is the raison d'être of this investigation.

The word “hazrat” (Farsi pronounciation of the Arabic, hadhrat) literally means “eminence” or, “presence.” It is a term of respect given to men and women of great spiritual import and erudition, such as prophets and Imams as well as living scholars, and the intimate family (ahl al-bayt) of the ProphetMohammad( s.a.w). However, I elected to translate the appellation of ”hazrat-e Fatemeh(a.s)” as “Lady Fatimah(a.s)” as this seems to connote in English the respect and grandeur of personality that the Arabic/Farsi implies.Also , I've elected to use transliteration corresponding to the Arabic pronunciation of loan words in Farsi rather than the transliterations of the Farsi pronunciation, e.g. Fatimah (Arabic) vs. Fatemeh (Farsi), except when an original quote, author's name, or title of a book was in Farsi.

Where possible,I have attempted to check all of the references made by the author and translate hadith quoted in Farsi directly from the Arabic and not from the author's Farsi translation.

All mistakes aremine and I implore Allah's forgiveness for any shortcomings and errors in my meager efforts.

K.M.H.,

7 Ramadhan, 1424

Author’s Introduction

There are questions and confusions regarding Mushaf Fatimah. Is it a “Mushaf” in the most common sense in that this is a Quran particular to Lady Fatimah(a.s), or, was it a book of an altogether different import? If the answer to the latter is yes, then the next questionis: did she write it (herself) or dictate it (to someone else)? Is it about normative behavior and ethics, or, commentary and jurisprudence; finally, just where is Mushaf Fatimah?

Before answering these questions, there is a more fundamental question: does this Mushaf have authenticity?Has its existence been proven in a credible manner? We will answer all these questions as the discussion proceeds below. Some people are of the opinion that this Mushaf contains the rulings of what is permissible (halal) and impermissible (haram), while others say that it contains no such matter. Others say that the prophetMohammad( s.a.w) dictated it (to her) and others still say it was the Angel Gabriel(a.s) who dictated it (directly) to her. This itself raises another question, that is, does the AngelGabriel( a.s) speak to a person who is not a prophet? If he does, then what did he say to LadyFatimah( a.s), for is it not so that after the prophet's death revelation was ceased? In any case,there are many questions that can be raised in this regard which most certainly will be answered in this tract.

This tract will lay out the research behind these issues. By the writer's leave, we have made great use of “Haqiqat Mushaf Fatimah 'ind ash-shi'eh” by Akram Barakaat. My many thanks to the publisher, Dalil-e Maa who had had utmost confidence in this publication, clarified ambiguous sentences and took up the clarification of sensitive religious issues. I nowgift this book to you, the wise reader.I hope we can take example and profit from the paragons of gnosis (naziraat-e arbaab-e ma'refat).

Abdullah Amini,Summer , 1382/2003

What is Mushaf Fatimah?

The most prevalent question about this Mushaf, the most tumultuous and confusing issue is, “What exactly does “Mushaf” mean?” The assumption is that this Mushaf is a special type of Quran. However, as we will show in the following sayings (hadith) of the ProphetMohammad( s.a.w) and the Imams(a.s), this Mushaf doesn't contain a single verse (ayah) of the Quran. However, some of the uninformed think that because it is called a “Mushaf” that it must mean “Quran”. In fact, some Sunnis come to Qom1 asking to see the Mushaf which they allege is another Quran. However, when they understand the reality that the Shiites have none other than and only that very Quran that other Muslims possess, they are stunned at the accusations made against the Shiites. A great deal of the Ahl al-Sunnah (i.e. Sunnis) thinks that the Shiites have another Quran - besides the present Quran - at their disposal! They suppose that Mushaf Fatimah is that other Quran! These allegations even make their way into secular Arab publications. For example, the Sudanese Newspaper, ”Aakhir Khabar” on 6 Rajab, 1416 included an article claiming that the Shiites have another Quran by the name of Mushaf Fatimah!

It has gotten to the point that some Shiites believe that Mushaf Fatimah is another Quran. In thisway they will assume that the narrations presented in this book have little import (because they are meant to mislead Sunnis) and doubt the chain of authority of the narrators. It is amazing in this light to see that such a personage as Imam Khomeini not only didn't hide or deny its existence, rather, he took pride in it: “We are honored that . Sahifah Fatemiyyah (i.e Mushaf Fatemah) which was inspired by God most excellent to Zahra Mardhiyyah (i.e. Lady Fatimah) is our (heritage).” 2

What do such people mean that theyare honored or take pride in Mushaf Fatimah? It's because no one had seen its contents3 came out after nightfall and said several times: ‘(There will be) a grumbling and a moaning and a dark night, and then the Imam (al-Mahdi) will come out to you wearing the shirt of Adam, and on his hand will be the ring of Solomon, and the staff of Moses.” 4 .)and it is only through narrations that we know what the subject matter is. Subsequently,I must confess that the existence of the Mushaf Fatimah has been proven and the proofs exist, however, we must approach it in a round about way. Heretofore an independent workhas not been published ; (other works) have indirectly mentioned it.

Some of the hadith about Mushaf Fatimah have used this very word “Mushaf” in which case the aforementioned thoughts are reinforced. Mohammad bin Muslim narrates from Imam Ja'far al-Sadiq(a.s), “Fatimah left a Mushaf which is not the Quran.” 5

'Ali bin Sa'id narrated from Imam al-Sadiq( a.s), “And it is with us. By Allah, Mushaf Fatimah does not contain a single verse from the Book of Allah!” 6 Imam al-Sadiq(a.s) says, “In it is what is like your Quran, only three times (in size).” 7 ,8

Some have conjectured that Mushaf is a word exclusively in reference to the Quran. If it is said that “Mushaf Fatimah”, means “Fatimah's Quran” because the last hadith says “It is like your Quran, only three times (in size)”, they conclude that the Shiites believe that the present Quran is inadequate. These people are oblivious to the fact that the preceding hadith stated emphatically that this Mushafdoesn't contain a single verse of Quran. In any case, now we will start the discussion with the meaning of “Mushaf”.

Connotation of “Mushaf”

That which has the appearance of sheets of text between two covers is called a “Mushaf”. In Sahah taj al-lughah,and , Sahah al-'arabiyyah it says, ”Al jam'e lil suhuf al maktubeh bayn al dafatayn”.9 ,10 “Suhuf” (صُحُف )

the plural of “sahifeh” (صَحيفة ) connotes a leaf or folio on which one writes. “dafatayn ” (دَفَتين ) is derived from “dafah” (دَفّة ) which connotes something which is contiguous or adjoining something. ”daftan al-Mushaf” (المصف دفتاً ) means the cover on both sides of a book.11 ,12 Consequently, a Mushaf has more than one page, not just one, although it could on occasion have no more than one page; it's still a Mushaf if it's between two covers so that the pages are contained within it.13

In conclusion, it must be said that “Mushaf” connotes a bound book inclusive to any book and is not exclusive to the Quran, although it must be said here that thatwell known meaning of Mushaf is “Quran”. Etymologically speaking, it can be said that Mushaf connotes the Quran (butdoesn't denote it - tr.).

There's no doubt that the word Mushaf has been used in reference to the Quran innumerably but can't be said that it is interchangeable with the word “Quran” even if it is the most common connotation or if it has been used in the sunnah as referring to the Quran. Take for example this narration: “The Prophet(S) said, 'Whosoever recites the collected and bound (Mushaf) Quran will have 2000 good things written for him.'” 14 He also said, “Grant your eyes a share from your worship.” They said, “And what is the share for the eyes, oh Prophet of Allah?” He said, “Looking at the Mushaf (i.e. the Quran) and pondering over it…”15

We can take away from this narration that the Quran had been collected and bound in the time of theprophet( s.a.w).

The Term Mushaf in the Time ofThe Companions of The Prophet (s.a.w)

Despite the fact that the Prophet referred to the Quran as a Mushaf (in the above narration collected by a Sunni author - tr.), the Sunni sources state that theProphet( s.a.w) absolutely did not use the word Mushaf because its first usage was in the time of Abu Bakr (the first Caliph). Suyuti16 states, “When Abu Bakr had collected the Quran, [the Muslim community] began searching for a name for it. Some suggested, “Let's call it the Gospel (Injeel).” However, others were not pleased with that (because it is what the Christians call their book). Someone said, “Let's callit ” Sifr” but again others were displeased because the Jews (called their book that). Ibn Mas'ud said, “In Abyssinia, I saw a book which they called “Mushaf”. From this suggestion, they called the bound Quran 'Mushaf'.” 17 ,18

There are three problems with this narration:

Thisdoesn't correspond with the prior narration (in the Sunni canon of hadith) in which the Prophet (S) referred to the Quran as Mushaf.

It opposes the fact that the same narration also demonstrates that the Quran had been bound during theProphet's( s.a.w) lifetime.

The word “Mushaf” is an 'Arabic word, so itcouldn't have been introduced from Abyssinia.

Imam Ali (A) says, “The heart is the Mushaf of the eye.” 19

The Connotation of Mushaf among Non-Muslims

Among the multitude of references that demonstrate that Mushaf doesn't exclusively connote the Quran, are those used by non-Muslim 'Arabwriters. For example, ibn S'ad (a Muslim writer) in Tabaqaat al-Kabari conveys the story of one “Sahal the Christian” in which [Sahal] refers to the Gospel and other holy writings amongst [the Christians] with the word Mushaf20 as did 'Arab Muslims. If it were the case that Mushaf only referred to the Quran, theywouldn't have used it for (their writings). For example, Umm Salamah, the wife of the prophet(s.a.w) recounts the story of the Abyssinians as such: “They would unravel their scripture around and about themselves; their patriarch would begin scribing until that volume was soaked with ink.” 21 As well, one “Owzaa'i”, born 33 AH, living 157 years (he died 9 years after the martyrdom of Imam al-Sadiq( a.s)) referred to Byzantine manuscripts as Mushaf.22 ,23

Mushaf According to the Expressions and Lexicon of the Sahabah (Companions)

The companions of the Prophet ofAllah( s.a.w) used Mushaf to refer to other than the Quran. For example, the famous companion Abi Sa'id Khudri in answering some people who wanted him to narrate hadith to them said, “I won't say a thing for you to write until you've read the Mushaf (of hadith already compiled).” 24 Also, Uthmaan ibn 'Affan (the third Caliph) requested of Hafsah,25 “Send us the (unbound and fragmentary) manuscripts (of Qur'an) so that we may compile and make a Mushaf of them (nunsakha fil masahif) . .”26

Mushaf in the Lexicon of the Taabi'een [The CompanionsOf The Companions Of The Prophet (s.a.w)]

In the same way that the sahabah had used Mushaf to refer to other than the Quran, the taabi'een followed suit. In this regard, there are commentaries and lexicons; we will site here a sentence from Mohammad bin Sirin Ansaari: ”'Ali swore to not don his cloak (i.e. not leave his house) except on Fridays (for public prayers) until he had collected the Quran into a book (fi Mushaf).” 27

If the term Mushaf in this report meant Quran, it would be redundant. It would be like saying that he (A) was collecting the book of Quran into a book. Then, the literal meaning of Mushaf is clear. The second report comes from Rafi' bin Mehraan who narrated, ”[The companions] collected the Quran into a book (fi Mushaf).” 28

Notes

1. Qom, Iran is one of the oldest Shiite cities, settled in the 2nd century, AH. It is one of the premiere centers of Shiite theological learning and the pilgrimage site for the sister of the eighth Imam, Fatimah al-Ma’sumah (A).

2. Khomeini SRM.Last Will and Testament, page 3.

3. The Imams(a.s) possessed this mushaf, along with the seal of the Prophet (s.a.w), the staff of prophet Moses(a.s), etc. as proofs of their vice regency. The twelfth Imam, Al-Mahdi( a.s) (may Allah hasten his appearance) currently possesses it. For example, in one hadith it says, “One night, Amir al-Mu’mineen (i.e. Imam‘Ali( a.s

4. Al-Kafi, v.1, hadith #619

5. Majlisi MB.Bihar al-Anwar, v.26, p.41, hadith #73. Darul kutub al islamiyyah, Tehran, Iran.

6. Majlisi MB.Bihar al-Anwar, v.27, p.271, hadith #3. Darul kutub al islamiyyah, Tehran, Iran.

7. Kulaini M. Usul al-Kafi, v.2, p.613.

8. Majlisi MB.Bihar al-Anwar, v. 26, p.39, hadith #10. Darul kutub al islamiyyah, Tehran, Iran.

9. Juhari, Sahah taj al-lughah,and , Sahah al-‘arabiyyah, v. 4, p. 1383

10. Zubaydi, Taj al-‘aroos, v. 6, p.161.

11. Fayyumi, Misbah al-munir, p.197

12. Abu Hilaal al-‘Askari, al-furuq al-lughwiyyeh, p.241, Qom, Basirti Publication

13. Zarqaani, Minahil al-irfaan, v.1, p.384, Beirut, Daaraahiya’ Al-Tiraath Publication, 1412 AH/1994

14. Zarkeshi, Al Burhan fi ‘Ulum al-Quran, v.1, p.546. Beirut, Daar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyeh, 1403 AH/1983

15. Tirmidhi, Navaadir al-Usul, v.3, p.254, Beirut, Daar al-Jeel, 1412 AH/1992

16. Suyuti was a renouned Sunni scholar and prolific author with over 700 extent works attributed to him. He was also a Shadhili Sufi. He was consideredto be the foremost authority of hadith and ‘Arabic language of his day. While he lauded Imam ‘Ali in his work, Al-qawl al-jali fi fada'il `Ali (The manifest discourse on the virtues of `Ali ibn Abi Talib), he was no friend of the Shi’a. For example, he penned the polemic, Risala al-sayf al-qati` al-lami` li ahl al-i`tirad al-shawa'i` (Epistle of the sharp and glistening sword to the Shi`i people of opposition) as well.

17. Suyuti J, Al-Atqaan, v.1, p.53

18. Kitaabi, Al-Tarteeb al-Aadaariyyeh, v.2, p.231, Daar al-Kitab al-‘Arabi

19. Ibn Abi Talib A. Nahj al-Balagha, saying #408

20. Ibn S’ad, Tabaqaat al-Kabari, v.1, p.363, Dar Sadr Publications

21. Ibn Hishaam, Seerah al-Nabi, v.1, p.353, Beirut; Dar al-Fikr Publications, 1401 AH/1981

22. Ibn S’ad, Tabaqaat al-Kabari, v.7, p.433, Dar Sadr Publications

23. Tahdheeb al-Kamaal, v.17, p.315, Mu’asassah al-Risalah

24. Baghdadi K, Taqyeed al-‘Ilm, p.36, Beirut; Daar al-Sunnat al-Nabawiyyah, 1974

25. Hafsah was the daughter of ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab, the second Caliph. Hafsah was also a wife of the prophet Muhammad (s.a.w).

26. Bukhari M, Sahih al-Bukhari, v.6, book 61, hadith #4938, p.120, Beirut; Daar al-Fikr, 1411 AH/1991 (hadith #510, book 61: Virtues of the Quran according to

http://www.usc.edu/dept/MSA/fundamentals/hadithsunnah/bukhari/061.sbt.ht...

27. Sijstani, Al-Musahaf, p.10, Egypt; Rahmaaniyyah publications

28. Sijstani, Al-Musahaf, p.9, Egypt; Rahmaaniyyah publications

Mushaf in classical writings

Mushaf was used by classical writers in their manuscripts in reference to a bound book . Forexample the author Jaahidh referred to each section of his book Al-Haywaan as a Mushaf and at the end of each section he would write, “thus ends the first Mushaf and begins the second Mushaf. .”

Also, Sheikh Aba Bakr bin 'Iqaal Saqli in Fawaa'id says, “The sahabah didn't collect the sunnah of the Prophet ofAllah( s.a.w) in a book (Mushaf).”1

It's worth pointing out that the word Mushaf is mentioned neither in the Quran itself nor was it counted among the names of the Quran. Jalaaluddin Suyuti2 and Abu Al-Ma'aali al-Saaleh, who was one of the transmitters of hadith of Islam, counted 55 titles for the Quran and the word “Mushaf” was not among them.

It's interesting to know that no one objected to Seebway's calling his book Al-Keetaab, despite the fact that that was one of the titles of the Quran, but they object to the book of Lady Fatimah(a.s) being called “Mushaf”.

Mushaf in Contemporary Writings

Dr. Imtiyaaz Ahmad in his book Dalaa'il al-towtheeq al-mobakkir lilsunnah wa al-hadeeth says that Mushaf doesn't just refer to the Quran, but can refer to (any) book. In order to prove his claim, he cites several sources.3 Also professor Bakir Bin 'Abdullah in his book Ma'rifat al-nasakh wa al-sahhaf al-Hadeeth says, ”'Mushaf' is an idiomatic expression which is inclusive to any collected work used by speakers.” 4

Dr. Nasiraddin Asad in Masaadir al-shu'ur al-jaahili writes, “They called any bound book a “Mushaf” and it strictly refers to a book, not just the Quran.” 5

Notes

1. Abu Rayhah, Adhwa’‘ala al-sunnat al-mohammadiyyah, p.259, Al-Batha’ publication.

2. Al-Itiqaan fi ‘ulum al-Quran, v.1, pp.51-52, Beirut; Daar al-Fikr

3. Ahmad I, Dalaa’il al-towtheeq al-mobakkir lilsunnah wa al-hadeeth, pp.263-269, A. Amin tr., Pakistan; Islamic Research Publications

4.bin ‘Abdullah B, Ma’rifat al-nasakh wa al-sahhaf al-Hadeeth, pp.23-31, Jeddah; Daar al-Raayah.

5. Asad N, Masaadir al-shu’ur al-jaahili, p.139, Cairo; Daar al-Ma’aarif, 1969.

Other books by Lady Fatimah (a.s)

Various opinions regarding the Mushaf Fatimah

As far as we know, no Shiite or Sunni scholar has ever gotten their hands on Mushaf Fatimah. Rather,they've gained an understanding of its scribe and author from the relevant hadith on the subject. In this respect, therehasn't been a far-reaching or comprehensive research on the matter. Some have said, “Her Mushaf contains parables, edicts, sermons, historical accounts and miracles and amazing occurrences. Imam'Ali( a.s) is its author, and he gifted it to her as a consolation after her father's death”1

Others are of the opinion that this Mushaf contains jurisprudence (shar'i), normative and ethical rulings, all future events, and that Lady Fatimah(a.s) wrote it from all the pronouncements that she heard from her father (the prophet Mohammad(s.a.w)) and her husband (Imam 'Ali(a.s)).2

Imam Khomeini in his last will and testament said, “Sahifah Fatimah was inspired to her from the very presense of the Lord most High to Zahra Mardhiyyah (i.e. Lady Fatimah).” 3 Sayyid Muhsin Ameen is of the opinion that this noble Lady (a.s) has two books: one inspired by her Lord, the other the sayings of the prophet of Allah (s.a.w) to LadyFatimah( a.s).4

There reason that there are so many divergent opinions on the content of this Mushaf, as the above quotes point out, is owing to the fact that the hadith are scattered in various chapters of various books. There are no analytical or theoretical analyses (of the hadith by the scholars who had collected the hadith). Because of this, the foundation of the argument and investigation are narrations thathaven't been collected into one chapter (of a book of hadith), rather, they are in various books.

Indeed, none of the books that refer to Lady Fatimah (a.s)have hadith that mention the Mushaf's content mention the same content twice (i.e. every hadith says that the Mushaf contains something different). In this respect, some have thought that the Mushaf is the very one that the reports mention, this because of the divergent opinions that have arisen. However, these hadith speak of the books (kitab) of Lady Fatimah (a.s) and not per se of her Mushaf. In light of this, it is fitting to allude to these other books until we can separate them from and arrive to her Mushaf.

1. Book of Ethics

Neither the Shi'a or Sunni books of hadith have noted such abook, rather, its existence has been alluded to in the above mentioned books. Kharaa'aty (a Sunni) narrates from Mojaahid, “Ubayy bin Ka'b, went to visit Fatimah (May Allah's pleasure be upon her) - the daughter ofMohammad( s.a.w). Fatimah took outa a book hidden between the fronds of a date tree and showed it to him. In it was written, 'Whoever believes in God and the day of resurrection is kind to his neighbor.'” 5

There is anothernarration which refers to this book. It is clear that the above hadith is actually a partial narration. Sheikh Kulayni quotes the full narration in Usul al-Kaafi from Imam al-Sadiq( a.s)6 . Abu Ja'far Mohammad bin Jarir bin Rustam Tabari quotes from the scholars of the fourth (Islamic) century also quotes this hadith - with an even longer narration - in the book Dalaa'il al-Imamah.7

Apparently, the people who said that Mushaf Fatimah is about factual and ethical matters and etiquette had seen this hadith. As we will point out, Mushaf Fatimah does not contain ethical matters. Therefore, there is no basis for this belief.

2. Book of Precepts and Statutes (ketaab-e tashri'i)

Such a bookhas not been recorded in the books of hadith. However, in responding to the question the representative of Mansur - the 'Abbassid Caliph - in Medina, Imam al-Sadiq(a.s) made reference to this book.8 From this we can infer that Lady Fatimah(a.s) was in possession of a book on precepts and statutes.

'Allamah Sayyid Muhsin Amin considered this book to be Mushaf Fatimah,9 however it must be said that there are narrations - to be noted later - that say that the Mushaf of this noble Lady did not contain matters of the permissible and forbidden. If such jurisprudential rulings were noted, there are other hadith by LadyFatimah( a.s) quoting her eminent father, the prophet of Islam(s.a.w) that say otherwise.10

3. Fatimah's Tablet

Lawh (لُوْح ) refers to wide pages of wood or bone, which in Farsiis called taablow (تابلو ), or, takhteh (تخته ). The existence of this tabletis noted in a great number of hadith. It contains the names of the Shi'ahImams( a.s).

Abu al-Fath Karaajaki (d. 449 AH) firmly believes that all the Shi'ah (scholars) are unanimous regarding the content of this tablet.11 The content of this tablet have not been reported in one place. It has a number of various chains of authority. Kulayni, quoting from Jaabir bin 'Abdullah Ansaari says the following,

“I approached Fatimah and in her hands was a tablet. In it were the names of the executors (of the prophetic trust) (الأوصياء ) from her children, and they numbered twelve.12 The last of them was Al-Qaa'im, three amongst them were (named) Mohammad, three amongst them 'Ali.” 13

What [the narrator] meant by “three amongst them were (named) Mohammad” was Mohammad al-Baqir( a.s) (the 5th Imam), Mohammad al-Jawaad(a.s) (the 9th Imam) and Mohammad ibn al-Hasan al-Mahdi(a.s) (the 12th Imam, referred to in the hadith as “Al-Qaa'im”). However, the statement that “three among them 'Ali” doesn't correspond to the number of Imams with the nameof ” 'Ali”. There were actually four of them: Imam'Ali( a.s) (the 1st Imam), 'Ali ibn al-Husayn al-Sajaad(a.s) (the 4th Imam), 'Ali ibn al-Musa al-Ridha(a.s) (the 8th Imam) and 'Ali ibn al-Mohammad al-Haadi(a.s) (the 10th Imam). How do we rectify this?

The first answer: the pronoun “amongst them” (مِنهُم ) refers to “her children” (وُلْدِها ). In these respect, the meaning of “three amongst them 'Ali” is the children of LadyFatimah( a.s) and that's why the narrator didn't mention the name of Imam 'Ali(a.s) (the husband of Lady Fatimah(a.s) and father of the Imams(a.s)).

The second answer: The scribe erred (in writing “three amongst them 'Ali”. It was meant to be written as “four amongst them 'Ali”. There is a hadith from Abi al-Jaarud quoting Imam al-Baqir( a.s) in which the Imam(a.s) says “four”.14

The third answer is that the pronoun of “amongst them” (مِنهُم ) is referring to [they numbered] “twelve” (اثنى عشر ). If the narrator hadn't said “four ['Ali's] amongst them” (مِنهُم أربع ) it was because Imam'Ali's( a.s) name was not written on the tablet. (Regardless), his title has been noted in the tablet as we will see in a narration by Abu Basir.15 The (complete) contents of this tablet are mentioned and verified in Kamaal al-Din wa Tamaam al-Ni'mah.16

The contents of this tablet - and in some people's opinions, the tablet itself - was a gift from Allah to theProphet( s.a.w) which the Prophet(s.a.w) had gifted to Lady Fatimah(a.s).17

4. Last Will and Testament

It has been narrated in numerous hadith with multiple chains of transmission that Lady Fatimah(a.s) left behind a book in which wrote down her will and testament.18 This will and testament was shar'i, regarding the seven orchards19 bequeathed to Lady Fatimah(a.s) by the Prophet(s.a.w); thus it actually contained a political and social advice.20 Among her last desires was that certain people not be present during her burial, that her place of burial not be revealed, etc. Her last will and testament contains a plethora of matters that are also contained in the Mushaf Fatimah. Some have said that Imam'Ali( a.s) found it by her bedside after her demise.21

5. Mushaf Fatimah

The existence of this bookhas been noted , again, by several sources in numerous narrations. We have already enumerated a number of questions surrounding this book, to name a few: who dictated this book? Who is its author? What is it about?Has any alteration in the Qur'an been alluded to in it? Where is this book now and who possesses it?And …

Notes

1. Musawwi, S, Al-Muraaji’aat, p. 521, Iran; Daar al-Kitaab al-Islaami, no date given.

2. Ma’rufulhasani, H, Seerat al-A’immah al-Ithna ‘Ashari, pp. 96-97. Beirut, Daar al-Ta’aaruf.

3. Khomeini, R. Vasiyat nameh siyasi-elahi Emam Khomeini, p. 3, Tehran (no date or publisher given).

4. Ameen, M. “A’ayaan al-Shi’ah, v.1, pp.313-314. Beirut, Al-Ansaaf publications.

5. Kharaa’ati, Makaarim al-aklaaqwa ma’aaliha, p. 43.Maktabah al-Islaam al-‘aalamiyyah, Cairo (no date).

6. Bahrani-Isfahaani, ‘Awalim al-‘ulum, v.11, p.533. Tahqiq mu’assasseh Imam Mahdi, Qom (no date).

7. Tabari, M. Dalaa’il al-Imamah, p.5. A’alami, Beirut (no date).

8. Kulayni, M. Furu’ al-kaafi, v.3, p.705, hadith #2. Daar al-Adhwa’, Beirut (no date).

9. Amin, M. A’ayun al-shi’ah, v.1, p.314-315 (no publisher or date).

10. No author, Sirah al-a’immah al-ithnah ‘ashar, v.1, pp.96-97 (no publisher or date).

11. Karrajaki, A. Al-istinsaar fi al-nafs ‘ala al-a’immah al-athaar, p.13. Daar al-Adhwa’ publications, Qom (no date).

12. The narrator states that there were 12 Imams, and says that there are3 Imams named Mohammad, 3 named ‘Ali. That makes six. There was another ‘Ali, Imam ‘Ali(a.s), but the narrator was speaking of the Imams amongst the children of Lady Fatimah(a.s), so, he didn’t count Imam ‘Ali(a.s) as it was self-evident to him as he lived as a contemporary of Imam ‘Ali(a.s). That makes7 Imams, and 5 unaccounted for. There were 2 Hasans: Hasan ibnAli( a.s) (the 2nd Imam) and Hasan ibn Ali al-‘Askari(a.s) (the 11th Imam), 1 Ja’far: Ja’far ibn Mohammad al-Sadiq(a.s) (the 6th Imam), and 1 Musa: Musa ibn Ja’far al-Kadhim(a.s) (the 7th Imam).

13. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.533.

14. Sadduq, M. ‘Uyun akhaar al-ridha, v.1, p.47, hadith #7. Reza Mashhadi Publications, Qom, 1363/1984.

15. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.527, hadith #4, Sadduq M, Kaamal al-Din wa Tamaam al-Ni’mah, v.1, p.303, Nashr-e Islaami Foundation, Qom (no date).

16. Sadduq, M. Kaamal al-Dinwa Tamaam al-Ni’mah, v.1, p.311, Nashr-e Islaami Foundation, Qom.

17. Mufid, M. Kitaab al-‘Irshaad, p.262, Basirati Publication, Qom (no date); also in, Sadduq, M. Kaamal al-Dinwa Tamaam al-Ni’mah, v.1, p.312, Nashr-e Islaami Foundation, Qom (no date), and in, Majlisi, M. Bihaar al-Anwaar, v.36, p.201.

18. Tusi M. Tahdhib al-Ahkaam, v.9, p.144, hadith #50. Daar al-Adhwa’, Beirut.

19. The seven orchards refer to the area aroundFadak which was a war spoil after the conquest of Khaybar. It belonged to theProphet( s.a.w) Mohammad and he bequeathed it to Lady Fatimah(a.s). The Caliphs who took power after the Prophet’s demise stated that Prophets only bequeath knowledge, not property, thus they usurped it from that nobleLady( a.s).

20. Majlisi, M. Bihaar al-Anwaar, v.103, p.135-136, hadith #14.

21. Ibid.

Reliability of the narrations regarding Mushaf Fatimah

Perhaps the most important question about this Mushaf is the reliability of the narrations about it. The other issuescan only be addressed after the determination of credibility of the narrations. Therefore, we must proceed with this questions first.

Methods of determining the Soundness of Narrations

There are a number of ways to understand the soundness of narrations. Of these, three are the most important:

1st : Examining the (credibility and lives of the) men mentioned in the chain of narrators of a hadith.1 If the men are considered to be reliable (i.e. pious and honest at the time of the narration) then the hadith is reliable.

2nd: There are indications other than the chain of narration that sometimes, even though there are multiple chains of narration; the occasion arises that all the narrators possess the necessary qualifications (of piety), but a single narrator in the chain didn't apply that hadith in theory or practice. The scholars consider such a hadith to beweak, otherwise, they wouldn't have disregarded it. Likewise, there arehadith which are not altogether sound, but there are indications that reliable scholars accepted and applied the subject, thus it is considered to be a credible hadith. In such a situation, the narrationis considered authentic (وثق ) but not well-documented (ثقة ).

3rd : Believability and lack of discrepancy between the legislative, doctrinal and historical hadith. Regarding the first type, that is to say, jurisprudential hadith, it is sufficient for the hadith to have a sound chain of narrators. However, regarding the other two, the acceptance of andconsensus of opinion between scholars is sufficient (to prove a hadith's reliability).

If you substitute the latter method (believability andconsensus of opinion ) for the former (multiplicity of chains of narration), then in any case, the proof of credibility of a hadith is one's belief in its credibility without needing to examine who the narrators in the chain are.

Mushhaf Fatimah and the ways of determining the soundness and credibility of narrations

Lo and behold, the moment has come to answer the questions raised so far. The narrations concerning Mushaf Fatimah are sound and reliable by any of the three methods we have noted. If we want to use the third method, every single Shi'a scholar has acknowledged the authenticity of the narrations concerning this Mushaf, and wehaven't found a single dissenting scholar (in this regard). This matter strengthens the determination of authenticity using the second method (multiplicity of chains). We should mention that some have said, “Is it possible thatJibra'il( a.s) would descend unto Lady Fatimah(a.s) and impart matters to her, and that 'Ali(a.s) could hear this and write it down?” Others say, “But'Ali( a.s) is superior in virtues to Fatimah(a.s); he(a.s) seems worthy of such a revelation.”

We will answer these reproaches. For the time being, it suffices to quote 'Allamah Muhsin Amin who said, “it is neither improbable nor is there room for doubt to believe thatJibra'il( a.s) would speak to Zahra(a.s) and that 'Ali(a.s) could hear it.It's recorded in a book by the name of Mushaf Fatimah. What's more, the reliable companions of theImams( a.s) have narrated such a thing. To those who doubt this, or think it to be improbable, or who think it to be exaggerated or lacking impartiality,I say, 'Do you doubt the power of Allah the most high? IsZahra( a.s)2 , who is of the very essence of the Prophet(s.a.w) not worthy of this grace? Do you doubt the soundness of a narration despite the fact that they were uttered from the very Imams of guidance who were the issue of this noblelady and are totally reliable? Given the fact that this same honor was bestowed on Aasif bin Barkhiyaa and alsoSulaymaan( a.s), and they certainly not more dear to Allah than the family of Mohammad(a.s)!3

The reliability of the hadith concerning the Mushaf Fatimahcan also be demonstrated by the first method. For example, Kulayni in Al-Kafi considered the hadith and narrations about this book to be acceptable (صحيح).4 In one of these hadiths, Imam al-Sadiq( a.s) says, “Fatimah(a.s) lasted 75 days after the departure of the Prophet of Allah(s.a.w). Because of her father's (death), she suffered a profound sadness.Jibra'il( a.s) alighted to her in order to abate her grieving and to give her something pleasing. He informed her about her father's (state in heaven) and his (exalted) rank and told her what would happen to her descendents.'Ali( a.s) recorded all this (information), and this is Mushaf Fatimah.5

Notes

1. This referred to as ‘Ilm al-Rijaal, the science of the narrators of hadith. It is a field of study on to its own in which the lives and beliefs of the narrators of hadith are studied.

2. Zahra (the radiant one) is one of the titles of LadyFatimah( a.s).

3. Amin, H. A’ayaan al-Shi’a, p.314. NB: The author’s son has removed this quote from the recent edition of the book.

4. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.239, hadith #1; also in, Majlisi, M. Bihaar al-Anwaar, v.26, p.39, hadith #70; also in, Rijaal Najaashi, v.1, p.204-205; and in Rijaal Tusi, p.366.

5. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.241, hadith #5; also in Majlisi, M. Bihaar al-Anwaar, v.26, p.41, hadith #72.

Regarding the Mushaf: its author, scribe, content and size

The matters that lead to Misunderstanding

We said that the matter of Mushaf Fatimah sometimes lead to the misunderstanding that it was a Quran unique to Lady Fatimah(a.s) in existence. In the same way that Mushaf 'Abdullah bin Mas'ud, Mushaf 'Aa'isha, or Mushaf Ubayy bin K'ab may strike you (as being editions or versions of the Qur'an), we determined in the first chapter, after we examined these books and the 'Arabic lexicons (for the meaning of “Mushaf”), (that this was not the case). We came to understand that “Mushaf” does not denote the Quran.

Furthermore, we said that this book does not contain a single verse from the Quran, and in this respect, it contains nothing of the exegesis of the Quran or any Quranic matters whatsoever. Meanwhile, the prior discussions alluded to the fact that this Mushaf was scribed or written via Lady Fatimah(a.s) and because of that it was called Mushaf Fatimah.1 It was a divine gift to her. Thus, who was the author or narrator of these words? If the content of this Mushaf is not the Quran, whatcan be found in it? What are the dimensions of the book?And …

The author of the Mushaf

There are numerous accounts that present Imam 'Ali (a.s) as the author of the Mushaf. In response to a question posed by Hammad bin 'Uthmaan, Imam al-Sadiq(a.s) says regarding the author of the Mushaf that, “Amir al-Mu'mineen (i.e. Imam 'Ali(a.s)) wrote whatever he heard until it became of book.” 2

However, ibn Rustam al-Tabari in Dalaa'il al-A'immah relates a hadith saying that Mushaf Fatimah descended (from Heaven) bound, that no one dictated it; Imam 'Ali(a.s) became the one to scribe it.3

There are two points worth mentioning:

The meaning of “descended (from heaven)” doesn't mean that it literally came (down to earth) as a (bound) book, rather it's the content and message that descended (by the instrument of angels). There's nothing to say that Imam'Ali( a.s) was not ready to write down the subject matter when the angels descended. However, this explanation is doubtful.

Perhaps the only way to resolve this matter isto not accept al-Tabari's narration. The chain of authorities is weak. Ja'far bin Mohammad bin Maalik Fazaari is included in the chain and Najashi (the great expert on chains of authority) considers him to be weak in reporting hadith and corrupt in his religious beliefs and narrations.4 Others have also rejected him.5

The Speaker and Scribe of the Content

Allah: Some have said that it is Allah who dictated6 the contents of the Mushaf. Imam al-Sadiq says, “Whatever is in it, was told to her by Allah and He inspired her with it.” 7 ,8 The mother of Moses(a.s) also received this type of inspiration. In the chapter of the Quran, Al-Qasas, verse 7 it reads, “And We inspired it to Moses' mother…”9

Angels: Others believe that it was the speech of an angel. There is a hadith by Imam al-Sadiq( a.s) which supports this possibility,

“Indeed Allah sent her an angel to console her in her grief and speak with her.” 10

Gabriel:11 Imam al-Sadiq is quoted in Sahih Abu 'Ubaidah that it came from the arch-angel Gabriel: “Gabriel went to her to lighten her sorrow regarding her father and lift her spirits and inform here of her father and his position (in heaven) and inform her of what will become of her descendants.” 12

Allah's Messenger: ImamHusein( a.s) says, “Mushaf Fatimah is with us but - and I swear by Allah - that there is nothing of the Quran in it. Allah's messenger ( رسول اﷲ ) dictated it and 'Ali wrote it.” 13 So according to this hadith, the one who dictatedit was sent by Allah . 'Allaamah Majlisi (the compiler of Bihar al-Anwaar) writes in commentary that the mean of “Allah's messenger” is Gabriel.There are many verses (of the Quran) which refer to the angels as being Allah's messengers.14

Whether we say that the utterance of this Mushaf is from Allah or Gabriel makes no difference because these sayings are from Allah through the agency of Gabriel.15 But, we can't be certain as to whether what is meant by “Allah's messenger” is the (human) Messenger of Islam (or Islam's messenger, i.e the one who brought Islam from the heavenly abode - Gabriel), because there are numerous narrations declaring that the utterances in the Mushaf were said after the demise of the Messenger of Allah (i.e. the Prophet Mohammad[s.a.w]) and in consolation of his eminence's (death) that it was said to and for Lady Fatimah (A).

It can be said that Lady Fatimah (A) had2 Mushafs. One was a collection of her father's sayings, the other from Gabriel. Or, it is possible to say that Mushaf Fatimah was but one book but had two sections - words of the Messenger of Allah(s.a.w) and the inspirations of Gabriel (to and for Fatimah[a.s]). In his most valuable book A'ayan al-Shi'ah, Seyyed Muhsin Amin is of the first opinion.16

What is more correct is that LadyFatimah( a.s) had in her possession two other books, one on ethics and morals, the other legislative.So, we could say that Mushaf Fatimah was uttered the Allah's messenger (i.e. Gabriel) based on the narrations saying that Gabriel dictated it (to Fatimah, or, 'Ali) and that [Gabriel] didn't mention legislative commands.17 Thus, if Lady Fatimah (A) were to have in her possession a book on legislative matters, it is clear that the Messenger of Allah (i.e. Prophet Mohammad [S]) would have taught it to her (in which case she would have been preserving the legislative commands received by her father from Gabriel).

So, now that we know that Allah - by way of Gabriel - spoke these words to Lady Fatimah (A) and that Imam 'Ali (A) wrote them down, it comes to mind to ask why this Mushaf is associated with Lady Fatimah (A)? After all, she was neither its author nor its scribe!

In response, it must be said that it was intended for her as a consolation and because ofher it was descended from heaven. It is inthis sense that it bears her name as Mushaf Fatimah. This can be seen in the way that the Torah is attributed to Moses (A), the Gospel to Jesus (A) or the Psalms to David (A). In the same sense, in the Quran it says, “Most surely this (message) is in the earlier scriptures, the scriptures of Ibrahim and Musa صُحُفِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَمُوسَى).” ( 87:18-19 )

Even though these scriptures came from Allah because theywere revealed for a particular prophet, it bears his name.

Contents of Mushaf Fatimah

Thereare several narration regarding the content of Mushaf Fatimah, some negating others affirming what the contents are (or are not) such as the following:

Negation of Content

The narrations from the Ahl al-Bayt say that Mushaf Fatimahis not compromised of two things: Qur'aan, and legislative matters. Thisis concluded from the following narrations:

“It is not the Quran.” 18

“I do not posit that it is the Quran.” 19

“Nothing of the Quran is in it.” 20

“Nothing of the book of Allah is in it.” 21

“It does not contain a single verse from the book of Allah.” 22

“It doesn't contain a single word from the Quran.” 23

“There is not a single word from your Quran in it.” 24

In Bihaar al-Anwaar, 'Allamah Majlisi relates a narration in Khati's Jawaame' al-Fawaa'id from Abu Basir: “Imam al-Sadiq (A) read this ayah as so:

سَأَلَ بِعَذَابٍ وَاقِعٍ لِّلْكَافِرينَ) بولاية علي( لَيْسَ لَهُ دَافِعٌ

(سَائِلٌhas been omitted from the hadith) “The questioner asks about the punishment which will befall the unbelievers (theImam( a.s) adds as commentary, this means) the guardianship of 'Ali(a.s) - it shall not be averted.” (70:1-2).25 Then theImam( a.s) said, 'Such a thing is in Mushaf Fatimah.'” However, itmust be said that this hadith is not authentic. Mohammad bin Sulayman Daylami feels that the chain (of narrators) is weak.26

This would contradict all the other hadith that say that Mushaf Fatimah not only does not contain verses of the Quran,but not even a single word (of the noble verses). The reason that this narration is not accepted is not because it implies a distortion (tahrif) of the Quran - because it does not imply that. It is not for the fact that the Imam adds “the guardianship of Imam'Ali( a.s)” (as commentary) because this is the circumstance of its revelation. Some of the narrations in the Sunni corpus of hadith also mention the same events. In one of the [Sunni] books of reference, Mohammad Abu Zahra says in his book that Mushaf Fatimah does not contain anything from the Quran.27

All this confirmation and repeated denial of the existence of any Quranic material in Mushaf Fatimah leads us to conclude that in the time of ImamsBaqir( a.s) and Sadiq(a.s)28 “Mushaf” was widely used to mean “the Quran”. One wonders why the Imams still used “Mushaf” and not “book (كتاب ) of Fatimah”? If they had only called it “book” there wouldn't have been the need for all this clarification and reminder (ofit's uniqueness separate from the Quran). Inresponse it must be said that due to the fact that the Mushaf of that noble lady originated with Allah and was called “Mushaf Fatimah” and at that time “Mushaf” did not carry the connotation of “Quran”, it was still referred to by that name even in later times.

Imam Ali(a.s) referred to Fatimah's book as “Mushaf”: “A Mushaf was given to my wife laden with unprecedented knowledge granted to no one else.” 29

Even if we were to accept that the name “Mushaf” was chosen later - and at a time when the term was used for the Quran - it would have been to show the similarity in origin between the two books: they were both brought down by the ArchangelGabriel( a.s), although in content they differ.

The Mushaf does not contain Legal Rulings

Regarding legal rulings, Imam al-Sadiq(a.s) says “there's nothing in it regarding the permissible and impermissible”30 even though others like Seyyed Haashim Ma'ruf al-Husayni said that Mushaf Fatimah contained rulings of the permissible and impermissible. However it must be said that this particular point is in reference to the jafr abyadh, the “white jafr”.31 Imam al-Sadiq( a.s) says “Truly, the white jafr is in my possession.” The narrator then asked, “What does it contain?” “The Psalms of David, the Torah of Moses, the Gospel of Jesus, the Scrolls of Ibrahim what is permitted and what is forbidden and Mushaf Fatimah. Idon't claim that anything of the Quran in it. In it is what people need from us and that (is because) we do not have any need of anyone. In it is even the whole lash,32 half lash and the quarter lash, even the indemnity for scratching (someone).33

Thus, with respect to clarifying the content of the white jafr, the Imam, at his command, says, “In the white jafr is there is this and that.

This hadith, along with the one from Imam al-Ridha( a.s), confirms that in enumerating the contents of the white jafr - in the manner that al-Sadiq(a.s) has - they (the Imams) considered Mushaf Fatimah to be something else altogether. ImamRidha( a.s), enumerating the proofs (hajaat) of an Imam's Imamate, says, “And with him is the greater jafr (al-jafr al-akbar) and the lesser jafr (al-jafr al-asghar)…and he also possesses Mushaf Fatimah.34

Its Contents Proven

The narration were made and transmitted under various circumstances and do not describe the entire content of Mushaf Fatimah (in one single narration) only some of it. The numerous narration, from variable sources, state that Mushaf Fatimah contains the following: “It tells of her father and his (exalted) position,”35 “It speaks of what will occur after her amongst her offspring,”10 “But also in it is the knowledge of what will happen, and events that will occur. For example, Atheist will appear in the year 123 AH (as an intellectual movement),”36 “The names of every prophet and is successors is in the book I possess,”37 “The names of those who rule and the duration of their rule…and their fathers′ names - and its inscription is with us,”38 “The last will and testament of Fatimah is in it.” 39

This is the entire content of Mushaf Fatimah from the reliable hadith transmitted to us that we have laid our handsupon . However, there is one more hadith from Tabari in is Dalaa′il al-Imamah which details another matter contained in Mushaf Fatimah to which he refers. Unfortunately, the chain of this hadith is weak. In thissense we can't count it to be amongst the miscellaneous matters of the Mushaf. Abu Basir says,

I asked [Imam al-Baqir( a.s), the fourth Imam] about Mushaf Fatimah and he said, 'It was brought to her after the death of her father.'I said, 'Is there anything from the Quran in it?' 'There is nothing in the Quran in it,' he replied. 'Clarify the matter for me.' 'Its front and back covers are made of ruby (zabarjad sorkh).' 'May I be yoursacrifice! What are its pages made of?' 'The pages are of white pearl.' 'May I be your ransom, what is in it?' 'News of what happened and what will happen until the Day of Judgment.News of celestial occurrences, the number of angels in the heavenly abode, the number of all Allah′s creatures - messengers and non-messengers - their names and the names of all the people of their respective nations to whom they were sent, the names of those who gave lie to their message and those who answered to the call (to righteousness), the names of all Allah′s creatures - believers and non-believers - the names of all towns and the particulars of each town in the East and West, the number of believers and non-believers in each town, the particulars of those who belied religion, and of the particulars of men and their tales from the first centuries, the debaucherous rulers and the duration of their rule, the names and details of each Imam and the period of their Imamate…

In the Mushaf is the name of everyone Allah created and the time of their death, the number and details of those bound for heaven, the number of people going to hellfire; also in the Mushaf is knowledge of the Quran - whatever was brought down in it, and of the Torah - whatever was brought down in it, and knowledge of the gospel of Jesus(a.s)40 - whatever was brought down in it, and knowledge of the Psalms, the number of trees and their movements in every town…It was the second 1/3 of the nit, on a Friday evening when Allah sent Gabriel(a.s), Mika′il(a.s), and Israfil(a.s) to [Lady Fatima(a.s)] to revealed Mushaf to her. She was in the middle of (superogatory) prayer. The angels stood (watching and waiting for her prayer to end) until se sat down. Once she ad completed her prayer and had left that state (of deep concentration), they gave her salutations.

They said, 'Salaam. Allah also sends His salaams.' Then they set the book down in her room. She said, 'Salaam to Allah, peace is from Him and is due unto Him. And peacebe unto you, oh angels of Allah!' Subsequently the angels alighted to the heavens, andlady Zahra (i.e. Fatima) read the Mushaf after morning prayer until she reached the end of it. It was obligatory for Lady Zahra to have knowledge of all the creature of Allah, of the jinn and men, of bird and beast, of prophets and angels.' 'May I be yourransom! After Lady Zahra, to whose ands did the Mushaf pass?' 'She gave it to the Command of the Faithful (i.e. ImamAli( a.s)). After him, (it was given) toHasan( a.s) then Husein(a.s), and after that to those worthy of it (i.e. the other Imams, offspring of Imam Husein(a.s) and Bibi Shahr Banu) so that they may give it to the Master of the affair (Imam Mahdi(a.s), the 12th and final Imam and savior of humanity).' 'There is so much knowledge in the Mushaf!' 'Oh Abu Mohammad, what I have told you is contained in the first2 pages. I have not told you anything of the rest!'

Of what we have reproduced here is of the hadith with a weak chain of narration andis not well documented .

The Number and Bulk of the Pages of the Mushaf

Imam al-Sadiq( a.s) says, The Mushaf, of what is in it, is like the Quran, only 3 times larger.41

It's possible that the Imam wasn't comparing the physical size of the book in the same way that sometimes numbers are used to refer to magnitude and multiplicity, as in the verse,

Even if you seek forgiveness 70 times Allah will not forgive them; this is because they disbelieve in Allah and His apostle, and Allah does not guide the transgressing people.( 9:80)

Obviously, the point of this verse is that the hypocriteswould never be forgiven ; the point is not that if the prophet were to seek forgiveness for them more than 70 times (that they would be forgiven). No matter how many times they were to seek forgiveness (while in a state of hypocrisy) theywould not be forgiven (In other words, the number seventy is allusion to an innumerable repetition and not a literal numeric.)

Notes

1. For example, the famous du’a named “Kumayl” recited every Thursdaywas not authored by Kumayl ibn Ziyad, but taught to him, by Imam ‘Ali (a.s). Itis called the du’a of Kumayl because it was gifted to him due to his devotion to the Ahl al-Bayt. In truth, its authorship is attributed to hadhrat Khidr (a.s), and was taught to Imam‘Ali( a.s) by the prophet Mohammad (s.a.w).So , it’s not a leap of understanding to say that what is called “Mushaf Fatimah” was named after Lady Fatimah (a.s) as the person to whom it was gifted, and not as an attribution of authorship.

2. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.240, hadith #2; also in Majlisi, M. Bihaar al-Anwaar, v.26, p.44, hadith #77.

3. Al-Tabari, Dalaa’il al-A’immah, p. 30, Aa’lami publications, Beirut, 1403 AH/1983 AD, and, Sheikholislami SH, Musnad Fatimat al-Zahra, p. 199, Daar al-Qur’aan al-Karim publications, Qom, 1412 AH/1992.

4. Najashi, Rijaal Najashi, v.1, p.302.

5. Khu’i, Ma’jam rijaal al-hadith, v.4, p.117.

6. When it is says that Allah says something, it is not by agency of tongue, or by words or even tones. Allah does not have or need physicality to communicate. The words used to describe Allah’s communication with humans are a metaphor due to our limitations of understanding. Imam Musa al-Kadhim( a.s) says, “[Allah] has neither body nor any sort of limitation.Each and every thing, except Allah, is a thing created by Allah. He creates things as He wills and desires, without any word or planning in the mind or without any utterance by the tongue (because he has not tongue).”Al-Kafi, v.1, p.106, hadith #289.

7. Majlis MB, Bihar al-Anwaar, v.36, p.39, hadith #70.

8. The author goes into a discussion of ‘Arabic grammar which is omitted by the translator as it is not germane to the discussion for English readers.

9. The reader should not be surprised to read that LadyFatimah( a.s) received inspiration. Inspiration meansbeing spoken to by angels. Al-Ahwal narrates, “I asked [Imam al-Kadhim] about messengers, prophets, and those who are spoken to (muhaddath). He said, ‘A messenger (rasul) is one before whom the angel Gabriel comes; [the messenger] sees him and [Gabriel] speaks with him; such is a messenger. A prophet (nabi) is one who sees in his dreams as with the dreams of prophet Abraham (A)…One who is muhaddath is one who is spoken to and who hears but he does not see [the angel Gabriel] with the eyes or in his dreams.”Al-Kafi, v.2, hadith #441. Besides the mother of prophet Moses(a.s), prophet Abaraham’s(a.s) wife also heard the angels speaking when the came to her husband 11:69-73 as was Maryam(a.s), mother of Jesus(a.s) (19:17-19). TheImams( a.s) were also muhaddath, as were others, such as Salman al-Farsi. Some traditions relate that ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab was also muhaddath. Refer to chapter 5, Angelic discourse with those who are not prophets, for a full discussion.

10. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.245, hadith #2.

11. Gabriel is an angel, but, as thearch-angel , sometimes he is referred to separately even when speaking of other angels. For example, if you say, “The president and the elected officials of the state. .” youdon’t mean to imply that the president is not elected but other are. They are all elected officials, but the president’s singular role deserves separate mention. Some people feel that the “ruh” or “ruh al-Quddus” (holy spirit ) mentioned in the Quran is really the angel Gabriel as in “The angels and the spirit descend in [this night] by the permission of their Lord for every affair” (97:4).

12. Safaar, Basa’ir al-Darajaat, p.153, hadith #6, and Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.241, hadith #5.

13. Majlis MB, Bihar al-Anwaar, v.26, p.46, hadith #96.

14. The angels are described in general as messengers: 22:75, 35:1, and as messengers of death: 6:61, 7:37, and messengers of revelation and inspiration: 11:69, 19:17-19, and in many other verses.

15. Every divine communication with man is by Allah, sometimes directly as with the case of the prophetMoses( a.s) and the prophet Mohammad(s.a.w) on is night journey, or indirectly through the angel Gabriel as with all the other prophets and the Imams.

16. Amin M, A’ayan al-Shi’ah, v.1, p.314, Al-Insaaf publication, Beirut.

17. Only Messengers receive legislative commands; neither prophets, nor Imams nor muhadatheen can receive legislative commands from Allah, only revelation (prophets) or inspirations (Imams, muhadatheen).

18. Majlisi M, Bihaar al-Anwaar, v.26, pp.41-42, hadith #73.

19. Ibid, v.26, p.45, hadith #3.

20. Ibid, v.26, p. 45, hadith #79.

21. Ibid, v.26, p. 43, hadith #39.

22. Ibid, v.47, p.271, hadith #3.

23. Ibid, v.47, p.46, hadith #5.

24. Ibid, v.26, p.39, hadith #10.

25. This refers to the wilayah of ImamAli( a.s) that was announced by the Prophet of Allah(s.a.w) at al-Ghadir al-Khum in front of thousands upon thousands of Muslims returning from pilgrimage. A man named Harith ibn Numan al-Fahri accused theProphet( s.a.w) of nepotism. TheProphet( s.a.w) strenuously denied this, stating that Allah had chosen ‘Ali(a.s) as the leaders of the Muslims after him. Harith rebuked the prophet and, walking away, swore that if this were true that Allah should punish him a painful punishment with a stone. Before he had reached his camel, hewas hit in the head by a stone and died instantly .

26. Daylami M, Mu’ajjam rijaal al-hadith, v.16, p.127; Rijaal Najashi, v.2, p.269.

27. Abu Zahra M. Al-Imam al-Sadiq, hayaatahuwa ‘asrehu, p.324, Matbu’ah Ahmad ‘Ali Mukheimarah, Egypt.

28. The period of their combined Imamates was 51 years, from 95 AH/714 AD- 146 AH/765AD according to Sheikh al-Mufid in Kitaab al-‘Irshaad.

29. Basaa’ir al-Darajaat, v.2, p. 200.

30. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.390, hadith #1.

31. Jafr is a container made of hide. Itis referred to as a type of knowledge as the above hadith suggest. However, the knowledgeis not written on the hide of the jafr. Rather, the jafr contains a series of books, passed on by the Prophet ofAllah( s.a.w) to the Imam ‘Ali(a.s) and from him to each Imam as a mark of their Imamate. Imam al-Sadiq( a.s) says, “By Allah, it is not as they say that there are two jafrs with something written on them. No, by Allah, they are two hides with the hair still on them, crammed full: in one of them books (the white jafr), and in the other the armory of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w) (the red jafr).”(Bihar al-Anwar, v.26, p.38).

32. “Whole”, “half” and “quarter” lash refer to the forcefulness with which a person is flogged. Various public sins in Islam, such as fornication, inebriation, public indecency, etc. have various punishments associated with them such as flogging. The forcefulness and number of lashes depends on the offence and the circumstances. What theImam( a.s) is implying is that Mushaf Fatimah is so comprehensive that even the most mundane legislative matters are addressed.

33. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.24, Chapter 40, hadith #3, and, Majlisi, MB. Bihar al-Anwaar, v.26, p.37, hadith #43.

34. Sadduq, Ma’aani al-Akhbaar, p.102. Daarul Ma’aarif, Beirut, 1979.

35. Majlisi M, Bihaar al-Anwaar, v.26, pp.41, hadith #72.

36. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.24, hadith #2, and, Majlisi, MB. Bihar al-Anwaar, v.26, p.13, hadith #1.

37. Majlisi, MB.Bihar al-Anwaar, v.47, p.32.

38. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.242, hadith #3, and, Majlisi, MB. Bihar al-Anwaar, v.46, p.13, hadith #1.

39. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.24, hadith #4.

40. The Injil, or, gospel ofJesus( a.s), is different from the canonical books assembled in the New Testament. The gospel of Jesus was the divine message tat the prophet Jesus(a.s) delivered to is people, and was not recorded by the Jewish followers of Jesus (i.e. the early Christians), nor do Muslims possess it in whole. Regardless, whatis in the New Testament, by admission of its compilers in the 4th century AD is the gospel of Jesus according to… and not the gospel itself.

41. Kulayni, M. Usul al-Kaafi, v.1, p.239, hadith #3 and, Majlisi, MB. Bihar al-Anwaar, v.26, p.39, hadith #10.

Mushaf Fatimah and the Mushaf of the Companions

Similarities of the Mushafs (of Fatimah and those of the Companions)

The similarity of Mushaf Fatimah with those that the Ahl al-Sunnah count (amongst their corpus) - such as those of A'ishah, Hafsah, and 'Abdullah bin Mas'ud - is in name only. The similarity is in name only because their Mushafs are replete with Quranic verses and additional material where as Mushaf Fatimah does not contain a single verse of Quran. Its name Mushaf is only in reference to it being a bound book. It is only by way of ignorance and self-serving interests that the Shi'ahhave been libelously accused of distorting the Quran.1

Their libel is based on the hadith in which Imam al-Sadiq( a.s) says that Mushaf Fatimah is “three times larger than the Quran.” However, he continues to say, “by Allah, there is not a single word from the Quran in it.” The libel of corruption aimed towards the Shia is curious given that in the Sunni Mushafs there are verses of the Quran omitted and other (verses) that have extra words!

1. Mushaf A'ishah

There is a narration in the Sunnibooks which says, “The Quran in A'ishah's possession contained deficiencies not presently found (in the Quran that all Muslims universally agree is authentic and free of errors of omission or commission). For example, after 'Truly Allah and the angels send their blessings unto the prophet,”(33:54) was added, 'and those who pray in the first row2 (of communal prayer).'” 3 (In another hadith it says) “After 'Guard strictly your (habit of) prayers, especially the middle prayer'(2:238) she had, 'and the late afternoon prayer.'” 4 This same matter appears in Hafsah's and Umm Salaamah's Mushafs. We will refrain from mentioning other examples.

2. Mushaf 'Abdullah bin Mas'ud

As recorded by the Sunnis, as per their own authentic sources, and according to Suyuti's interpretation, it says that Ibn Mas'ud believed tat surahs al-Falaq (113:1-5) and al-Naass (114:1-5) were not part of the Quran

because it is a supplication (du'a).What's more amazing is that he thought the same of al-Fatihah (1:1-7). Because of this, Uthmaan5 burned his Mushaf.6

3. Mushaf Ubai bin K'ab

In placeof ” lilaldheen yu'lun” [Ubai] would recite, “lilldheen yaqsimun”, and instead of “falaa jannaaH 'alahi inn yaTuf bihuma” he would recite, “illa yaTuf bihuma”, etc.7

In the Sunniresources it has been said that some of the canonical verses are deficient. For example, “the verse of rijm (16:98),8 the verse of jihad (9:29),9 the verse of shahaadah (5:67),10 ,11 the verse of wilayaayah of 'Ali (5:55),12 etc.

It is important to note that both the Shi'i and Sunni sects consider the Quranto be free from distortion or error. The unusual or conflicting hadith are not reliable (in their authenticity). Among the Sunnis, 'Abd al-Rahmaan Jaziri in Al-fiqh 'ala al-madhhab al-arba'aah13 and Zarkushi in

Al-Burhaan fi 'ulum al-Quran,14 and… This matterhas already been discussed . The Shi'i scholars alsodon't accept that the Quran is deficient or has been distorted. Once can point to Sheikh al-Sadduq in Al-'Itiqaadaat15 and Sheikh al-Mufid in Awaa'il al-maqaalaat,16 etc.

Tafsir, Tahrif, Hadith Qudsi

Regarding that of which we spoke, there are many phrases and passages in the Qurna that have a meaning beneath the external meaning. It is the explanation of these phrases that we call tafsir, or, exegesis.

ImamHusayn( a.s) said to his enemies, “You have made tahrif (distorted) on the book of Allah (i.e. the Quran).”What he meant by this is the meaning of the Book (had been distorted) against the Divine intent.

Occasionally speeches were recorded that were hadith qudsi, (Divine speech), but were not counted as verses of the Quran.17

Notes

1. Al-Seraa’ bayn al-Islaamwa al-muthniyyah, v.1, p.D, Matba’a al-Salafiyyah, Cairo, 1354.

2. The first row of communal prayeris reserved for those with greater knowledge and piety. The reason for this is that if the prayer leader were to suddenly fall ill, or, make a mistake in the prayer, or, loose his ritual purity (tahharah), someone in the front row would have to fill in and continue the prayer without any discontinuity. It is likely that people like A’ishah’s father, Abu Bakr, as an early covert to Islam and wealthy benefactor of the religion, sat in the front row of prayer.

3. Al-Masaahif, p.34, Matba’ah al-Rahmaaniyyah, 1st edition, and, Aalusi, Ruh al-ma’aani, v.1, p.25, Daar Ahyaa’ al-taraath al-‘Arabi, and, Al-Durr al-manthur, v.5, p.220, Mohammad Amin Damaj publication.

4. Al-musannaf, v.1, p.537, hadith #2201, Al-majlis al-‘a’lami publication, and, Al-durr al-manthur, v.1, p.302.

5. Uthmaanbin ‘Affaan was the 3rd Caliph. Itis widely and incorrectly considered that Uthmaan was the first to collect the Quran in a bound manuscript. ImamAli( a.s) was the first to do so. We will mention the relevant hadith later in the text. Uthmaan, however, was the first to collect all extant Qurans, fragmentary or whole, destroy them and issue an authoritative Quran compiled and approved by a “blue ribbon panel” which was then copied and distributed to various centers around the Islamic world which has growing rapidly in all directions away from Medina.

6. Al-durr al-manthur, v.4, p.414, “A discussion on the history of the Quran and its sciences”, and, Majlisi M, Bihaar al-Anwaar, v.92, p343.

7. Al-Mushaf, v.1, p.131, and, Al-Itiqaan, v.1, p.47, Daar al-Fikr, and, Ruh al-Ma’aani, v.1, p.25.

8. Al-Masaahif, p.33; Akdabubah, Tahrif al-Quraan, p.43, and, Al-I’tiqaan, v.1, p.41.

9. Al-I’tiqaan, v.2, p.25.

10. Muslim, A. Sahih Muslim, tr. A.H. Siddiqui, v.2, p.724, Kitab Bhavan; 2000.

11. The author appears to be referring to hadiths no. 438-440. They are similar in content; no. 438 reads in part, “…[ Uthman said] By Allah, I am narrating to you a hadith. If there were not a verse in the Book of Allah, I would have never narrated it to you…”

12. Al-durr al-manthur, v.2, p.293.

13. Jaziri, AR, Al-fiqh ‘ala al-madhhab al-arba’aah, v.4, p.24, Daar Ahyaa’ al-taraath al-‘Arabi publications, Beirut.

14. Zarkushi. Al-Burhaan fi ‘ulum al-Quran, v.2, p.253, Daar al-Ma’rifah, Beirut.

15. Al-Sadduq, Al-‘Itiqaadaat, p.84, Al-Mu’tamar al-‘Aalamin, Qom.

16. Mufid, Awaa’il al-maqaalaat, p.81, Al-Mu’tamar al-‘Aalamin, Qom.

17. Sayyid Sharif Jurjani says: “[Hadith-i qudsi] is from God, the Most Exalted, from the point of view of meaning, and from theProphet( s.a.w) from the viewpoint of actual wording. It constitutes what God has communicated to theProphet( s.a.w) through revelation or in dreams. TheProphet( s.a.w) informed others of its meaning in his own words. Accordingly, the Qur'an is superior to the hadith-i qudsi, because it is the actual Word of God.” Quoted in Outlines of the development of the science of hadith, M. Awliya’I, Al-Towhid, vols.1-3.