Alhassanain(p) Network for Heritage and Islamic Thought

Dedication

In the Name of Allah the Compassionate the Merciful

Allah did choose Adam and Noah, the family of Abraham, and the family of Imran above all people; offspring, one of the other: And Allah heareth and knoweth all things.

(3:33-34)

And Allah only wishes to remove all abomination from you, ye members of the Family, and to make you pure and spotless.

(33:33)

Say: No reward do I ask of you for this except the love of those near of kin. And if any one earns any good, We shall give him an increase of good in respect thereof: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Ready to appreciate.

(42:23)

********

To the inspired, creative mind in the Islamic world…

To the conscience of humanity and the leader of social justice…

To the trustee of the Holy Prophet (S) and the gate of science, Imam Ali (as)…

I dedicate this collection, which is about the life of his successor, Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (as) who filled the world with knowledge and science.

Hope that this piece of work will be accepted and wish it to be a reward from Allah (SwT) at the day when meeting His Majesty.

The Author

Preface

Imam al-Sadiq (as), the most prominent scientific character in the human history, is well known for his intelligence and creativity, which we cannot find an end or a limit to. This talented Imam brought the source of information and wisdom back to earth and filled the world with his knowledge and sciences as al-Jahiz, a famous Arab man of letters, once said.

The Imams and leaders of the schools of Muslim jurisprudence are among those getting benefits from his knowledge and his legislative works. We can still see the effects of his highly new scientific achievements, especially in the field of religious instructions such as acts of worship and transactions, which are the sources of jurisprudents in their religious inferences. Additionally, his knowledge has been used by master scholars of law in the field of legislation.

This great intelligent figure holds positive and active share in the establishment of human culture and civilization as well as improving general public lives and enhancing human thoughts. This was achieved by means of his advanced technological discoveries and inventions that led human beings ahead in all aspects of life. He was among those who discovered oxygen as well as its properties and constitutions. He also declared that air was not a simple element, but it is composed of various elements.1

He also discovered many of the secrets of the universe that Western scholars and scientists have then confessed through their research in the books of Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) student, Jabir ibn Hayyan, the great chemist and the source of pride in the east, whose writing works are available in many Western libraries until now.2

Western scholars have considered Imam al-Sadiq (as) an intellectual and creative mind in humanitarian issues. It is also noteworthy that some of Orientalists have claimed that Imam al-Sadiq (as) was from the West, but he then migrated to the East, because they believed that eastern people do not possess such a scientific superiority like the one owned by the Imam (as). It was hidden from those who claimed this statement that he was from a prophetic family that was granted the privilege of having high knowledge on the earth.

Imam al-Sadiq (as) had very much attention to the distribution of science, culture and the crystallization of the Islamic thoughts in various aspects. His great university, which was seen as a place for one of the most important events of that time, elevated the scientific level; extended the cultural knowledge; provided the necessary prerequisite of the nations’ advancement through the publication of different scientific and intellectual waves throughout the Islamic world and the surrounding regions.

The scientific revolution in the Abbasidd era was considered to be the result of the Imam’s (as) university. In addition to that, some researchers believe that the technological advancement and the high industrial upgrading of the modern countries at that period were based, to some extent, on the findings and brilliant heritage of Jabir ibn Hayyan, the student of Imam al-Sadiq (as), in the fields of chemistry and physics, which are considered the foundations of today’s scientific revolution.

Anyway, in this book, the Imam’s university is presented in a comprehensive, subject-based method. Also, the scientific and cultural programs, number of students, fields and all relevant issues will be mentioned in the book.

Imam al-Sadiq (as), in his brilliant lectures and researches, touched the issue of monotheism, which is the forefront of the Islamic thought. He posed the doubts that were arisen around this issue by anti-Islam persons in the intention of spoiling the beliefs of Muslims. The Imam (as) had a steady program to remove their doubts. He cured the monotheism issues by making use of philosophical researches and by referring to sense-based issues that points to self-evident, obvious reasons with no other disputations allowed. So, he reasonably abolished all the doubts set forth around monotheism and proved the originality of the Islamic ideology in all aspects. This book presents a comprehensive view of the Imam’s (as) endeavour and vast knowledge and wisdom in this issue.

Imam al-Sadiq (as) enriched the Islamic thought with his fabulous maxims and comprehensive expressions in all fields of human life that he used to spread among people. These maxims and expressions can be adopted as comprehensive programs and complete instructions to solve all problems of humanity. In addition, the majority of these maxims have been in the highest level of eloquence and fluency; since they have been characterized by beauty of composition, preciseness of writing style and magnificence of statements.

They are thus considered one of the essential resources of Arabic literature and one of the treasures of Muslim heritage. Because of the innumeracy and significance of these maxims, we have allocated a special chapter in the book to them.

Among the brilliant intellectual treasures of Imam al-Sadiq (as), his honourable prayers can be mentioned, which are regarded as equal to the prayer-book of his grandfather, Imam al-Sajjad (as), which is considered as the Bible of Muhammad’s (S) family. Those prayers are evidence for his devotion and adherence to Allah (SwT), in addition to the various spiritual aspects that include moral, social and political issues. He narrated what went on to the people of his era, such as the problems and disasters, which were the results of the cruelty of the ruling authorities of that time who used to force people to do things they disliked to do.

The prayers of Imam al-Sadiq (as) are similar to those of his ancestors and successors. They are all aiming to plant proper characteristics in Muslims’ hearts, refine their behaviours and distribute devoutness and refinements among their communities. Because of the importance of these prayers, we have presented them distinctively in a book entitled “al-Sahifah al-Sadiqiyyah.” This book was submitted to be published before printing the sections of this book.

Imam al-Sadiq (as) established a great, independent, complete and comprehensive methodology for his followers, which dealt with advanced jurisprudence that went well with all eras. He made them independent from other Islamic sects or schools of thought. Their jurisprudence has thus been the most brilliant jurisprudence ever established. Dr. Abd al-Rahman al-Badawi made the following statement:

“Imam al-Sadiq (as) was the same one who organized the Shiah and originated jurisprudential entity thus making it one of the most striking Islamic jurisprudence. He enriched it from the intellectual point of view and deepened its focus for the sake of Allah (SwT) and for the benefit of humanity.”3

This book tries manifesting his honourable jurisprudence in a comprehensive and complete way.

The sources and collections of Hadith (tradition) are full of brilliant set of Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) traditions that were narrated from his great ancestor, the Holy Prophet (S) and the infallible Imams (as), in addition to some other narrations from the customs, behaviours and advices of other prophets (as). These traditions are generally about moral behaviour and proper characteristics that urge Muslims to imitate in order to be masters of human beings and leaders of the world.

We have allocated a special section to this group of traditions in this book.

Among the many available works of this great superhuman, there were a set of medical instructions and medical prescriptions transferred to his medical students. This evinced his proficiency and skill in this science. The late Shaykh Muhammad al-Khalili had written a book in which he mentioned what was derived from the Imam (as) in some medical topics. We will bring some parts of this book later on.

It is worth mentioning that narrators have narrated a collection of traditions in which the Imam (as) discussed the importance of vegetables on human health. We will present some of these topics later in the book too.

It rarely happened that we read a book regarding Quran Interpretations (i.e. Tafsir) without finding an original idea taken from Imam al-Sadiq (as) in interpreting some of the holy verses of Quran. This confirms that Imam al-Sadiq (as) had an important emphasis on interpreting the Holy Quran. So he granted this field of Islamic knowledge a lot of efforts and outcomes as well as considering the task as a teaching program, which he used in turn to pass to his high rank students. If this effort were collected, there would undoubtedly be a comprehensive, self-describing book. We will present the personal interpretation of some of the verses of the Holy Quran in the book.

An important complementary in discussing the life of Imam al-Sadiq (as) is to study the lives of his students in details and to acquaint ourselves with their identities and cultural skills. This research is quite necessary according to modern studies, as it reveals the scientific and cultural life of that period. It also exposes the amount of efforts exerted to distribute the science and the organized operations in having it public among people.

Crowds of students rushed into Yathrib (al-Madinah al-Munawwarh where Imam al-Sadiq (as) used to deliver lectures) to make use of the Imam’s (as) vast knowledge. The number of those students reached to something around four thousands. This large number revealed the capacity of Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) sciences that persuaded students to get what they needed from the diverse fields of knowledge and sciences available.

Yathrib thrived by this scientific faculty. Its golden majesty, which was constructed by the Holy Prophet (S), came back to it. The Islamic world started its expansion by the appearance of scientists and scholars graduated from the University of Imam al-Sadiq (as). They distributed the cultural and scientific awareness among Muslims and exploded the scientific revolution that was one of the most important objectives of Imam al-Sadiq (as) who aimed to reach that stage.

We have brought brief lives of three thousands and six hundred and sixty students of Imam al-Sadiq in this encyclopaedia on the life of the Imam (as). It is worth mentioning that the majority of these students were from the city of al-Kufah (Iraq) to which they came back after they had graduated from the Imam’s (as) University. As a result, they elevated the level of science and established different courses at the University of al-Kufah. As they distributed Imam’s (as) sciences and knowledge, they were surrounded by the youth. This way, al-Kufah became the most outstanding cultural center in Islam.

Imam al-Sadiq (as), with his intelligence and creativity, proved the originality of the fact, the Shiah believe, that Imam (as) should be the most knowledgeable person of his time in a way that no one else might reach his scientific level and capacity of knowledge.

Imam al-Sadiq (as) was the sole person in the whole history that had such a wide scientific capacity, while he neither attend any school nor did he study under any teacher.

So, from where did this advancement and progress, which made his mind illuminated, come?

There should be an acknowledgement to what the Shiah believe to the fact that Ahl al-Bayt (The family of the Holy Prophet (S)) were granted this knowledge and eloquence from Allah (SwT) in the same way as He, the Majestic, granted His messengers (as) and Prophets (as). In this, there is no exaggeration or deviation from the criteria of the truth, especially after the availability of original proofs, which will be clearly demonstrated in this book.

Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) characteristics and personality stand in for the best example of nobility of character and high moral standards, such as forbearance, generosity, mercy and self-denial. As for nobility of character, he has reached the highest level of morality to which his great ancestor - namely, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (S) who excelled all other prophets (as) in this field - reached.

Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) morality was a grant from Allah (SwT) Who endued him with such characteristics so that he could be the guide and the leader of the nation in its cultural and intellectual revolution.

The huge quantity of excellent mannerisms that the Prophethood-descending Imam (as) enjoyed made him in the forefront of all Muslim leaders in rank and position throughout history.

Allah (SwT) has granted this Imam (as) such supreme levels of tender-heartedness, precise feeling and high morality that no one has seen before; as if he was an angel that came down to the earth to fill it with prosperity, justice and mercy.

This book aims at presenting a comprehensive, live and distinguished form of the attributes and moral behaviour of Imam al-Sadiq (as).

One of the unique characteristics of Imam al-Sadiq (as) is his tendency to pray and devotion to Allah (SwT). Therefore, he used to spend his leisure time glorifying Allah (SwT) and reciting His Book. Malik ibn Anas was astonished with the prayers of Imam al-Sadiq (as) as he went on saying with wonder and surprise:

“When I was running into Jafar ibn Muhammad (al-Sadiq), I never saw him in a situation other than the following three ones: praying, fasting or reciting Quran.”

The Imam (as) resorted to Allah (SwT) and worshiped him honestly; he did only that what would take him closer to Allah (SwT). This book will bring some selections of his prayers.

One of the researches of this book is discussion of the age in which Imam al-Sadiq (as) grew up.

A research should necessarily be conducted comprehensively regarding the social, economical and political situations of that time. Therefore, discussing that era has become one of the most principled methodologies in studying the life and biography of a person. The era in which the Imam (as) lived was full of important and affecting events.

The social life of his time is one of the most controversial issues; the boundaries of the Islamic world were encompassed by terrifying problems as ordeals and afflictions. These were the result of the different parties’ struggles to win authority and power. Therefore, various seditious matters and riots overshadowed Muslims who, gradually, strayed off their religion.

Imam al-Sadiq (as) had a decisive decision in dealing with political conflicts; he avoided engaging himself in any political conflict. He therefore retired to distributing science and knowledge among people.

This book presents comprehensive details about the Imam’s (as) attitude to the political events of that time.

Another phenomenon that characterized the age of Imam al-Sadiq (as) was the appearance of diverse Muslim sects such as the following: al-Mutazilah, al-Ashairah, al-Khawarij, al-Kaysaniyyah, al-Zaydiyyah and many others.

Conflicts amongst these sects attained its climax in tension and violence. Every sect had its own meetings and assemblies in which they discussed and tried to prove the accuracy of their own tenets. They tried to invite people to their opinions.

The ruling authority adopted the ideas of certain sects and forced people to embrace their opinions as it ordered the judges to judge according to the jurisprudential ideas of these sects, because they acted as trumpets for the ruling authority.

Imam al-Sadiq (as), alongside his top students, confronted and refuted the claims of these sects, which were in contrast with the fact of Islam.

This book explains thoroughly all the details of this issue.

This book tends to demonstrate the life accounts of the rulers and governors who were contemporaries of Imam al-Sadiq (as) as well as the events that took place between these rulers and the Imam (as) without taking side with any specific group or taking anyone’s part. Our aim is to be sincere to the truth, without mixing it with any sort of sectarian imitation or fancy.

We have to highlight the historical documents, as they are considered backbones of historical researches, to spare no effort in studying them and to infer the resulting facts, so not to follow a wrong path. The history is filled with various subjects that could cause concealment of the truth from the sights of many writers and researchers.

After this brief introduction about some of the studies in the book, I would like to indicate that in spite of the book’s comprehensiveness, it would not narrate, in a definite way, all the traditions of Imam al-Sadiq (as), as it did not collect his knowledge-based and scientific works wholly. The book only takes a short glance at some of his characteristics, which are considered part of the unlimited intellectual and scientific treasures of the world.

I hope that I have presented a simple, modest service in this collection to Imam al-Sadiq (as), whom Allah (SwT) granted wisdom, intelligence, chastity and straightness - attributes that made him one of the greatest leading figures of Muslims, the most dutiful towards his religion and the most desirous to revive Allah’s (SwT) Book and the Prophet’s (S) customs in words and deeds. I ask Allah (SwT) to aid us to reach success and to grant us the rewards.

Before finishing this introduction, it is necessary to express my gratitude to the great Allamah Shaykh Hadi (may Allah (SwT) save him) for his efforts in reviewing the historical texts from which I have benefited in authoring this collection, in addition to his valuable notes that he made. May Allah (SwT) grant him more rewards! Also, I would like to express my thanks to His eminence Hujjat al-Islam wal-Muslimin Shaykh Husayn al-Khalifah for motivating me to document the biographies of the Holy Imams (as). May Allah (SwT) reward him duly. It is only Almighty Allah (SwT) Who is able to do so.

Baqir Sharif al-Qarashi

Notes

1.Refer to al-Imam al-Sadiq Kama Arafahou Ulama al-Gharb (Imam al-Sadiq (as) as Known by Western Scholars), by A Group of Authors, pp. 120-130.

2.We will present the writings of Jabir ibn Hayyan in details within his biography in the chapter of this book on the biographies of Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) companions.

3.Abd al-Rahman Badawi, Dirasat Islamiyyah.

The Shining of the Light

Before speaking about the birth of Imam al-Sadiq (as) as well as the religious traditions immediately following his birth, let us speak about the Imam’s (as) generous family and the shining sources from which he ramified.

The Respected Family

Imam al-Sadiq (as) is from a respected, generous family; it is the most brilliant and famous family in the Arab and Islamic world; the family that gave birth to Muhammad (S), the Seal of the Prophets and the Chief of the Messengers, may Allah (SwT) bless him and his family; it is the family that gave birth to those great Imams (as) and master scholars.

This family has kept the role of destination for Muslims’ hearts, the center of Divine revelations and the core of the sound of the truth that reverberate on the sand of deserts, valleys of mountains, and versants of hillocks to act as light on all shores and gulfs from sunrise to sunset.

The great master of Arabs, Abd al-Muttalib (ar), stated the following about that family:

The glory does not descend except in our houses

as sleep does not rest except in quiet eyes

In his famous panegyric on the leader of the dutiful and the chief of all worshippers (of Allah); namely, Imam Zayn al-Abidin (as), the great Arab poet, al-Farazdaq, composed the following:

He who recognizes Allah (SwT) will recognize the priority of this one

For glory, which all nations may gain, has come out from his house.

From this family that Almighty Allah (SwT) has endued with favour and is always present in the hearts and emotions of Muslims, Imam al-Sadiq (as) appeared in the nation as the founder of its intellectual and scientific revolution. He inherited the brilliant characteristics of the prominent members in this family and was great indeed in his manner and behaviour.

The Father

Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) father was Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (as) who was not only the master of the Muslim nation in his time, but also in all times throughout history as much as honesty and religiousness are concerned. There was no one amongst the sons of Imam al-Hasan (as) and Imam al-Husayn (as) who were familiar with sciences, customs, Quran, literature and rhetoric as much as Imam al-Baqir (as) was.1

This Imam (as) had an important role in activating the sources of knowledge and wisdom in the world. He also positively participated in progressing human mind. This is quite apparent through looking at what was published in various sciences at the hands of this Imam (as). Later in the book, we will discuss some cases.

The world shone with this great new-born, who was a branch of the prophetic tree. The poet says:

If the new-born is born in this family

The world celebrates and the platforms are shaken

He was from the mine of wisdom and knowledge and from a household that

Allah (SwT) removed all dirties from and made pure:

If there had been a famous glory before them

You would have found it many miles behind them

If you come to them, you will see in their houses

Such unparalleled generosity that saves you from begging

The light of Prophethood and items of honour are found in them

Never extinguished in both aged and infants.2

The Mother

The mother of Imam al-Sadiq (as) is a well-mannered, honest woman called Umm Farwah, the daughter of al-Qasim3 ibn Muhammad ibn Abi-Bakr4 , a master jurisprudent. She was a lady of illustrious chastity, nobility and virtuousness. She grew up in the house of her father, one of the brilliant, virtuous personalities of his age.

She learnt jurisprudence and Islamic knowledge from her husband, Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (as); as she was among the most virtuous women and was considered the authoritative source for women in their religious affairs. It is enough to say that she was the mother of the greatest of all leaders of Muslims. Her husband, as well as the rest of her family members, used to treat her with glorification and respect.

A short time after the marriage of Umm Farwah with Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (as), she became pregnant. Glad tidings prevailed in the members of the family of Ali (as) who were expecting the coming of this new-born as same as expecting the shining of the sun. After the gleaming of the world with the birth of the new-born, the midwife hurried to the father, but she could not find him at home.

However, she found the grandfather, Imam Zayn al-Abidin (as), and congratulated him for the new-born. He became happy and delighted; because he knew that this new-born would renew the religious outlines and revive the traditions of his great ancestor, Prophet Muhammad (S). The midwife informed the grandfather that the new-born had nice blue eyes. He smiled and said, “His eyes looked like my mother’s eyes.”5

Imam Zayn al-Abidin (as) went to the room to get his grandson and kissed him. Afterwards, he performed the religious birth customs and began whispering adhan (call to prayer) in the newborn’s left ear and Iqamah (prefatory statement of prayer) in his right ear.

The first thing in the life of Imam al-Sadiq (as) was the reception of his grandfather who was the noblest person on the earth as he whispered the eternal poem of Islam to the newborn’s ears:

“Allah (SwT) is the greatest…”

“There is no god but Allah (SwT)…”

So, he was fed with these words, which are the secret of the existence, to be his hymn in his future life.

Naming

His respected name is “Jafar.” Many historians stated that the Holy Prophet (S) gave him this name as well as the nickname “Sadiq (veracious).”

His Nicknames

His nicknames reveal his great characteristics and striking personality:

(1) Al-Sadiq (the veracious): His great grandfather, the Holy Prophet (S), nicknamed him this way, because he would be the most honest person in speeches and talks6 . It was mentioned that Mansour al-Dawaneeqi, the Imam’s (as) bitterest enemy, used this nickname for Imam al-Sadiq (as). The reason, according to what narrators said, was that Abu Muslim al-Khurasani once asked Imam al-Sadiq (as) to lead him to the grave of his grandfather Imam Ali (as), but he refused and informed that this fact (the location of the grave) would be disclosed in the reign of a Hashimite man called Abu Jafar al-Mansour. When Abu Muslim revealed this prediction during al-Mansour’s reign on al-Rusafah (the left side of River Tigris in Baghdad); he became happy and said: “He is true veracious (i.e. Sadiq).”7

(2) Al-Sabir (the steadfast): He was called this way, because he had to suffer steadfastly severe disasters at the hands of his enemies; the Abbasidd and Umayyad rulers.8

(3) Al-Fadhil (the virtuous): He was called so, because he was the best and the most knowledgeable of the people of his time not only in religious affairs but also in all scientific fields.9

(4) Al-Tahir (the pure): He was nicknamed so because he was the purest in mannerism, behaviour and tendencies.10

(5) Amoud al-Sharaf (the pole of honour): Imam al-Sadiq (as) was the pole of honour and the epitome of pride and glory for all Muslims.11

(6) Al-Qaim (the undertaker of the mission): As much as I believe, the Imam (as) was given this nickname because he was the one who undertook the mission of reviving the true religion and defending the law of the Chief of Messengers (i.e. the Holy Prophet (S)).12

(7) Al-Kafil (the supporter): He was nicknamed so, because he was the supporter of the poor, orphans and needy and he was in the custom of assisting them by spending for their needs.13

(8) Al-Munji (the saviour): He was nicknamed so, because he was the saviour from gloom of straying off. He thus guided anyone who would refuge to him and save anyone who would contact him.14

These were some of his nicknames that reveal some of his characteristics and features of his personality.

His Surnames

The surnames (i.e. kunyah) of Imam al-Sadiq (as) were:

1. Abu Abdullah,

2. Abu Ismail, and

3. Abu Mousa.15

Physical Descriptions

Narrators have mentioned that Imam al-Sadiq (as) was of a normal height, pink-faced, black-haired, wavy-haired, high-nosed, half-bald (from the fore of the head), and soft-skinned. He had a black mole on the face and he had other moles on the body.16

It is also said that he was normal in length and tawny in colour.17

These were his physical descriptions.

Concerning his personal characteristics, it can be said that they were similar to those of the Holy Prophet (S) as we will discuss later in the book.

His Birth Year

Historians have disagreed about Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) year of birth. The following are some opinions:

He was born in Medina in 80 A.H. (After Hegira)18

He was born in 83 A.H. on Friday or Monday, thirteen nights before the end of the month of Rabi al-Awwal.19

He was born in 86 A.H.20

His House

The house in which Imam al-Sadiq (as) was born and brought up was the house of his father and grandfather. This house had been called Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) House at former times. However, in the reign of the Saudi government, it was granted to the custodian of the Holy Precinct and afterwards, when this office was cancelled, the house was granted to the custodian of the waqfs (endowment or settlement of property under which the proceeds are to be devoted to a religious or charitable purpose) of the Holy Prophet’s (S) Precinct.21

His Creativity and Intelligence

Imam al-Sadiq (as) was the symbol of creativity and intelligence at an early age. No one, of the same age, could ever keep racing with him throughout history. This fact raised much astonishment and admiration. An admirable instance was his attendance in the lectures of his father while he was an infant whose age not exceeding three years. He highly absorbed all his father’s lectures, even better than the rest of the students who were high rank scholars.

It is worth knowing that the lectures of his father were not only dedicated to jurisprudence, traditions and interpretation of the Holy Quran, but they also included other fields of knowledge like philosophy, medicine, chemistry, astronomy and so forth. Imam al-Sadiq (as) was familiar with these sciences.

The following story proves this fact: al-Walid ibn Abd al-Malik ordered his representative (official) in Yathrib, Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz to expand the building of the Prophet’s (S) Mosque. Umar completed a part of the project and informed him about the situation. Al-Walid travelled to Yathrib to personally acquire what Umar did for extending and repairing affairs. Umar went one hundred fifty miles away from the city to meet him and to prepare a formal reception. The people of Yathrib went out of the city to meet and greet him.

Afterwards, when he arrived to Yathrib, he went to the Prophet’s (S) Mosque to monitor the progress of the repair process. At that time, he saw Imam al-Baqir (as) who interrupted his lecture to greet and honour him while he was on the pulpit giving lectures for his students. Al-Walid insisted to continue the lecture. The Imam (as) agreed and went on teaching. The subject was geography. Al-Walid became astonished and asked the Imam (as): “What is this science?”

The Imam (as) replied: “This is the science that talks about the earth, the sky, the sun and stars.”

Al-Walid glanced at Imam al-Sadiq (as) and asked Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz: “Who is this young boy among these men?”

Umar started answering: “He is Jafar ibn Muhammad al-Baqir (as)’”

Al-Walid went on asking rapidly: “Is he capable of understanding the lecture and absorbing it?”

Umar had already known the boy’s capabilities in sciences and knowledge, so he said: “He is the most intelligent one in this gathering and the most active person in querying and discussions.”

Al-Walid was really astonished; he called him instantly to ask the following questions, when the boy arrived: “What is your name?”

The boy answered with fluency: “My name is Jafar.”

Al-Walid was interested in examining him, so he said: “Do you know who the owner of logic was? That is, who was the founder?

The boy answered: “Aristotle was named as the owner of logic. His students and followers named him so …”

Al-Walid put a second question, saying: “Who is the owner of al-Maz?”

Imam al-Sadiq (as) informed him of this inaccurate piece of information and, instead, said: “This is not a name of someone. It is a name of a collection of stars, which are called Dhoul-Ainnah.”22

Amazement and astonishment surrounded al-Walid, as he did not know what to say next. He thought for a long time to recall something else to question the descendent of the Prophet (S). Therefore, he recalled the following and addressed him: “Do you know who the owner of al-Siwak is?”

The Imam (as) instantly answered: “This is the nickname of Abdullah ibn Masoud, a companion of my great grandfather, the Holy Prophet (S).”

Al-Walid could not remember another question to ask the Imam (as). So, he found himself unable in front of this great intelligent boy. Therefore, he went on admiring the Imam (as); greeted him and held his hands while approaching Imam al-Baqir (as) to congratulate him, saying: “Your son will be the greatest scientist of his age.”23

The prediction of al-Walid became true. Imam al-Sadiq (as) became ultimately the most knowledgeable scientist of his time, if not the greatest throughout history. There is no reasonable rationale for this wisdom and knowledge that the Imam (as) was granted, except considering the fact that Allah (SwT) granted the Imams (as) science, knowledge and wisdom during their lives as He the Almighty granted the Prophets (as) and Messengers (as) the same. An infant, according to his psychological evolution, cannot own these scientific capacities, even though he is highly intelligent.

His Familiarity with Languages

One of Imam al-Sadiq’s (as) most striking characteristics in intelligence and wisdom was his familiarity with all of the live languages. When speaking with a foreigner, it seemed that he was one of them. Here are some of the languages he was speaking:

1. Nabataean Language: Imam al-Sadiq (as) was fluent in Nabataean language. Younus ibn Zabyan, the Nabataean, narrated that Imam al-Sadiq (as) used to speak to him in Nabataean language when he described the first rebellious facts that revolted against Prophet Moses (as), Prophet Jesus (as) and Imam Ali (as) in Nahrawan. He continued his speech saying: “Maleh Dir Bir Maki Maleh” which means; this took place near your hometown.

2. Hebrew was another language fluently spoken by Imam al-Sadiq (as).

Amir ibn Ali al-Jamii narrated the following: I told Abu Abdullah (al-Sadiq (as)): We eat all the sacrifices of the People of the Book (i.e. Scripturists), but we do not know whether they call the name of Allah (SwT) or not when they slaughter these animals.

He answered: “If you hear that they called the name of Allah (SwT) then you can eat. Do you know what they say for their sacrifices?”

I said: “No.”

He read something I did not understand and then said: “This is what they are commanded.”

I said: “Would you please allow us to write this?”

He replied: “Write! (Nooh Away Adino Balhiz Malhoo Alam Ashraso Awvsobanwa yosea mosegh theal astahoo)”

According to another report, the Imam (as) dictated a statement in Hebrew, which means the following:

Blessed be You! You are Allah (SwT) the Master of the worlds, Who has sanctified us with His commands and ordered us to slaughter animals.

3. Farsi (Persian): This was one of the eastern languages that Imam al-Sadiq (as) was perfect in.

Abu Basir narrated the following: I was with Abu Abdullah (as) when a man from Khurasan was talking with him with a language that I could not understand. The language with which the Imam (as) spoke with that man was Farsi.

When a number of people came from Khurasan, the Imam (as) addressed them saying: “If one collects money protecting it, Allah (SwT) will punish him to the same extent.”

They said in Farsi that they could not understand Arabic. So, the Imam (as) repeated the same in Farsi.

Abu Yazid Farqad narrated the following: I was with Abu Abdullah (as) when he sent a Persian slave to perform a task. The slave came back and the Imam (as) tried to understand what he had done; but the slave could not clarify what he was trying to say. The Imam (as) asked the slave to clarify what he was trying to say so many times that I thought that the Imam (as) would be angry with him. Finally, the Imam (as) said to him, “You can speak in any language, for I can understand you.”

4. Fluency in all Languages: Imam al-Sadiq (as) was familiar with all languages on the earth. Aban ibn Taghlib narrated: I left my house in Medina, heading for Abu Abdullah (as). When I reached his house, I found there peoples whom I had not seen before, wearing the best clothes I had ever seen; handsome and completely quiet. Abu Abdullah (as) began his speech and then we all came out. The fifteen persons of different languages could understand what the Imam (as) had said. Among them were Arab, Persian, Nabataean, Abyssinian and Sicilian persons. The Arab said, “He (i.e. the Imam (as)) talked with us in Arabic.” The Persian said, “He talked with us in Farsi.” The Abyssinian stated, “He talked with us in Abyssinian.” The Sicilian said, “He talked with us in Sicilian.”

Imam al-Sadiq (as) informed some of his companions that the subject was the same and he just translated it into each one’s language.

When a discussion started between Imam al-Sadiq (as) and Ammar al-Sabati in Nabataean, Ammar was astonished; he thus said surprisingly, “I have not seen any Nabataean person more fluent in Nabataean language more than you are.”

Commenting, Imam al-Sadiq (as) said, “Ammar; not only Nabataean but also all languages.”

Imam al-Sadiq (as) owned indescribable intelligence and creativity when he was a child and also when he became a youth and then old. He excelled all genius individuals of the world in this characteristic.

His Participation in Rebuilding the Prophet’s (S) Mosque

When al-Walid ibn Abd al-Malik commanded his representative in Yathrib, Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz to expand the Prophet’s (S) Mosque and works began, Imam al-Sadiq (as), who was a child at the time, asked his father to allow him to participate in building the mosque. His father said: “No son! You are too young to do such a hard work.”

The child answered with a manlike reply: “I would like to participate in the construction of the mosque as my great grandfather, the Holy Prophet (S), did.”

Imam al-Baqir (as) was surprised with his son’s answer, which indicated his intelligence, eager and aspiration to leadership. So, he could not find anything appropriate except giving him a positive response. Therefore, Imam al-Sadiq (as) participated in these works. He looked like his great grandfather, Prophet Muhammad (S), who had participated in the construction of the holy mosque with his companions.

The Disease of His Mother

In 90 A.H., smallpox spread in Yathrib and affected a large number of children. Imam al-Sadiq (as) was seven or ten years old when his mother feared the health of her son and went to al-Tanfasah, a rural village near Medina.

Umm Farwah, the Imam’s (as) mother, stayed with her son in al-Tanfasah to be far from the danger; but she had been affected with this disease without noting so at the starting stages. When the symptoms of the disease appeared, she noticed the extent of the danger. She did not pay much attention to her cure, because her sole concern was saving her son. So, she sent him elsewhere far away from her place and she had to suffer the pains of the disease alone.

When Imam al-Baqir (as) was informed about the case, he ceased his lectures and courses and directed towards his wife. However, before traveling to visit her, he visited the tomb of his great grandfather and asked Allah (SwT) to save his wife from this disease.

When she knew about the Imam’s (as) coming, she felt so proud of this visit. However, she also feared the affection of the disease and thanked him for his trouble in coming. He announced the good news of her recovery, saying: “I asked Allah (SwT) to save you from this disease when I went to visit the tomb of my great grandfather. I am sure that my grandfather does not reject my request; rather, he will fulfil my demand. So, be sure that you will be recovered from this disease. I am also immune if Allah (SwT) will.”

Allah (SwT) responded to his prayers and Umm Farwah was totally recovered from the disease. It is worth mentioning that this disease does not usually affect adults, but if they are affected, there are very a few recovered.

His Dignity and Staidness

All faces used to humble themselves before Imam al-Sadiq (as), for his dignity and gravity. He resembled the solemnity of prophets and the glory of saints. No one saw him except that he would notice his dignity, because he had the spirit of the Imams (as) and the holiness of lords. Ibn Miskan, a respected and truthful Shiite, would never visit the Imam (as), fearing that he would not fulfil the duty of glorifying and venerating the Imam (as); he therefore used to receive the information he needed from the Imam’s (as) companions.

Notes

1.Ibn al-Sabbagh, al-Fusoul al-Muhimmah, pp. 192.

2.Al-Qayrawani, Zahr al-Adab, 1:85.

3.Ibn al-Jawzi, Sifat al-Safwah 249/2 as quoted from al-Maarif, pp. 175.

4.Al-Qasim ibn Muhammad ibn Abi-Bakr was one of the sublime master jurisprudents. Having shown great respect towards al-Qasim, Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz, one of the Umayyad rulers, used to say, “Had I any hand in the matter (of leadership), I would give the power to al-Qasim ibn Muhammad.”

Al-Qasim lived a very long life and he lost sight in the final years of his lifetime. At the last hours of his lifetime, he called his son and instructed him saying, “Throw dust on my body easily and level my grave to the ground and then join your family members. Beware of mentioning my praiseworthy deeds after my death.”

Al-Qasim passed away in a placed called Qudayd, situated between Mecca and Medina. (For more details about his biography, the gentle reader is advised to refer to Sifat al-Safwah (by Ibn al-Jawzi), 2:49-50, al-Maarif, pp. 54, Mujam al-Buldan (by al-Hamawi), 7:38, Wafiyyat al-Ayan (by Ibn Khallakan) 3:224, Tahdhib al-Tahdhib (by Ibn Hajar).

5.Al-Imam al-Sadiq Kama Arafahou Ulama al-Gharb (Imam al-Sadiq (as) as Known by Western Scholars), by A Group of Authors, pp. 72.

6.Yousuf ibn Hatam al-Shami, al-Durr al-Nazim fi Manaqib al-Aimmah; A manuscript found in Amir al-Muminin Library, pp. 185.

In his book entitled al-Ansab (3:507), al-Samani says: Al-Sadiq is a nickname of Jafar al-Sadiq (as) who was given this nickname for his honesty in speech.

7.Muhsin al-Amin, Ayan al-Shiah, 4:91.

8.Al-Yafii, Mirat al-Zaman, A manuscript found in Amir al-Muminin Library 5:166.

9.Ibid.

10.Ibid.

11.Abu Nasr al-Bukhari, Sirr al-Salsalah al-Alawiyyah, pp. 34.

12.Ibn Shahrashoub, Manaqib Al Abi-Talib 4:281.

13.Ibid.

14.Ibid.

15.Ibid.

16.Ibid.

17.Al-Dhahbi, Tadhkirat al-Huffaz 1 :158.

18.Ibn al-Wardi, Tarikh 1:266; al-Shabrawi al-Shafii, al-Ithaf bi-Hubb al-Ashraf, pp. 54; Abu Nasr al-Bukhari, Sirr al-Salsalah al-Alawiyyah, pp. 34; al-Qanadouzi, Yanabi al-Mawaddah, pp. 457; Al-Dhahbi, Tadhkirat al-Huffaz 1:157; al-Shablanji, Nour al-Absar, pp. 132; Ibn Khallakan, Wafiyyat al-Ayan 1:191.

19.Al-Kulayni, Usoul al-Kafi 1:472; Ibn Shahrashoub, Manaqib Al Abi-Talib 4:280; al-Tabarsi, Ilam al-Wara bi-Alam al-Huda, pp. 271. In this reference book, the author says, “He (i.e. Imam al-Sadiq (as)) was born in Medina thirteen nights before the end of the month of Rabi al-Awwal.”

20.Ibn Shahrashoub, Manaqib Al Abi-Talib 4:208.

21.Muhammad Hasanain Haikal, Fi Manzil al-Wahy, pp. 532.

22.This collection of stars is scientifically called Erika.

23.Imam al-Sadiq Kama Arafahou Ulama al-Gharb, pp. 108-112.