Alhassanain(p) Network for Heritage and Islamic Thought

Imam Musa Al-Kadhim (A.S.)

LINEAGE

IMAM MUSA son of Imam JA'FER AL-SADIQ (AS) was born in AL-ABWA (a district between Mecca and Medina) on the 7th of SAFAR in the year 128 of HIJRA. His mother, HAMEEDA, was of Berber's (North African) lineage. He was blessed with martyrdom on 25th of RAJAB in the year 183 of HIJRA in KADHIMIA (Iraq) and was buried there.

THE ERA OF THE PRECEDING IMAMS: AL-BAQIR AND AL-SADIQ (A.S)

During the life of IMAM AL-BAQIR (AS), a current of awareness started in the Muslim community coinciding with the deteriorated situation of the UMAYYAD rule which grew weaker year after year. Now and then, rebellious groups confronted injustice and oppression of the UMAYYAD rule and reminded the people of the ALAWIS' suffering in their prisons. They called the people to seek revenge for the martyrs of KERBALA and of such battles.. As a result, the UMAYYAD rulers came to realize the great risk facing their authority, hence they had to show less hostility towards AHLUL BAYT (AS). They stopped killing and torturing their opponents in public.

During this period, IMAM AL-BAQIR (AS) was giving his lessons in Al-Medina and its surrounding villages. His lessons were comprised of: Islamic beliefs and legislations, and QURANIC interpretation along with explanation of the Prophetic Tradition. Following the demise of IMAM AL-BAQIR (AS), revolts against the UMAYYAD rule increased in number and spread everywhere. People turned towards the Prophet's family in their devotion and support.

IMAM AL-SADIQ (AS) pursued his forefathers' footsteps and demonstrated a genuine concern for their school of thought. That school became so large that it was called AHLUL BAYT'S University. Students from all over the Muslim world joined that School to acquire religious instructions and legislations besides other sciences. It was quite necessary for those concerned to attend that School of IMAM AL-SADIQ to get the authentic narrations which were not recorded for nearly one century at the order of the preceding caliphs. Recording such narrations started only ten years prior to IMAM AL-SADIQ'S Imamate. Nearly 4.000 students attended IMAM AL-SADIQ lessons during the 30 years of this authority. Among those students were leaders of different movements and parties. Even opponents and supporters of different groups attended his lessons. The UMAYYADS could do nothing to confront the attraction to his lessons.

In the year 132 of HIJRA, the UMAYYAD reign of terror came to an end and the ABASSI clan seized power through their chief ABI AL-ABBAS AL-SAFFAH (the blood-shedder), then his brother ABI JA'FER AL-MANSOUR, his successor. AL-MANSOUR was among the attendants of IMAM AL-SADIQ'S lessons. He often listened to his sermons and sayings, hence he was quite aware of his method of spreading the Islamic instructions.

Prior to their rise to power, AL-SAFFAH and his brother, along with YAQUB IBN DAWOOD, ABU Muslim AL-KHURASANI, and ABU SALAMA AL-KHALLAL, prominent figures of the time and deadly enemies of the UMAYYADS, demonstrated great pain at the injustice inflicted on the ALAWIS. They expressed a great anger at the bloodshed in KERBALA. However, as soon as they assumed power, little by little they exposed their true face and showed their wicked intentions and ambitions. They openly expressed their hostility towards the Prophet's family members and filled their prisons with them, even put most of them to death. At that time, Imam AL-SADIQ'S name enjoyed a high reputation throughout the Muslim world.

As previously mentioned, AL-MANSOUR was quite aware of the Imam's influence, his sublime virtue, and his sound knowledge. He himself listened to the Imam's lessons and saw how numerous his students were, hence he decided to stop those lessons by all means.

At first he kept his intention secret but soon made it public and started chasing the Imam's students and followers. He (AL-MANSOUR) even appointed a killer as a governor in Al-Medina and ordered him to put the Imam under severe house arrest and to continue bothering him. The governor was Mohammed IBN SULAIMAN who could not achieve his goal.

THE UNIQUE TESTAMENT

In the year 148 of HIJRA, IMAM AL-SADIQ was blessed with martyrdom: he was poisoned by AL-MANSOUR'S mercenaries. When AL-MANSOUR heard of the Imam's demise, he ordered his governor in AL-Medina to search for the Imam's will and know who his successor in Imamate was, to arrest him, and to immediately put him to death. The governor searched the house for it. He found it and read it. The Imam had entrusted authority to five persons: AL-MANSOUR (the caliph) himself, Mohammed IBN SULAIMNA (Al-Medina governor), ABDILLAH AL-AFTAH (son of the late Imam), MUSA (his other son), and to his (the late Imam's) wife, HAMEEDA.

When the governor read the will, he was at a loss as to what to do. He informed AL-MANSOUR of its contents and waited for his instructions. AL-MANSOUR, too, was now at a loss and was stunned at the Imam's sharp intellect and far insight. He knew that the late Imam was aware of his evil intentions; this is why he resorted to that procedure. He found it impossible to kill those mentioned in the will.

MUSA AL-KADHIM'S IMAMATE

MUSA AL-KADHIM (AS) became the Imam while the common people considered AL-MANSOUR as the Muslims leader and caliph, successor of the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H). AL-MANSOUR'S agents spread everywhere and imposed a strict surveillance on the people in order to know the name of the new Imam who would succeed AL-SADIQ (AS). They arrested everyone whom they suspected and subjected him to severe torture.

Following the demise of IMAM AL-SADIQ (AS), AL-MANSOUR devised plans to extinguish the torch of SHI'ISM (the following of AHLUL BAYTS' School of Thought), hence he created many Islamic sects and used the court theologians to achieve his goals. He flooded them with wealth and ordered them to start different Schools of Thought vis-à-vis IMAM AL-SADIQ'S School. They were provided with official facilities while his (AL-MANSOUR'S) assistants encouraged people to join those Schools. The era of AL-MANSOUR'S reign was the most damaging in the Islamic history and the most bitter. He managed to create more than one hundred religious sects.

IMAM AL-KADHIM enjoyed his father's care for twenty years and was quite aware of AL-MANSOUR'S hostile stance towards the Prophet's family. Hence, his name as a new Imam was kept secret, unknown to the rulers. Very few of his close following knew him but never mentioned his name to avoid AL-MANSOUR'S spies. They received his instructions and guidelines with a great difficulty. It was quite risky to convey his instructions to his supporters who were at a loss regarding whom to contact for religious information. One of those followers was HISHAM IBN SALIM whose following story indicates the difficulty in reaching the Imam.

THE STORY OF HISHAM IBN SALIM

HISHAM says, "Following the demise of IMAM JA'FER AL-SADIQ (AS), I and Mohammed IBN AL-NU'MAN SAHIB AL-TAAQ were in Al-Medina. People crowded around ABDILLAH AL-AFTAH, son of late IMAM JA'FER. The people considered him the authority after his father. We went to him and asked him some questions about alms-giving (ZAKAT). He could not answer us, thus we knew that he was not of sound religious knowledge while the infallible Imam should be aware of all matters and could answer all questions. We left his house not knowing where to go. Not knowing where to go, we noticed an old man whom we did not know signaling to me to follow him. I feared he might be one of AL-MANSOUR'S spies looking for information to see whom the people would contact after JA'FER (AS) in order to put an end to them. I said to my comrade: 'Stay away! The man is signaling to me'.

"He kept away and I followed the old man. I kept walking with him, thinking that I was approaching death on my feet. He brought me to the door of IMAM MUSA AL-KADHIM and left me alone. A servant was at the door. He said, 'Come in, may Allah bless you'. There, I saw IMAM MUSA AL-KADHIM. I said to him, 'Your father has passed away, whom are we to follow now?' He said, 'Allah will guide you to your intention'. I said, 'May I be your sacrifice, your brother claims he is the Imam after his father'. He said, 'My brother does not want people to worship Allah'. I said, 'Who is in authority after your father?' He said, 'By the will of Allah, you will be guided to him'. I said, 'Are you the Imam?' He said, 'I do not say it'. "I said to myself, 'It is not the proper question'. Then I said to him: 'Do you have an Imam?' He said, 'No'. I immediately felt a strange kind of fear and respect for him. I said, 'Shall I ask you as I used to ask your father?' He said, 'Make a choice and do not broadcast. If you do it, then it is sure death'.

"I asked him various questions and found him an ocean of knowledge. I said to him, 'Your followers are at a loss. They do not know you. Shall I call them?' He said, 'Call the wise ones only and make them swear to keep it secret, otherwise it is slaying'. This Imam pointed to his neck as he uttered the word: 'Slaying'.

"When I left I met my comrade who asked me, 'What have you gotten?' I said, 'Guidance!' and related to him the affair". The Imam's name spread and most of his father's followers got in touch with him to ask him about various religious matters despite the strict official watch imposed on him along with the caliph's order of preventing him from giving lessons. Very few were somehow able to get in touch with him under various excuses. They would get the necessary information, write it down, then deliver it carefully to other people.

His followers used to write his narrations under different names such as: the righteous man, the scholar, that man… In order to avoid troubles, they would write the opinions of the contemporary theologians and insert the Imam's verdict between the lines. Thus, they managed to escape the caliph's spies and avoid harassment.

IMAM AL-KADHIM'S COMPANIONS

At such crucial situations, the Imam's instructions were disseminated by his faithful followers. There were 300 of those followers who wrote books and letters related to him and handed down those books to the following generations. Among the 300 of them, six were accepted as the most truthful and authentic. They were: YUNIS IBN ABDIL RAHMAN, SAFWAN IBN YAHYA, Mohammed IBN UMARI, AHMAD IBN Mohammed, ABDILLAH IBN AL-MUGHIRA and AL-HASAN IBN MAHBOUB.

Those six were considered the nearest to him and the most accepted. They spent their life confronting the tyrants of the day. They achieved the task of conveying the authentic narration and QURANIC sciences to future generations. YUNIS IBN ABDIL RAHMAN was a pious scholar. People compared him with SALMAN the Persian. He spent his life writing books and recording narrations. He was of the near followers. Most of the time, he was chased by the rulers' agents and spies. Mohammed IBN UMARI was one of the prominent figures of the day and of the Imam's close companions. He of the day and of the Imam's close companions. He conveyed most of the Imam's narration sand sayings. When harassment against him intensified and he was under heavy chasing by AL-RASHID'S mercenaries, he hid his books under the ground. He was arrested and tortured but he was firm and never confessed any name of the Imam's followers. When he was set free, he got his books out just to find them all ruined, worn-out.

At this time, IMAM AL-KADHIM was blessed with martyrdom and IBN UMARI re-wrote whatever he could remember of the Imam's narrations and sayings. His narrations are considered authentic.

This brief glance at the life of these righteous men indicates the hardship they suffered for the sake of Islam, and the great efforts they made to keep Islamic instructions safe from the deviation of the corrupted rulers and anti-Islamic sects.

SAFWAN IBN MIHRAN'S STORY

The story of another important supporter of the Imam (as), namely SAFWAN IBN MIHRAN is worth mentioning here. He is also known as "AL-JAMMAL" who should not be confused with another previously mentioned SAFWAN AL-JAMMAL (his full name is: SAFWAN IBN YAHAY AL-JAMMAL). SAFWAN AL-JAMMAL was a rich man who owned many camels that were used to transport people during the HAJJ season from Baghdad to Mecca and back. The ABASSI caliph HAROUN AL-RASHID used to hire those camels for that purpose.

One day, SAFWAN visited IMAM AL-KADHIM (AS) who said to him, "Oh, SAFWAN! Everything is nice about you except one thing". SAFWAN was amazed; he said, "May I be your sacrifice, what is it?!"

The Imam (as) said, "You hire your camels to this man (HAROUN AL-RASHID)" SAFWAN said, "By Allah, I hire the camels neither for fun nor for hunting. I hire them for this special route (Baghdad-Mecca), and I send my men, I do not keep him company".

The Imam said, "Do you get money from them (HAROUN and his men)?" SAFWAN said, "Yes, I do". The Imam said, "Do you love to see them survive till you get yourcamels back?" SAFWAN said, "Yes".

The Imam said, "Whoever loves to see them survive is one of them and thus abides in hell". Immediately SAFWAN left him. He went and sold his camels to avoid hiring them to HAROUN AL-RASHID. AL-RASHID was vexed when he heard about that but did not show it due to SAFWAN'S good reputation among people. He only blamed him for that.

IMAM AL-KADHIM AND THE RULERS OF THE TIME

IMAM AL-KADHIM (AS) was contemporary of the following ABASSI rulers: AL-MANSOUR, AL-MEHDI, AL-HADI, and HAROUN AL-RASHID. He spent ten years of his Imamate during AL-MANSOURS' caliphate. Those years were the most hard of his life and the darkest in Islamic history. AL-MANSOUR used to arrest the Imam's followers in groups, torture them, kill them, then bury them secretly in their prisons. Following AL-MANSOUR'S death, the prisons were opened and the buried bones of the prisoners were discovered. Only then did the people come to know the great injustice that took place at those fearful prisons.

At the death of AL-MANSOUR, his stupid son AL-MEHDI AL-ABASSI assumed power. He was a playboy who publicly expressed his hostility towards the Prophet's family. However, he was not as oppressive as his father was. Hence, things improved in general.

AL-MEHDI AL-ABASSI tried once to annoy IMAM AL-KADHIM. He summoned him to Baghdad and threw him in prison. Soon after a horrible nightmare, he set him free and sent him respectfully back to Al-Medina. During his short regime, AL-MEHDI often met him at his palace. One day, a dialogue related to FADAK (the property which the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) gave to his daughter Fatima and she was deprived of it after his demise).

AL-MEHDI AL-ABASSI said to IMAM AL-KADHIM that he was ready to give him back FADAK. The Imam refused to take it unless it was given back within its full borders. The ABASSI ruler asked him, "What are its borders?" the Imam said, "If I mention its borders, you will not give it back to me". The caliph insisted on knowing its borders, so the Imam said, "The first border is in Eden in the south". AL-MEHDI'S face changed color. The Imam said, "The second border is SAMARKAND to the east". AL-MEHDI frowned. The Imam said, "The third border is to the west of Africa". AL-MEHDI indignantly said, "And what is the fourth?" the Imam said, "Armenia and the Black Sea". AL-MEHDI said, "You left nothing for us. Come, have my place (on the throne)"

The Imam said, "I told you that you would not give it back to me if I mentioned its borders". This dialogue indicates that the Imam (as) wanted to show the ABASSI ruler that all the Muslim world was usurped by the ABASSI rulers and by the UMAYYADS before them. It was not the matter of a small piece of land, but the whole Muslim countries. AL-MEHDI AL-ABASSI did not rule long. His son AL-HADI, whose personality was weak, succeeded him in office. His rule also came to an end soon. HAROUN AL-RASHID became the caliph after him.

THE STORY OF ALI IBN YAQTIN

HAROUN AL-RASHID was the most powerful and the strongest ABASSI ruler. Since the very beginning of his rule he applied pressure on the ALAWIS, arresting, torturing, and killing many of them. This motivated the Imam (as) to advise his followers to go underground to avoid AL-RASHID'S mercenaries. This helped them spread the Islamic teachings throughout the Muslim world. They even managed to have jobs in the state offices and even in AL-RASHID'S palace. It helped them give a hand to the oppressed and needy Muslims.

ALI IBN YAQTIN was one of the influential figures. From the very beginning, he was an enemy of the UMAYYAD authority and incited people to rebel against it. Through his activity, he became acquainted with AL-SAFFAH and AL-MANSOUR, the two ABASSI rulers. Hence, strong friendship linked him to the two caliphs, and he was entrusted with high jobs. He was pious, generous, and always ready to help the needy. AL-MANSOUR appointed him chief of the caliph's court.

YAQTIN had a son called Ali who like his father: one of the best followers of IMAM AL-KADHIM (AS). He used to meet him secretly. At the death of his father, the son took his office. During AL-RASHID'S regime, he became his minister. AL-RASHID knew nothing about ALI IBN YAQTIN'S devotion to IMAM AL-KADHIM. ALI used to secretly pay the Imam the fifth of his wealth (KHUMS) along with the poor-rate (ZAKAT). He often thought of leaving his office, but the Imam advised him to stay in order to help those believers who needed some help. One day, AL-RASHID offered him a very splendid garment knitted with gold threads usually worn by kings. It was called AL-DDARA'A. As soon as he got it he handed it over to the Imam with the one-fifth of his earnings and the poor-rate. The Imam took the money but retuned the garment. He wrote him saying, "Keep it, and do not give it to anyone. You will have an affair related to it one day",

ALI IBN YAQTIN was sad because the Imam returned it. He sprinkled perfume on it and kept it in a safe case then sealed the case.Some time later, Ali was angry with his servant who was aware of Ali's devotion to IMAM AL-KADHIM (AS). The servant immediately went to AL-RASHID and said to him, "ALI IBN YAQTIN believes in AL-KADHIM'S Imamate and pays him the one-fifth and the poor-rate. He even gave him the garment you presented to him".

AL-RASHID was very angry and said, "I will investigate the matter. If it is true, I will put him to death". He at once sent for him and said, "What have you done with the garment I offered you?" IBN YAQTIN said, "I have perfumed in a sealed case". AL-RASHID said, "Bring it now".

IBN YAQTIN ordered one of his servants to bring it to him, telling him where he could find it. the servant came back with the sealed case which he put it in front of AL-RASHID who opened it and found the garment in it. he was no longer angry and said, "Put it back in its place and go away well-guided. I will not believe whoever speaks behind your back". He then ordered the servant to be whipped one thousand stroke after which he died.

ALI IBN YAQTIN then realized why IMAM AL-KADHIM had returned the garment and advised him to keep it. such and other incidents led AL-RASHID to realize the important status of IMAM AL-KADHIM. He decided to get rid of him, so he sought the advice of his minister KAHLID AL-BARMAKI, the deadly enemy of IMAM AL-KADHIM (AS). AL-BARMAKI knew well that the Imam's nephew, ALI IBN ISMAEL, envied his uncle. He advised AL-RASHID to call him, offer him presents, then ask him about his uncle's activity. The nephew said, "I left my uncle in Al-Medina. He is the best condition with so much wealth and so many men. It seems that there are two caliphs: one is in Iraq and one is in HIJAZ".

The caliph understood the nephew's hint, hence he decided to get rid of Imam. He ordered him arrested and imprisoned in Basra. The governor of Basra was ISA IBN JA'FER. He treated the Imam quite well when he saw his great piety and adoration. When AL-RASHID knew of the good treatment, he ordered the Imam transferred to another prison, so the Imam was jailed in AL-FADHIL IBN AL-RABI'S prison. He stayed long in that prison. AL-RABI felt the grace of the Imam, hence he treated him with great respect. He moved him to a good house where he was given the best food and was allowed to meet some of his followers. Sometimes, he was allowed to leave the house and make some rounds in the city of Baghdad, then return. AL-RASHID was scared to death of the Imam's good reputation and feared that people might follow him. He ordered his imprisonment in AL-SINDI IBN SHAHIK'S prison and ordered IBN SHAHIK to treat Imam with cruelty.

With chains in feet and his hands, IMAM AL-KADHIM (AS) stayed long in that prison. Then AL-RASHID sent his minister YAHYA AL-BARMAKI to tell the Imam that AL-RASHID had sworn to set him free if he apologized to him. AL-RASHID intended to humiliate him and expose his weakness in front of the people to prove that he himself was the caliph of the Muslims.

The Imam knew his intention, so he said to AL-BARMAKI, "I and HAROUN will son separate. He will achieve his objective". The Imam spent 20 years of his life in AL-RASHID'S prisons.

Finally, IBN SHAHIK was ordered to give him poisoned dates. As soon as he ate them, the Imam was blessed with martyrdom. The court theologians and doctors claimed that his death was due to some kind of natural sickness and for no other reason. However, the people had different opinions. They were quite aware of the reason behind his death. They knew who was behind it.

Nowadays, the Imam's shrine in KADHIMAIN, Baghdad, Iraq, is a landmark testifying to the crimes committed by HAROUN AL-RASHID and his likes. Such crimes cannot be hidden no matter how long they may be kept secret, nor can they extinguish the torch of Islam. The Almighty says, {They desire to put out the light of Allah with their mouths and Allah will not consent save to perfect His light, though the unbelievers are averse}. [AL-TAWBA: 32].

Imam Ali Al-Ridha (A.S.)

LINEAGE

ALI is the son of Imam MUSA AL-KADHIM (AS). His mother is UMM AL-BANIN. He was born on the 11th of DHIL QIDAH in the year 148 of HIJRA in Al-Medina Al-MUNAWARA. He was blessed with martyrdom on the 29 of SAFAR of the year 203 of HIJRA in TOOS (Iran) and was buried MASHHAD.

AL-KADHIM, AL-RIDHA (PEACE BE UPON BOTH) AND HAROUN AL-RASHID

It is quite easy for us today to speak about HAROUN AL-RASHID and discuss his life. It was quite difficult to do so during the life of this ABASSI ruler. To merely mention his name was enough to stir great fear and leave the people scared to death. He was notorious for his cruelty, brutality, and oppression. He ruled the vast Islamic world that stretched from India in the east to Atlantic Ocean in the west. He considered himself the Muslims' caliph but was quite aware, deep inside, that the caliphate was never his legitimate right. He knew that such right was confined to a special person who exceeded all the people of his time in knowledge, piety, and righteousness. He knew that the caliphate was Imam MUSA AL-KADHIM'S own right. Hence, he bitterly hated him and was hostile to his ALAWI family. Finally, he imprisoned him and for twenty years, moving him from one jail to another, till he was able to give him poisoned food. He got rid of him and swore to behead whoever among the ALAWIS claimed the Imamate after MUSA AL-KADHIM (AS). He intended to uproot the Imamate but Allah Almighty will not consent save to keep it, though the infidels are averse.

IMAM AL-KADHIM entrusted his son IMAM ALI with the Imamate. As soon as AL-KADHIM (AS) was blessed with martyrdom, ALI AL-RIDHA announced his Imamate to all people. He was not afraid of HAROUN or other tyrants. He made it clear publicly without hesitation. He was sure of Allah's help. His followers were concerned about his safety. One of them, Mohammed IBN SINAN, said to him, "O ABA AL-HASAN! You have declared your authority, succeeding your father, while AL-RASHID'S sword is still wet with his blood".

The IMAM (AS) said, "I have done it, motivated by the Messenger of Allah's stance when the Almighty ordered him (P.B.U.H.) to warn his nearest kin, and proclaim his call in public. The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) then said, 'Were ABU JAHL to take one hair from my head, then I would not be a Prophet'. Now I say to you: 'If HAROUN took one hair from my head, then I would not be an Imam".

The BARMAKIS were the group that continuously incited the rulers against IMAM AL-RIDHA. They had plotted against his father IMAM AL-KADHIM through the Imam' nephew ALI IBN ISMAEL who openly envied his uncle. They started their plots against his son, IMAM AL-RIDHA (AS). YAHYA AL-BARMAKI said to AL-RASHID one day, "You can see it now. ALI IBN MUSAahs succeeded his father and claimed the Imamate. You have sworn to kill whoever claims Imamate after him".

AL-RASHID said angrily, "Has it not been enough what we have already done to his father?! Do you want me to kill them all?" Those words of AL-RASHID indicated the atrocities which he had committed against IMAM AL-KADHIM (AS). However, that did not halt his attempt to get rid of AL-RIDHA (as). He often tried but failed because Allah's will protected the Imam (as) who one day said in reference to AL-RASHID'S attempts, "By Allah, he cannot do anything to me which I hate. This is clear from words reached me from my grandfather the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.)". Allah, the Manager of all affairs, provided IMAM AL-RIDHA with protection against AL-RASHID'S oppression, just as He protected the Prophet's offspring: IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN survived the battle of KERBALA and assumed his role in the Imamate.

HAROUN AL-RASHID died after having entrusted caliphate to his son AL-AMIN and, after him, to his other son AL-MAMOUN.

AL-AMIN spent his life in fun and frolic. He neglected the affairs of the large Muslim world. He also betrayed his brother AL-MAMOUN by depriving him of his right to the caliphate according to AL-RASHID'S will. He entrusted it to his young son MUSA whom he named as the successor. This division between the two brothers stirred wars among the two brothers' followers and supporters. At last, AL-AMIN was killed and AL-MAMOUN became the caliph. The division in the ABASSI clan led the authority to cease watching IMAM AL-RIDHA (AS). This gave him time to carry out his mission quietly and spread the Islamic tenants. The bloody wars between both brothers motivated the Muslims to ponder and to have second thoughts. They realized that both brothers were not qualified to be the Muslims' leaders. Again the people turned to the ALAWIS to assume their role. Moreover, the ABBASIS themselves were angry with AL-MAMOUN who killed his own brother.

IMAM AL-RIDHA (AS) AND AL-MAMOUN

AL-MAMOUN chose the city of MARO (MERV) to be his capital in order to express his gratitude to the KHURASANIS who helped him achieve power. A year after his ascendance to authority, upheavals spread throughout the country and revolts led by the ALAWIS erupted everywhere in holy Mecca, Al-Medina, Yemen, Basra and KUFA. AL-MAMOUN found himself surrounded by dangers from all sides. He realized the critical situation and found that the best way for him was to make a show of his desire to hand the caliphate over to IMAM AL-RIDHA (AS), thus he would please the ALAWIS who led the revolts against his rule and curb the upheavals. He was sure of the Imam's rejection, but his minister, AL-FADHIL IBN SAHL, encouraged him to write to the Imam. AL-MAMOUN wrote to the Imam (as) and summoned him to KHURASAN where he met him in MARO.

The Imam (as) gave various reasons to be spared the visit, but AL-MAMOUN insisted again and again till the Imam had no choice except to go. The Imam knew that the tyrant's son was never devoted to the son of Imam MUSA AL-KADHIM. He had to go because AL-MAMOUN would not leave him alone.

A JOURNEY OF RETURN

IMAM AL-RIDHA (AS) accompanied AL-MAMOUN'S envoys who surrounded him and showed a great deal of respect for him. Some of Al-Medina's dignitaries joined the caravan that made its way towards KHURASAN. At the order of the ruler (AL-MAMOUN), the caravan was to avoid cities such as QUM where the Imam's followers and devotees were great in number. However, people heard of his coming and all of them came out to welcome the grandson of the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.).

They crowded at both sides of the road and glorified Allah the Almighty. They were all anxious to have a look at his sublime person. The Imam noticed that AL-MAMOUN'S men tried to separate him from the people, so, he tried his best to address the people whenever he could. When the caravan reached NISAPOUR, its people came out to meet him. They had never dreamed of attaining such a blessing: to enjoy seeing the grandson of the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.). their dream had come true, hence, every man and woman left his/her home to welcome him.

It was a big event of love and devotion to the Prophet's household, peace be upon them all.

The city theologians and nobles were eager to have the chance to listen to him speak. But the people's excitement and devotion gave them no chance. They begged the people to be quiet; they obeyed, and the Imam put his head out of the pavilion which was on the back of his camel. They saw his bright face and were again excited. He signaled to them to keep silent. They held their breath and listened to every word he uttered. The Imam had to tell them everything but he still had to be careful. He had to be brief. He said, "My father MUSA AL-KADHIM told me that his father JA'FER AL-SADIQ, his father AL-BAQIR, his father ALI ZAIN AL-ABIDIN, his father AL-HUSAIN the martyr of KERBALA, his father ALI IBN ABI TALIB said, 'My beloved one, the joy of my eyes, the Messenger of Allah, said that the angel JIBRAEL heard Allah the Almighty say: The utterance of LA ILAHA ILLA Allah! (There is no god but the One God) is My fortress. Whoever enters My fortress is spared My wrath and chastisement'".

Thousands of narrators recorded many other prophetic narrations through infallible Imams (as). Those narrations are the source of great wisdom and piety.

Leaving NISAPOUR, the caravan approached MARO where AL-MAMOUN was to welcome the Imam in great celebration. He hosted him in a splendid palace, surrounding him with respect and honor.

The people felt happy about the Imam's arrival. They thought the hateful past would never appear again and that warring was over. They thought that AL-MAMOUN was ready to give the caliphate to its owner who had come to him. They thought that a good future was ahead of them. Alas! They were quite wrong. IMAM AL-RIDHA knew that AL-MAMOUN was not serious in his offer. He just made a show of compromise for a hidden purpose.

Not only AL-MAMOUN, but also his agents and followers were concerned about their own social status and high positions with the government. Hence, the Imam (as) refused AL-MAMOUN'S offer of the caliphate. Immediately, AL-MAMOUN offered the Imam the office of crown prince, that is, to succeed him in the caliphate. He did not make the offer out of love for the Imam (as) but only to legitimize his authority and silence the opposition. Again the Imam refused the offer but AL-MAMOUN insisted saying, "You receive my offer in what I hate, though you are safe from my harm. I swear by Allah, either you accept the office or I put you to death".

The Imam (as) was quite aware of the situation. When he made his farewell visit to the shrine of his grandfather, the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.), he cried saying, "I am leaving your neighborhood to die in a strange country". He made his journey from Al-Medina to KHURASAN under duress; he had no choice.

Finally he accepted the office but on certain conditions. He said to AL-MAMOUN, "I accept it on the condition that I neither appoint anyone in office nor dismiss anyone. I nullify no tradition and keep away from all affairs except for consultation".

AL-MAMOUN agreed and the covenant was made in front of all ministers, the army leaders, the noblemen, and a crowd of the common people. AL-MAMOUN distributed gifts and poets recited their poetry in praise of the event. On that occasion, AL-MAMOUN issued the state currency with the name of AL-RIDHA (as) on one face. The mosques' leaders thus would start their sermons praising AL-MAMOUN and IMAM AL-RIDHA in their DU'A (supplication). In KHURASAN, the Imam held meetings attended by scholars, doctors, theologians and others who were all amazed at his profound knowledge.

AL-MAMOUN used to attend those meetings which filled him with envy, though he claimed to encourage scientific research and knowledge. The Imam (as) often noticed the disappointment of AL-MAMOUN during his lessons. Hence, hetired to make his talks brief and to end the meetings as soon as possible. He under the cover of being at his service. He often appealed to Allah saying, "O Lord! If my relief is through death, then hasten with it".

THE CONGREGATION PRAYERS AT EID AL-FITR

During the first year of the imam's appointment as the crown prince, he was ordered by AL-MAMOUN to lead the congregational prayers of the religious ritual on the first day of SHAWAL celebrating the achievement of fasting during the month of Ramadan. The occasion is EID AL-FITR which all Muslims enjoy. IMAM AL-RIDHA wrote him saying, "You are aware of the condition we made when I accepted this office. Now do spare me this duty of leading the prayers".

AL-MAMOUN insisted saying, "I want the people to feel at ease on seeing you and know your distinction". The Imam (as) agreed on condition that he would perform it similarly to the performance of the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.) and Ali (as). AL-MAMOUN agreed saying, "Do it as you please". AL-MAMOUN ordered his officials, army leaders, and other people to go early and wait at the Imam's door to accompany him to the mosque for the prayers.

On that early morning, people gathered along the roads and on their homes' rooftops to watch the holy Imam on his way to the prayers service. The troops, the army leaders, and the noblemen were all in their best attire, on back of their horses, waiting for the Imam to come out. The imam (as) had a bath, put on his clothes with a white headgear made of cotton. He wrapped his head with it and left one end on his chest and the other between his shoulders. He used some perfume then said to his companions, "Do as I do".

He came out bare-footed, with his garment's sleeves up and his head towards the heavens as he shouted: ALLAHU AKBAR! Allah is the Greatest". People echoed his words. When the officials saw him walk, they alighted from their horses and walked behind him bare-footed in splendid grace. The Imam glorified Allah and people glorified Him after him. Glorifications could be heard everywhere and all people left their homes and crowded along the road sides. It was an event like no other in the town's history.

In fact, on seeing him, they remembered the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.), his grandfather. They were taken by the grace that overwhelmed him. He walked humbly performing a religious ritual in the presence of Allah the Almighty. However, AL-MAMOUN wanted him to attend prayers in a royal procession amid decoration and grandeur and thus be exploited by the rulers after seeing their power and dreadful status.

Yet, the Imam was not to make such a show of the religious celebration, a Divine ritual of spiritual sacredness. Submission to Allah only should be demonstrated and all should glorify Allah and worship Him and only Him. There was a big difference between AL-MAMOUN'S intention behind the Imam's prayers and the Imam's performance thereof. AL-MAMOUN had no other way but to halt the performance of such prayers. He immediately sent to IMAM AL-RIDHA a message saying, "We have asked you more than necessary and caused you trouble, O son of the Messenger of Allah! So, rest and someone else will lead the prayers".

The Imam was relieved of the duty. He went back home. On that occasion, AL-MAMOUN saw how wholeheartedly the people responded to the Imam, how they were greatly attracted to him. He felt a bitter envy and remembered how his father, AL-RASHID, had treated AL-RIDHA'S father, IMAM AL-KADHIM. He saw how AL-RASHID respected him while AL-MAMOUN at that time did not know the Imam. He asked his father later about him. He said to him, "Who is that man whom you have greatly honored? You stood up for him and seated him nest to you".

AL-RASHID said, "He is the Imam of all Muslims, the Divine sign for people, His caliph on earth". AL-MAMOUN said, "Are not you with such qualifications?" AL-RASHID said, "I am the people's caliph by force and oppression. MUSA IBN JA'FER (IMAM AL-KADHIM[AS]) is the actual leader through his kinship to the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.). He has the full right of being in this office more than I am". AL-MAMOUN said, "If it is his own right, then step aside and let him have it". AL-RASHID said, "Kingship is barren. By Allah, if you become my rival in its regard, I will take your life away".

AL-MAMOUN remembered that conversation which still rang in his ears: "By Allah, if you become my rival…., I will take your life away". He wondered: How could he allow that man to have the people's support and great devotion? They yearned to see him, and he was greatly honored. Why should he give it up to him? Had not he killed his own brother for the sake of this kingship? He remembered all that and made up his mind to get rid of that concern and put himself at ease. He would get rid of the Imam by all means. It did take him long to achieve his goal. IMAM AL-RIDHA spent less than two years as a crown prince before he was blessed with martyrdom through poisoned grapes.

AL-MAMOUN was accused of the murder, but he denied it and made a show of his sadness. The Imam was blessed with martyrdom in the year 203 of HIJRA in TOOS and was buried in MASHHAD, KHURASAN. He was heard saying, "Whoever visits me in my residence will be in my company in Paradise". Peace and blessing of Allah be upon him.

Prophet Mohammad's Daughter :Fatima Al-Zahra (AS)

LINEAGE

Fatima is the daughter of the Messenger of Allah, Mohammed (P.B.U.H). her mother is KHADIJAH BINT KHUWAYLID. Fatima was born eight years prior to the immigration (HIJRA) of the Prophet to YATHRIB (AL-MEDINA), on the 20th of JAMADI AL-THANI (Lunar Calendar) in the holy city of Mecca. She died in AL-Medina on the 3rd of JAMADI AL-THANI, eleven years after the HIJRA and was buried there. Fatima (as) is remembers by the believers as a symbol of purity, chastity, and virtue. The oppressed one remembers how she suffered oppression and injustices, hence he tolerates his suffering and hardship.

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم إنا أعطيناك الكوثر* فصل لربك وانحر* إن شانئك هو الأبتر

Righteous wives recall her life as a wife of Ali (as) and consider her as a role model of the righteous wife.

Mothers remember her sublime statue as a mother of the infallible Imams, thus they follow in her footsteps in raising their children. Fathers remember how she grew up in the lap of the Messenger of Allah, the Prophet (P.B.U.H), who prepared her for the highest status of a believing woman.

A WOMAN OF VIRTUE

Prior to telling Fatima's story, her mother, Lady KHADIJAH, should first be mentioned. Lady KHADIJAH was one of the wealthiest women in holy Mecca. Many prominent figures desired to marry her for her wealth, but she rejected all those who proposed to her. She surprised them by her choice to marry Mohammed the son of ABDILLAH, the truthful young man who was not at all among the rich, though he belonged to the best family among the QURAYSHIS.

Men and women of Mecca criticized her for such a choice but she paid no attention to them and did not change her mind. In fact, she was quite a wise lady who chose the best life's partner, though most people could not comprehend that fact. KHADIJAH was a woman of talent and brilliant intellect. No wonder she raised such a sublime daughter like Fatima (as).

THE SECLUSION

KHADIJAH and Mohammed led for many years a happy and peaceful life till he was chosen to be a Prophet entrusted with the Divine mission of Islam. Lady KHADIJAH was the first woman to believe in him, and she supported him with all her might and means. The arrogant and the idolaters of Mecca demonstrated their hostility towards Mohammed, causing him a great deal of hardship. A social and economic ban was imposed on Mohammed and his followers. The good wife endured the hardships for the sake of Allah and His religion, Islam. She comforted her husband and shared his concerns. She all her affairs.

THE BLESSED BIRTH OF FATIMA

New signs seemed to bring the good tiding of relief when KHADIJAH was pregnant with a new baby who stirred in her womb. At the due hour of childbirth, and when the pain of labor intensified, QURAYSHI midwives refused to give her a hand and help her deliver her child. Allah's miracles happen quite often. During the time of her difficulty, suddenly the room was lit with a bright light. Four bright women appeared near her. They sat near her and gently spoke to her. They said to her, "Fear not ! we are guests sent by Allah". She felt at ease, so she relaxed. Quietly she gave birth to a female baby: Fatima, with the help of the four ladies who were: SARAH, PROPHET IBRAHIM'S wife, ASIA, the righteous wife of Pharaoh, MARYAM (Mary), the mother of Prophet Jesus, and KALTHAM sister of Prophet MUSA (Moses) (peace be on them all). However, there are some people who wonder at such miracles and are heedless of Allah's might.

Before Fatima, KHADIJAH had given birth to three other daughters. They were: RUQAYYAH, UMM KULTHUM, and ZAINAB. ZAINAB was married to her maternal cousin AL-RABEE' IBN AL-AAS. The other two were married to the two sons of ABI LAHAB who became a deadly enemy of the Prophet and ordered his sons UTBAH and UTAYBAH to divorce their wives. UTHMAN married both of them, one after the death of the other. Neither one of them gave birth to any children.

The only daughter who lived in the house of the Prophet was Fatima (as) who was of a uniquely sublime personality. She resembled her father in features and in high morals.

When the days of hardship were over, following the Prophet's immigration to YATHRIB, many prominent figures sought Fatima's hand in marriage but were all rejected. All the suitors hoped to enjoy the sublime status of being near the Messenger of Allah through marrying Fatima. But Fatima was Ali's dear cousin. None deserved being her husband except Ali (as), the Prophet's first supporter and the brave defender of Islam. It was Allah's will that none should marry her except Ali (as).

When the Prophet's two sons died while still children, the arrogant of Mecca degraded the Prophet (P.B.U.H), claiming that he would have no progeny. Allah refuted their claim. The QUR'ANIC chapter AL-KAWTHAR was revealed; in it the Almighty says, {Surely, We have given you AL-KAWTHAR (abundance in offspring), so pray to your Lord and make a sacrifice. Surely he that hates you is the one cut off}. [AL-KAWTHAR: 1-3].

THE BLESSED MARRIAGE

One day the Prophet's companions were at the Prophet's Mosque. They talked about the Prophet's only daughter, Fatima. ABU BAKR, one of them, said, "Many prominent figures from the immigrants (AL-MUHAJIREEN) and the Muslim's of AL-MEDINA (AL-ANSAR) have sought Fatima's hand, but the Messenger of Allah has not approved the proposal of any. However, Ali has not proposed to her yet. I think if he proposes, the Messenger of Allah will accept him". SA'AD IBN MU'ATH, the chief of AL-WAS, a tribe of the ANSAR, said, "Let us see Ali and encourage him to seek her hand. Perhaps we may thus do a good deed".

They left the Mosque looking for Ali. They found him in the city's outskirts watering an orchard for one of the ANSAR landowners. They greeted him, then ABU BAKR said, "Brother Ali, you are one of the best people. You enjoy every quality that pleases Allah and His Messenger. It is time for you to have a wife. Why don't you propose to the Prophet's daughter, Fatima? The daughter of the Messenger of Allah may be yours. We have all proposed to her and have been rejected. It seems Allah and His Messenger want Fatima to marry you".

On hearing those words, Ali felt great longing to get nearer to the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H) through marrying Fatima. But alas! He did not have enough money to give her a dowry. However, he was encouraged by them. He put his trust in Allah and made his way towards the Prophet's house. He expressed his great wish to marry Fatima. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) rejoiced on hearing Ali's proposal and said, "O Ali! Many men have already proposed to her before you. When I told her of their proposals, she turned away in disapproval. Now, you wait while I tell her of yours.

The Prophet entered her room and said to her, "O Fatima! Here is Ali son of ABI TALIB. You know his blood relation to you and his great struggle for the sake of Islam. I have prayed to my Lord to send you the best of His creatures and the one He loves most to be your husband. Ali has made a proposal to marry you. What do you say?" Fatima did not turn away; she silently expressed her approval. The Prophet glorified Allah and conveyed to Ali her approval of his marriage proposal.

FATIMA'S DOWRY: A SHIELD

The Prophet (P.B.U.H) came to Ali and happily said to him, "Ali! Do you have anything for a dowry?!" Ali said, "May my parents be sacrificed for you! By Allah, you know my own (financial) situation. I have nothing except my sword, shield, and camel". The Prophet (P.B.U.H) said, "You cannot do without your sword with which you fight the enemies of Allah. You need your camel to water your date palms and to transport your daily food. You ride it in your trips. But I accept the shield as a dowry for your marriage. Go sell it and come back with its price".

Ali (as) sold the shield for 480 DIRHAMS and came back with the money which he gave to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) It was the dowry for the most noble and honorable lady, the best among all creatures past and present.

The Prophet (P.B.U.H) divided the money into three parts. A third was for the new home's furniture. Another third was for perfumes and other necessary thing for the bride, and the last third was kept with UMM SALAMA (the Prophet's wife) to spend on the wedding day. He then gave some money to AMMAR IBN YASIR and SALMAN AL-FARISI and to other companions. He said to them, "Buy for my daughter what is necessary for a new home". They bought the necessary items which were: A gown for 7 DIRHAMS, a head scarf for four DIRHAMS, a bedcover made in KHAIBAR, a wooden bed, two mattresses of wool and fiber, four food dishes made in AL-TAIF, a wool curtain, a mat, a flour hand-mill, two bowls, a water-skin, a milk pot, a water pot, a copper container, and other such items.

They brought them to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) who checked them and was satisfied with the new home's furnishing. He said. "May Allah bless this household!". Some QURAYSHI men said to the Prophet, "You have married your daughter to a poor man". He said, "By Allah, I have not! it was Allah Who has ordered me to marry her to Ali. My Lord had informed me of this marriage on the night of my ascendancy to heaven".

THE WEDDING DAY

A month later, Fatima was still in her father's house as Ali everyday dept praying with the Prophet at his mosque then going home. He did not discuss the issue of his marriage again. One day, UMMU AYMAN and her other women asked Ali if he wanted them to talk to the Prophet regarding his marriage. Ali rejoiced at their suggestion, so they went to the Prophet and said, "O Messenger of Allah! Had Fatima's mother been alive, she would have rejoiced at her daughter's wedding. Now Ali wants his wife, so let the couple enjoy their life together. We will celebrate the occasion".

He (P.B.U.H) said, "Why has Ali mentioned this to me yet?" they said, "He is shy". He said, "Send Ali to me". When Ali come, he sat silently, feeling shy. The Prophet said to him, "Do you want to wed?" Ali said, "Yes, I do love to". The Prophet said, "You will have your wife with my pleasure".

The Prophet (P.B.U.H) asked UMMU SALAMA to prepare Fatima's bedroom, and other women to embellish the bride. Someone prepared her wedding dress, her perfumes, her make-up and her hair style. Dinner was prepared. A sheep was cooked and the Prophet himself helped in preparing the desserts of dates and butter. Ali went to the mosque and invited all the attendants. He said to them, "O people! You are all invited to dinner at the Prophet's house on behalf of Fatima daughter of Mohammed (P.B.U.H)".

they were more than 300 persons (exceeding the number of the fighters in the battle of BADR which had taken place few days earlier). They all had their dinner then left the house. The Prophet asked the HASHIMI women to accompany Fatima to her husband's house. He asked them to glorify Allah and chant decent chants. He (P.B.U.H) himself helped Fatima get on his own white mule and asked SALMAN AL-FARISI to hold the rein and lead the animal. HAMZA (the Prophet's uncle), JA'FER and AQIL raising their unsheathed swords up as was the custom then. The Prophet's wives and other Muslim women walked chanting lyrics and poetry. Everyone praised the bride in poems as gifts to her.

They reached Ali's house and the men shouted: "ALLAHU AKBAR!" Allah is the Greatest!" They shook Ali's hand, congratulated him, then left. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) called Ali and took Fatima's hand and put it in his (Ali's) hand. He said, "Allah blesses the daughter of the Messenger of Allah. O Lord! Bless them and overwhelm them with Your bliss! O Lord! I place them and their progeny under Your protection from the cursed Satan". The Prophet's companions gave their presents to the bride and the bridegroom. It was the blessing of Allah as in the QUR'ANIC verse: {…. That is the grace of Allah, He gives it to whomsoever He pleases, and Allah is the Lord of mighty grace}. [Iron: 21].

MARRIAGE LIFE

Ali and Fatima enjoyed their life of happiness in their simple house. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) used to visit them now and then on various occasions. He would talk to them about the virtues of patience and uprightness. One day he (P.B.U.H) said to Fatima (as), "Allah has chosen two men from among the people of the world. One is your father and the other is your husband".

Fatima was a righteous wife, hence she was not annoyed when her husband was often away, fighting for the sake of Allah. She would always prepare his weapons and other needed items for him. She would encourage him to always is for every believing wife! She was quite aware of her husband's sublime status as well as sacred status in Allah's sight, so she respected him as a woman respects and obeys her religious leader, her Imam. Ali was the dearest person to the Messenger of Allah. He was his brother (in religion), successor, and trustee. Ali respected her, too, and considered her sublime status, not only for her being his wife, but also for being the one dearest to the Messenger of Allah. She was part of him (P.B.U.H), of the same brightness, patience, and modesty, and she was the head of all women of the world. She was chosen by Allah for such an honor. The holy QUR'AN says:

{Surely Allah chose Adam and Noah and the descendants of IBRAHIM and the descendants of 'IMRAN above all nations. Offspring, one from the other, and Allah is Hearing, Knowing}. [AALI-'IMRAN: 33-34] Poverty never disturbed her life. She carried out the house work, grinding wheat and barley, cooking and baking bread. She was a unique model for believing women.

She was also quite aware of her duty towards the struggle for the sake of Allah. During the battle of UHUD, when her father was wounded, she was near him, addressing his wounds and comforting him. During the time of hardship, she was a woman of deeds, not a woman of tears.

THE REWARD FOR THE MESSAGE

In the 3rd year of HIJRAH, Fatima gave birth to her first son. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) called him AL-HASAN. A year later she gave birth to her second son, AL-HUSAIN (Junior HASAN).

The Prophet (P.B.U.H) greatly rejoiced at the birth of his two grandsons. He actually considered them a reward for his struggle and hardship in inviting people to Islam. He used to embrace the two children and say, "These HASAN and HUSAIN are my two sons; they are the two fragrant flowers, the heads of the youth of Paradise".

THE PURIFIED HOUSEHOLD

When the QUR'ANIC verse 33 (chapter AL-AHZAB) was revealed, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) was in the house of his wife UMMU SALAMA. The verse reads: {Allah Surely desires to keep all uncleanness away from you, O people of the House, and purify you with a (thorough) purification}. [AL-AHZAB: 33]. He (P.B.U.H) asked his wife to give him the YEMENI covering sheet (AL-KISA AL-YEMANI). He called Ali, Fatima, AL-HASAN and AL-HUSAIN to him and covered them, along with himself, with that sheet then said,

"O Lord! These are my household, my nearest and dearest. They are part of me; whatever hurts them hurts me, whatever saddens them saddens me. I am on war against whoever is on war against them. I am at peace with whoever is at peace with them. I am the enemy of their enemy and the friend of their friend. They are part of me and I am part of them. O Lord! Bless them with Your bliss, Your mercy, Your forgiveness, and Your pleasure. Purify them with a thorough purification". In fact, they led a righteous life free from all sins and errors. Their attributes were and are Allah's signs to all mankind, though most people are not aware of this fact.

FATIMA'S DISPLEASURE

The Prophet's great regard for Fatima was not due to her being his own daughter. Blood relation was not the criterion for him to evaluate the members of his family. Rather, it was on account of her great piety and awareness of Allah the Almighty. She enjoyed most of the Prophet's attributes. Allah Almighty confirmed the purified Fatima to be the mother of the infallible Imams. The Prophet often referred to her sublime status. As mentioned in SAHIH AL-BUKHARI, he (P.B.U.H) once said, "Fatima is part of me. Whoever makes her angry, makes me angry too". He once addressed her saying, "O Fatima! Allah is pleased at your pleasure and displeased at your displeasure".

THE FATHER'S DEMISE

Fatima's happy days came to an end when her father, the Messenger of Allah, fell sick and soon passed away to be near his Lord. Fatima's difficult days, the days of suffering, started when everything changed at her father's demise. A few of the companions appointed ABA BAKR as the caliph, and most people followed suit and swore the oath of allegiance to him. Ali (as) felt the Muslims' need for unity and for their firm stand against their enemies, so he made no demand of his right and preferred to remain silent.

Muslims have always been in need of unity against their enemies, and Islam will always be in need of it till the Day of Judgment.

However, Fatima (as) considered it her duty to warn the people of the grave wrong they were doing. She made her way to her father's mosque where the Muslims gathered around the new caliph. She publicly made it clear that Ali (as) had the right to the caliphate more than anyone else. She warned the Muslims of the great calamity if divisions settled among them instead of unity. The future would bring great evils if they kept silent and did not support the truth. She referred to her right to the FADAK property which belonged to her father and his household and never to the common people. The Prophet's daughter surely could not and would not claim ownership of something if it were not hers. How strange it was to tarnish her with such an accusation! Fatima is one of the five purified people according to the above quoted QUR'ANIC verse 33 of Chapter AL-AHZAB! There are other QUR'ANIC verses that laud her sublime status. However, many people were heedless of that fact.

FATIMA'S EARLY DEATH

Due to such hardships, Fatima felt sick and resorted to silence and seclusion. Women from the MUHAJIREEN and the ANSAR visited her during her sickness to wish her well. They asked her how she was feeling. She thanked Allah and praised Him, invoked peace and blessing of Allah on her father, then said, "By Allah! I now fully resent your world and detest your men…. Evil, indeed, is that which their souls have sent forward before them; Allah's wrath is on them, and in the torment shall they abide…. Why were they hostile to ABI AL-HASAN? By Allah they hated his unbiased sword for the sake of Allah…. Surely they are the mischief-makers, though they are unaware of it".

{Is He then Who guides to the truth more worthy to be followed, or is he who himself does not go aright unless he is guided? What, then, is the matter with you?! How do you judge?} [YUNIS: 35].

When the women conveyed to their men Fatima's words, their chiefs went to her to apologize. They said to her, "O Mistress of all women! Had your husband mentioned the affair to us, we would not have sworn the oath of allegiance to anyone else". Fatima (as) said, "Go away! You have no excuse after having been warned, and there is no order following your shortcomings".

THE LAST MESSAGE

Fatima's health deteriorated; she became quite aware of her imminent death. She said to her husband, "Dear cousin, I am informed of my death. Within few hours, I will join my father. I would like you to listen to my will". He said to her, "Make your will, dear daughter of the Messenger of Allah''! How difficult it is for me to miss you…. By Allah! My sorrows at the death of the Prophet are now renewed. Say what you want; you will find me trustworthy of fulfilling your orders; I will prefer your orders to mine". She said, "…. Bury me at night, and remove all traces of my grave. Don't allow those who did injustice to me to attend my funeral. "Dear cousin, if you marry, then assign one day and night for your wife, and one day and night for my children. Be kind to them, and do not let them suffer as orphans do. How quickly they had missed their grandfather, and how soon will they miss their mother!

"Woe unto the people who hate them and who kill them!" She (as) then had a bath and put on a clean dress, stretched her body on her bed and closed her eyes forever. She died smiling at the near reunion with her father.

Her death was real loss to Imam Ali to whom she had been a righteous wife, a life partner that lets him as she was in the prime of her youth. Her will was her last message: a clear lesson for those who ponder. She chose to be buried secretly so that those who did her wrong could not participate in her funeral or pray near her grave. With such a procedure, she made a record of her name as being one of the oppressed; thus, she recorded the injustice from which she suffered for all time to come.

When the people of AL-Medina heard about her death, they hurried to her house to perform the funeral prayers and walk behind her coffin. They were very sad when they heard that she had already been buried. Ali and very few of his companions performed the funeral prayers for her sacred body. Thus did the story of the Messenger's only daughter come to its conclusion. It is the story of Fatima who gave birth to AL-HASAN, AL-HUSAIN and ZAINAB AL-KUBRA.

It is the story of the wife who strived for her husband's rights. It is the story of the Prophet's daughter who was a copy of him in virtue and greatness. Fatima is the mother of all righteous people.

Whoever loves the Messenger of Allah loves Fatima.

Whoever hates him, hates her.

Fatima is purified by Allah the Almighty.

Peace and blessing of Allah be on FATIMA AL-ZAHRA.

Imam Al-Hasan (A.S.)

LINEAGE

AL-HASAN is the son of Ali son of ABI TALIB the son of ABDIL MUTTALIB. His mother is Fatima the daughter of Mohammed the son of ABDILLAH, the son of ABDIL MUTTALIB (peace be upon them all). He was born on the 15th of the month of Ramadan, in the 3rd year of HIJRAH (immigration of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) from holy Mecca to YATHRIB (AL-Medina AL-MUNAWARA), and enjoyed martyrdom on the 28th of SAFAR (Lunar Calendar) in the 50th year of HIJRAH, in Al-Medina and was buried in AL-BAQIE (a suburb of Al-Medina).

THE ERA OF IGNORANCE VIS-?-VIS ISLAM

The pre-Islamic era was stamped with ignorance and oppression. The most oppressive people were also the most arrogant and the most deceiving. Such people enjoyed a complete control over others and were respected by others who only wished to avoid their injustice.

The most oppressive family of the era of ignorance was the UMAYYAD family of ABI SUFYAN. MU'AWIYAH, his brother YAZID, ABU JAHAL, ABU LAHAB, and their likes controlled the affairs in holy Mecca and throughout the Arabian Peninsula. As soon as Islam spread its bright light, the arrogant ones' injustice came to an end. Good morals replaced bad ones, the humble common people regained their dignity, and human rights were achieved. The arrogant ones no longer had a say in the affairs. It was the advent of the new religion of Islam, and the era of the holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) and the righteous among his companions.

As the party of Allah achieved victory against the idolaters and infidels, the arrogant ones such as ABU SUFYAN and his likes had no other way but to articulate acceptance of Islam and the leadership of Prophet Mohammed (P.B.U.H). This took place in the 8th year of HIJRAH (more than twenty years after the beginning of the message), following the invasion of Mecca. However, those arrogant ones were never true in their belief in Allah and His Messenger, hence they harbored hidden hostilities towards the Prophet and his household, peace be upon them all.

THE INFIDELS AND THE HYPOCRITES

Following the demise of the Messenger of Allah, ABU SUFYAN and his infidel party conspired secretly against Islam. Their infidelity was still in hide, while their great concern was to halt the achievement of political and financial power by AHLUL BAYT (the Prophet's household). They strove to keep such power within their own control. Through plots, they achieved their goal, hence MU'AWIYAH IBN (son of) ABI SUFYAN proclaimed his domination over the country of AL-SHAM (greater Syria: Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon plus today's Syria). He accumulated a great wealth and forced his authority on the Muslim world.

Following the assassination of the third Caliph, OTHMAN IBN 'AFFAN, people swore allegiance to the Prophet's cousin and son-in-law Ali (as), father of AL-HASAN and AL-HUSAIN. As soon as Ali (as) became the Muslims' Caliph, the hypocrites and the deviated openly unveiled their hostility towards Ali (as) and waged wars against him. Thus, within a short period of time during his caliphate, he had to fight in the Battle of the Camel, the Battle of SIFFIN and the Battle of AL-NAHRAWAN.

It was the irony of fate to see the "followers of the camel" siding with "the followers of ABI SUFYAN" along with the misled KHARIJITES. The enemies of Islam and those of AHLUL BAYT mobilized their forces and raised their swords in the face Imam Ali (as). During the course of those events, three deviated men conspired under the claim of sparing the Muslims the perils of the deteriorated situation which they thought was the result of the confrontation of three dangerous men: MU'AWIYAH, AMRO IBN AL-'AS and Imam Ali (as). Theythough that they would reform the Muslim community if they killed all three of them at one and the same time. The result of their sick mentality was the martyrdom of Imam Ali (as), the pious and just caliph, while the other two survived.

IMAM AL-HASAN'S RULE

At such situations, when MU'AWIYAH'S mercenaries were in control of the Muslims' affairs, IMAM AL-HASAN'S (as) became the Muslims' Caliph. He had to face the worst officials the majority of whom belonged to the UMAYYAD clan. They had been in office since OTHMAN'S rule when they devoured the Muslims' wealth just as cattle devour Spring's fresh buds.

Imam AL-HASAN'S Caliphate covered large areas of the Muslim world including: Persia, KHURASAN, Yemen, HIJAZ, KUFA and BASRA (Iraq). Although the people of those countries had sworn allegiance to the Imam (as), the area suffered unrest as a result of MU'AWIYAH'S conspiracy. They Imam knew that MU'AWIYAH was personally making preparations to fight him, so he sent his envoys to the governors of the region to get ready to fight back. He (as) also sent a letter to MU'AWIYAH to warn and to advise him through reasonable facts relevant to the Imam's right to the caliphate. He confirmed his concern about the Muslims' unity and the safety of Islam, demanding an end to fights and quarrels. He wanted him to be wise enough to accept his advice and to avoid divisions that would lead the Muslim community to destruction. He informed him of his decision to fight him if he did not comply.

THE FINAL JUDGMENT IS WITH ALLAH

MU'AWIYAH, whose concern was only to achieve power and seize the caliphate, lent a deaf ear to Imam AL-HASAN'S letter. MU'AWIYAH was ready to commit every crime in order to be the leader. He sent his spies and got in touch with the Imam's army leaders. He bribed some leaders and promised others with high offices if they abandoned their Imam and joined him. Many accepted the bribes and joined the enemy's camp in broad daylight. Others conspired even to lay their hand on their legitimate Imam and hand him over to MU'AWIYAH. Thus, they violated their vows of allegiance and betrayed their sublime leader. MU'AWIYAH, the cunning fox, advised them to stay in office till the battle time, then to leave their Imam alone to face his defeat.

Within few months of secret plots, MU'AWIYAH managed to have most of the tribes' chiefs on his side. Those tribes' chiefs knew that Imam AL-HASAN'S rule would be similar to his father's, hence they expected no gains from him, while MU'AWIYAH was flooding them with gifts, they preferred this world to the hereafter and sold their religion for this life's pleasures.

THE AGGRESSOR ARMY

The army of MU'AWIYAH made its way towards KUFA, the then capital of Imam AL-HASAN'S (as). The Imam, in turn, encouraged his army to fight, but his efforts were in vain. Only a few were ready to obey him. The majority were in groups of different opinions. This made it difficult for him to unite them or to fight the enemy. IMAM AL-HASAN entrusted his cousin UBAYED-ALLAH IBN ABBAS, with the leadership of his army. Everyone knew him as one of the first QURAYSHIS to swear allegiance to Imam AL-HASAN. He was very highly respected and obeyed. Moreover, he greatly hated MU'AWIYAH whose mercenaries killed both of his children.

UBAYD-ALLAH'S army numbered 12,000 as IMAM AL-HASAN led another army towards Al-Medina (Iraq) and camped there. He planned to defeat the large army of MU'AWIYAH. MU'AWIYAH was still suffering from his bitter defeat at the Battle of SIFFIN when Ali's brave men were abouttoe defeat MU'AWIYAH who escaped though a trick. MU'AWIYAH, therefore, decided to apply more tricks to avoid the war. He secretly contacted UBAYD-ALLAH and offered him a million DIRHAMS if he refrained from fighting him. MU'AWIYAH was ready to pay him half a million at KUFA and the other half later only if he joined his camp.

UBAYD-ALLAH was at a loss few days. He knew that very few tribes came to help IMAM AL-HASAN while many of them joined MU'AWIYAH'S camp. He was sure of MU'AWIYAH'S victory, so why should he hesitate? The offer was quite tempting, hence he made his shameful decision to accept it. at mid-night, along with a few of his men, he made his way to MU'AWIYAH'S camp. He made his choice and sold the religion of Allah, the Messenger of Allah, and his Imam, for such a petty price.

The people gathered at dawn to pray at the mosque. They waited for UBAYD-ALLAH to it in its fight against the enemy. They waited and waited only in vain! UBAYD-ALLAH did not attend the prayers, and the secret was made public! They heard someone from the enemy's camp calling: "O people! Go home! UBAYD-ALLAH and his men are in MU'AWIYAH'S camp! They have chosen reconciliation! There is no good in brothers fighting each other!" UBAYD-ALLAH was the second important man after the Imam himself in leading the army, hence his treason was a major blow. He was a religious scholar; therefore, many were fooled by his call for peace, so they deserted the army.

A group of the Imam's supporters realized the trick and tried to bring the others back, but they failed in their attempt. Only a few decided to die in defense of the religion and for the sake of the truth. They informed the Imam of their readiness to help. The cowards and the deserters even spread the rumor that MU'AWIYAH had achieved victory against the Imam's army, hence the others found it a good excuse to return to their homes in KUFA. That was the story repeated with Imam AL-HASAN (AS): the KHARIJITES had by then found an excuse to give up the fight and even assassinate their own Imam Ali (as).

Could such people be Muslims or claim to defend Islam while they helped the enemies of Islam achieve their devilish goals? Throughout history, hypocrites play the same role. They are not sincere in their faith, so they turn away rather than face death. The real believers are always firm in conviction and ready to die for the sake of their religion.

THE HARD DECISION

The Imam (as) had to either to fight and sacrifice the very few good believers with him or yield to a compromising reconciliation and endure the painful outcome. The Imam followed his father's footsteps when, 25 years ago, he rejected the hatful quarrel and tolerated the situation of being deprived of his right. The Imam through reconciliation could spare his righteous companions from a useless death. He accepted re-conciliation on special honorable conditions.

It was a bitter experience for the IMAM who was ready to fight since he was never afraid of death. But he was quite sure that his dear family would sacrifice first to defend him. His companions were ready to die before him. However, their death would not change the situation. Most people were misled and knew nothing about the real situation between the infidel MU'AWIYAH and IMAM AL-HASAN (AS), the Muslims' legitimate caliph. MU'AWIYAH managed to fool the people and claim to be the defender of Islam. People believed him because his real infidelity was hidden. They did not know that his only concern was to achieve power for his own clan under the cover of Islam. Had IMAM AL-HASAN been killed that day, no one would have come to know the truth. It would have been senseless bloodshed. Even such bloodshed of the infallible Imam would not have awakened the community from its coma.

Due to such a crucial situation, IMAM AL-HASAN (as) agreed to reconcile. Thus, the confrontation was postponed till the day when the true face of MU'AWIYAH would be exposed and people would know the truth and fight for it.

Many of the Imam's followers were vexed at the outcome, and some were even rude, except IMAM AL-HUSAIN (AS) who approved of his brother's decision. In fact, many are heedless of the fact that objection to the Imam's or Prophet's decisions is objection to the QUR'ANIC instructions which confirm the infallibility of these figures. Hence, their decisions should always be accepted, in wars and in peace. Rejection of the Imams' decision means rejection of the Prophet's (P.B.U.H) decision. A Prophetic tradition says: "AL-HASAN and AL-HUSAIN are leaders of the believers, whether they are in office or not".

However, it is the people's nature to make hasty conclusions without a deep insight or sound thinking. On achieving victory, MU'AWIYAH went to KUFA, the residence of IMAM AL-HASAN (as) and his followers. He got on the pulpit of its grand mosque and started slandering IMAM ALI'S companions and degrading the tribes' chiefs. He betrayed them and violated the covenants he had previously made to them. He called them names, thus disgracing them in public. Those who betrayed the Imam could not even enjoy the least gratitude from MU'AWIYAH.

In the wake of those events, IMAM AL-HASAN (AS) and his household made their way towards Al-Medina where they settled while the UMAYYAD clan dominated Al-KUFA. On the pulpit of IMAM ALI (AS), ZIYAD IBN ABIHI (a bastard) and later his son ruled the country. Those who sought excuses to justify their stance regarding IMAM ALI'S rule and later rejected his pious son's rule bowed their heads in front of MU'AWIYAH'S bloody swords. They at last came to know- thought too late- the important advice of the legitimate Imams. They perceived the great calamity that befell them. They regretted their own actions but such regret was of no use.

Those who, during five years of Imam Ali's rule and a few months of IMAM AL-HASAN'S, disobeyed the infallible Imams for trifle reasons or excuses, no longer offended MU'AWIYAH'S agents who had a free hand to do whatever they desire. None of them uttered a word of objection. No figures such as TALHA and AL-ZUBAYR raised the banner of confrontation. Not a single KHARIJITE made a show of sedition or disobedience. The hypocrites had their golden opportunity to play their role.

At the dark era of history, Ali's companions and followers were the only ones who confronted the tyrannical rule and were blessed with martyrdom. As for those on his pay list, they crept on their bellies and praised the unjust rulers. They never forgot to slander Imam Ali (as) in order to please the tyrants. How wonderful it is to confront the tyrants of history, yet it is impossible to oppose the One worshipped by all!

VIOLATION OF THE COVENANT

When MU'AWIYAH'S end came near, he feared the caliphate might be entrusted to IMAM AL-HASAN (AS), thus all his efforts of many years might go in vain, and the Prophet's household might return right back to the Muslims' caliphate. To MU'AWIYAH, that would be the greatest calamity, so he decided to poison IMAM AL-HASAN and get rid of him. With the help of the Imam's wife, he achieved his aim. Through this crime, MU'AWIYAH accomplished most of his devilish plan. The enemies of Allah and of His Messenger such as MARWAN IBN AL-HAKAM and his likes rejoiced and shamelessly threw their arrows at his holy coffin at the Imam's funeral.

MU'AWIYAH proceeded with his plan. He vested authority on his notorious son YAZID, the wine-drinker, the doer of evil, and the indecent infidel. MU'AWIYAH first made the people of AL-SHAM swear the oath of allegiance to his son, then he went to holy Mecca and to Al-Medina and achieved his goal without the least resistance; thus, the UMAYYAD clan survived in power. There was none like TALHA or AL-ZUBAYR to raise the banner of war. History repeats itself and people hesitate in time of need to support the truth. This hesitation encourages the tyrants to increase their oppression and aggression.

So was it when Imam Ali (as) tried to lead the people to the right path. Likewise, IMAM AL-HASAN (as) did his best to lead them to the right path. However, it is only Allah's will that helps one go along the right path. The holy QUR'AN says: {Surely you cannot guide whom you love, but Allah guides whom He pleases, and He best knows the followers of the right path}. [AL-QASAS: 56]. The Imam was quite aware of the Prophet's mission which was: to convey the Message of Allah to the people and to keep on preaching and advising them, whether they accept it or not; it makes no difference. Similarly, the Imam's task was to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet and to safeguard the religion of Allah: Islam.

IMAM AL-HASAN (AS) tried his best to show the truth to all people and make them aware of being misled by the false claims of rulers and by leaders who articulated Islamic beliefs while remaining infidels, enemies of the religion. The Imam (as) taught his followers to be patient and to tolerate injustice when it is for the sake of Allah. Through, he nurtured the seeds of revolution through the heroic role of his brother IMAM AL-HUSAIN. IMAM AL-HASAN'S achievement was part of IMAM AL-HUSAIN'S revolution. Thus, the Prophetic tradition regarding both of them is a clear evidence of their roles. The said tradition says:

"AL-HASAN and AL-HUSAIN are two Imams (leaders) whether they are in office or not"