Al-RidhaAl-RidhaThe Eighth ImamThe Eighth Imam

By A.S. Hashim. MDBy A.S. Hashim. MD

LineageLineage

Al-Ridha

Al-KadhimUmm Al-Baneen

Al-Tahira

Al-Saadiq

Zainul Abideen

Al-Baaqir

Ali

Al-Husain

LineageLineage

FatherAl-Kadhim

MotherUmm Al-Baneen

Al-Tahira

GrandfatherAl-Saadiq

Al-Ridha

Al-RidhaAl-Ridha

The first 10 years of lifeThe first 10 years of life

148-158H148-158H

Early childhoodEarly childhood

Al-Ridha was born in 148 Hijrah, and Al-Kadhim was Al-Ridha was born in 148 Hijrah, and Al-Kadhim was 20 Yrs old by then20 Yrs old by thenWas born one month after his grandfather Al-Saadiq Was born one month after his grandfather Al-Saadiq had diedhad diedAl-Ridha grew up in the laps of righteousness and Al-Ridha grew up in the laps of righteousness and piety, with love and tender care. piety, with love and tender care. Al-Ridha is tutored by his father Kadhim early onAl-Ridha is tutored by his father Kadhim early onMemorized the Quran and learned a great deal Memorized the Quran and learned a great deal about Islam quite earlyabout Islam quite early

Al-Ridha in his BoyhoodAl-Ridha in his Boyhood

Al-Ridha displayed a photographic memoryAl-Ridha displayed a photographic memory

Early on Al-Ridha:Early on Al-Ridha:Memorized the Holy Quran and learned the Memorized the Holy Quran and learned the meaning of its various parts, and the historical meaning of its various parts, and the historical background of some Ayahsbackground of some Ayahs

And even learned many of the Ayah’s And even learned many of the Ayah’s intricacies.intricacies.

He had an excellent teacher in his father. He had an excellent teacher in his father.

Al-Ridha in his BoyhoodAl-Ridha in his Boyhood

Al-Ridha learned about the unfavorable Al-Ridha learned about the unfavorable circumstances surrounding Al-Kadhim due to Khalifa circumstances surrounding Al-Kadhim due to Khalifa Al-Mansoor Al-Mansoor Enjoyed going out with his father Al‑Kadhim to the Enjoyed going out with his father Al‑Kadhim to the Prophet's MosqueProphet's MosqueHe often saw his father praying, saying Du'aa, and He often saw his father praying, saying Du'aa, and crying, especially at the Prophet's Mosquecrying, especially at the Prophet's MosqueAl-Ridha became the questioner, the investigator, Al-Ridha became the questioner, the investigator, the researcher, and his questions increased in the researcher, and his questions increased in complexity.complexity.

Al-Ridha in his BoyhoodAl-Ridha in his Boyhood

When Al-Ridha was 10 Yrs old Al‑Mansoor died.When Al-Ridha was 10 Yrs old Al‑Mansoor died.

As Khalifa, Al-Mansoor was extremely hard on Ahlul Bayt:As Khalifa, Al-Mansoor was extremely hard on Ahlul Bayt:

Dispatched many undercover agents for fear Imam Al-Dispatched many undercover agents for fear Imam Al-Saadiq might call for an uprising against his throne.Saadiq might call for an uprising against his throne.

Curtailed the activity of the Institute of Ahlul Bayt.Curtailed the activity of the Institute of Ahlul Bayt.

Al-Mansoor was a highly suspicious and un-trusting man:Al-Mansoor was a highly suspicious and un-trusting man:

Due to suspicion he incarcerated then bloodily murdered Due to suspicion he incarcerated then bloodily murdered a large number of Al-Hasan's progenya large number of Al-Hasan's progeny

He dispersed the rest of the family. That naturally led to a He dispersed the rest of the family. That naturally led to a revolt against him. revolt against him.

Al-Ridha in his BoyhoodAl-Ridha in his Boyhood

Al-Ridha noticed that his father [Al-Kadhim] was cautious Al-Ridha noticed that his father [Al-Kadhim] was cautious and prudent as long as Al-Mansoor was alive: and prudent as long as Al-Mansoor was alive:

Teaching during nighttime if the students venturedTeaching during nighttime if the students venturedHad to be more of a listener unless he was asked.Had to be more of a listener unless he was asked.Al-Kadhim had to answer by quoting the Hadiths and Al-Kadhim had to answer by quoting the Hadiths and give various Al-Ah'kaam only when asked.give various Al-Ah'kaam only when asked.

The oppressive environment caused by Al-Mansoor led to The oppressive environment caused by Al-Mansoor led to shrinkage of the Institute to a great extent.shrinkage of the Institute to a great extent.People were too scared to take risks, it was not humanly People were too scared to take risks, it was not humanly possible.possible.Both Al-Ridha and his father had looked into the Jafr of the Both Al-Ridha and his father had looked into the Jafr of the Corpus of Knowledge many times. It encouraged caution.Corpus of Knowledge many times. It encouraged caution.

Al-RidhaAl-Ridha

The second 10 years of lifeThe second 10 years of life

158-168H158-168H

Al-Ridha in his teensAl-Ridha in his teens

Al-Ridha observed that Khalifa Al-Mahdi was religious, and less Al-Ridha observed that Khalifa Al-Mahdi was religious, and less restrictive than his fatherrestrictive than his fatherTherefore the Institute of Ahlul Bayt became reactivatedTherefore the Institute of Ahlul Bayt became reactivatedThere were many intellectual centers in the Islamic world. There were many intellectual centers in the Islamic world. 

They were centers of learning in Medina and Mecca (Hijaz), They were centers of learning in Medina and Mecca (Hijaz), Kufa, Basrah, Egypt, and the emerging QumKufa, Basrah, Egypt, and the emerging QumMany scholars were sought after, but the majority referred Many scholars were sought after, but the majority referred to Ahlul Bayt's narration which was called the to Ahlul Bayt's narration which was called the Golden Chain Golden Chain of Narrationof Narration..

Al-Ridha heard his father Al‑Kadhim saying: Al-Ridha heard his father Al‑Kadhim saying: My narration is the My narration is the same as that of my father who narrated from his father up to same as that of my father who narrated from his father up to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

The Golden Chain of NarrationThe Golden Chain of Narration

Thousands of Hadiths were narrated and quoted Thousands of Hadiths were narrated and quoted through Al-Kadhimthrough Al-KadhimHe often said, He often said, "My Hadith is the Hadith of my father, "My Hadith is the Hadith of my father, and his is the Hadith of his father, up to Ali, who and his is the Hadith of his father, up to Ali, who directly narrated the Hadith from Prophet directly narrated the Hadith from Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)."Muhammad (pbuh)."   This is called the Golden    This is called the Golden Chain of Narration.Chain of Narration.These Hadiths were of immense importance, since These Hadiths were of immense importance, since they corrected the inaccuracies and set right the they corrected the inaccuracies and set right the contaminations which had crept into this science.   contaminations which had crept into this science.   

Golden Chain of Narration: (so far)Golden Chain of Narration: (so far)

Ali

Al-Husain Al-Hasan

Zainul Abideen

Al-Saadiq

Al-Baaqir

Al-Ridha

Al-Kadhim The Golden Chain of Narration

Quoting their ForefathersQuoting their Forefathers

Ali From the Prophet

Zainul Abideen From his Father

Muhammad (pbuh)

Al-Husain From his Father

Al-Hasan From his Father

Al-Baaqir From his Father

Al-Saadiq From his Father

Al-Ridha From his Father

Al-Kadhim From his Father

The Golden Chain of Narration

Al-RidhaAl-Ridha

The youthful years of life: 20-31 Yr oldThe youthful years of life: 20-31 Yr old

168-179H168-179H

Al-Ridha as a youthAl-Ridha as a youth

By the age of 20 years Al-Ridha learned that Khalifa By the age of 20 years Al-Ridha learned that Khalifa Al‑Mahdi (son of Al-Mansoor) had died.Al‑Mahdi (son of Al-Mansoor) had died.Imam Al-Kadhim was 40 years old by thenImam Al-Kadhim was 40 years old by thenAl-Ridha reflected back about the enormous material he had Al-Ridha reflected back about the enormous material he had learned from Imam Al-Kadhim:learned from Imam Al-Kadhim:

Al-Ridha was keen about the immense value of the Al-Ridha was keen about the immense value of the books left by Imam Ali, (al-Jaami'ah).books left by Imam Ali, (al-Jaami'ah).He had actively but discretely participated in He had actively but discretely participated in Discourses and teachings of Islam.Discourses and teachings of Islam.He knew that Imam Al-Kadhim, was the He knew that Imam Al-Kadhim, was the ultimate ultimate knowledge referenceknowledge reference of the Islamic world, of the Islamic world, Al-Marji' Al-Marji' ..

Ismah EmphasizedIsmah Emphasized

Ismah:  Ayah of Tat’heer: Surah  33 :  Ayah  33. Ismah:  Ayah of Tat’heer: Surah  33 :  Ayah  33. Ahlul Bayt are to be obeyed, not just revered; Ahlul Bayt are to be obeyed, not just revered; Imamah:  was of immense importance. A designated Imamah:  was of immense importance. A designated Imam was Imam was Ma'soom, Ma'soom, i.e., safeguarded by Allah from:i.e., safeguarded by Allah from:

1.1. religious error, religious error, 2.2. sin, and sin, and 3.3. forgetfulness.forgetfulness.

Those who ignore the Imamah will have ignored a Those who ignore the Imamah will have ignored a basic pillar in their faith.basic pillar in their faith.

Corpus of KnowledgeCorpus of Knowledge

Corpus of Knowledge Corpus of Knowledge consists of the consists of the

following:following:

1.1. Quran in chorological Quran in chorological orderorder

2.2. Tafseer (Mus’haf Tafseer (Mus’haf Fatima)Fatima)

3.3. Hadith (Saheefa of Ali)Hadith (Saheefa of Ali)4.4. Ah’kaamAh’kaam5.5. Al-JafrAl-Jafr

1.1. White Jafr: Prophets and White Jafr: Prophets and early timesearly times

2.2. Red Jafr: Rules of war in Red Jafr: Rules of war in IslamIslam

Al-Ridha in his thirties IAl-Ridha in his thirties I

Numerous Numerous Piety-minded Piety-minded communitiescommunities have have evolved; headed by evolved; headed by

its leader called Aalim.its leader called Aalim.

They were each active They were each active and many were highly and many were highly influential. To mention influential. To mention just a few there were:just a few there were:

1.1. The Shi'a (Imamah-Asserters),The Shi'a (Imamah-Asserters),

2.2. Al-HanafiAl-Hanafi

3.3. Al-MaalikiAl-Maaliki

4.4. As‘haab Al-HadithAs‘haab Al-Hadith

5.5. schools of Ibn Abbas, schools of Ibn Abbas,

6.6. schools of Ibn Omar, schools of Ibn Omar,

7.7. Murji'ah, Murji'ah,

8.8. Khariji, Khariji,

9.9. Mu'tazila, Mu'tazila,

10.10. Jabriah, Jabriah,

11.11. Qadariyah, Qadariyah,

12.12. Jah'miyyah Jah'miyyah

Al-Ridha in his thirties IIAl-Ridha in his thirties II

By the Khilaafah of Haroon Al‑Rashid the Institute of Ahlul By the Khilaafah of Haroon Al‑Rashid the Institute of Ahlul Bayt had grown to such an extent that it had held extreme Bayt had grown to such an extent that it had held extreme power.  power. 

It held a large sway and continued to be It held a large sway and continued to be uncompromising with Benu Abbas and exposing the uncompromising with Benu Abbas and exposing the un‑Islamic activities of the Khalifa and his courtiers.  un‑Islamic activities of the Khalifa and his courtiers.  The Institute had grown so influential and had such The Institute had grown so influential and had such following that it frightened Al-Rashid.  following that it frightened Al-Rashid.  The informants of the Khalifa were still around and The informants of the Khalifa were still around and their reports produced much distrust and suspicion.  their reports produced much distrust and suspicion.  For the Khalifa it was a dilemma as to what to do. For the Khalifa it was a dilemma as to what to do.

Al-Ridha in his thirties IIIAl-Ridha in his thirties IIIAl-Ridha asked his father Al-Kadhim about the caution:Al-Ridha asked his father Al-Kadhim about the caution:

““Our Shi'a are dispersed in Egypt, Iraq, Persia, Yemen, Our Shi'a are dispersed in Egypt, Iraq, Persia, Yemen, and Syria. Our representatives collect the Zakat and and Syria. Our representatives collect the Zakat and Khums funds.  Khums funds.  These funds are distributed to the poor and These funds are distributed to the poor and disadvantaged.  disadvantaged.  Why do we have to constantly be cautious.” Why do we have to constantly be cautious.” 

Al-Kadhim answered, Al-Kadhim answered, ““Son, the reputation of the Institute scares Khalifa Son, the reputation of the Institute scares Khalifa Haroon Al-Rashid, since the Institute brings to mind that Haroon Al-Rashid, since the Institute brings to mind that all of us, including the government should be Shari'ah-all of us, including the government should be Shari'ah-minded.  Al-Rashid may cause me harm, and I advice minded.  Al-Rashid may cause me harm, and I advice you to be cautious, very cautious.” you to be cautious, very cautious.”

Al-Ridha in his thirties IVAl-Ridha in his thirties IV

Al-Rashid was returning from Haj, when he stopped Al-Rashid was returning from Haj, when he stopped in Medina.in Medina.

1.1.Al-Rashid visited the tomb of Muhammad (pbuh) Al-Rashid visited the tomb of Muhammad (pbuh) and said, “O Messenger of Allah, forgive me for what I and said, “O Messenger of Allah, forgive me for what I intend to do.”intend to do.”

2.2.Then Al-Rashid gave orders to arrest Imam Al-Then Al-Rashid gave orders to arrest Imam Al-Kadhim without charges and Kadhim without charges and

3.3.Al-Ridha, the family, people in Medina and Al-Ridha, the family, people in Medina and everywhere were extremely distressed and upseteverywhere were extremely distressed and upset

4.4.This took place in 179H.  Al-Kadhim was 51 Yr old This took place in 179H.  Al-Kadhim was 51 Yr old and Al-Ridha was 31 Yr old.and Al-Ridha was 31 Yr old.

Al-Ridha in his thirties VAl-Ridha in his thirties V

They did not know that Al-Rashid (being apprehensive of They did not know that Al-Rashid (being apprehensive of attempts to rescue Imam Al-Kadhim) had:attempts to rescue Imam Al-Kadhim) had:

1.1. Ordered two camel‑domes to be prepared, in one of Ordered two camel‑domes to be prepared, in one of which he seated the Imam and sent him to Basrah which he seated the Imam and sent him to Basrah escorted by a sizeable military detachment.  escorted by a sizeable military detachment. 

2.2. The other dome was empty and it was sent to The other dome was empty and it was sent to Baghdad with an equal number of soldiers.  Baghdad with an equal number of soldiers. 

3.3. This was a move to confuse prospective rescuers This was a move to confuse prospective rescuers and distract the attention of people by keeping the and distract the attention of people by keeping the place of imprisonment unknown. place of imprisonment unknown.

The family of Al-Kadhim didn’t even know that the Marji’, The family of Al-Kadhim didn’t even know that the Marji’, the Imam himself, was taken away from amongst themthe Imam himself, was taken away from amongst them

Al-RidhaAl-Ridha

The period of 31-50 Yr oldThe period of 31-50 Yr old

179-198H179-198H

In charge while father in detention IIn charge while father in detention I

Having taken the place of his father, Al-Ridha is in charge Having taken the place of his father, Al-Ridha is in charge now at the age of 31:now at the age of 31:

And as foretold by his father, Al-Ridha carried on the And as foretold by his father, Al-Ridha carried on the responsibilities of the Institute in the absence of his responsibilities of the Institute in the absence of his father.  father.  He was also extra cautious in dealing with others.  He was also extra cautious in dealing with others.  The atmosphere however continued to be tense and The atmosphere however continued to be tense and somber for the years of Al-Kadhim’s incarceration,somber for the years of Al-Kadhim’s incarceration,That continued for four yearsThat continued for four yearsThen they were jarred with the tragic news:  that Imam Then they were jarred with the tragic news:  that Imam Al-Kadhim had died while in prison.Al-Kadhim had died while in prison.

In charge while father in detention IIIn charge while father in detention II

By now Al-Ridha had to limit his activity more or less to By now Al-Ridha had to limit his activity more or less to administering the affairs of the Institute.administering the affairs of the Institute.The Institute of Ahlul Bayt was restricted due to the pressure The Institute of Ahlul Bayt was restricted due to the pressure put on it by Benu Abbas.put on it by Benu Abbas.The Shi'a were spread over vast areas of the Ummah.The Shi'a were spread over vast areas of the Ummah.The Emergence of and changes in the Piety-minded societies The Emergence of and changes in the Piety-minded societies was fast taking place.was fast taking place.The Conversion of much of the indigenous Christian, Jewish, The Conversion of much of the indigenous Christian, Jewish, and Zoradusht population to Islam was going strong.and Zoradusht population to Islam was going strong.The Continued need for the effort of Ahlul Bayt to explain the The Continued need for the effort of Ahlul Bayt to explain the Ideal Islam as Muhammad (pbuh) had taught it, but under Ideal Islam as Muhammad (pbuh) had taught it, but under different conditions than any time before.different conditions than any time before.

Al-Ridha is the Imam: 35 Yr oldAl-Ridha is the Imam: 35 Yr old

Al-Kadhim was 55 years old when he died in 183HAl-Kadhim was 55 years old when he died in 183HAl-Ridha is the Imam at age of 35 years. Al-Ridha is the Imam at age of 35 years. Imamah means a designation (Nass) by the Almighty sent Imamah means a designation (Nass) by the Almighty sent down to Muhammad (pbuh) through Jubra'eel, then passed down to Muhammad (pbuh) through Jubra'eel, then passed down from one Imam to the subsequent one. down from one Imam to the subsequent one. Previously Al-Kadhim had given Al-Ridha the trust of the Previously Al-Kadhim had given Al-Ridha the trust of the Corpus of Knowledge that came down from Ali.  Corpus of Knowledge that came down from Ali.  Now Al-Ridha is in possession and in charge of them.   Now Al-Ridha is in possession and in charge of them.   

Emphasizing the service of Allah, piety, perfection of Emphasizing the service of Allah, piety, perfection of character, and good works in the society.  character, and good works in the society.  Musa Al-Kadhim died away from his home and the Musa Al-Kadhim died away from his home and the loved ones.loved ones.

After the death of Al-Rashid (193H)After the death of Al-Rashid (193H)

Al-Ridha intensified his works for Islam since he was not Al-Ridha intensified his works for Islam since he was not hampered during this period:hampered during this period:

the activity of the Institute (Al-Howza Al-Ilmiyyah) was the activity of the Institute (Al-Howza Al-Ilmiyyah) was at much higher level than before.at much higher level than before.taking advantage of the circumstances, students and taking advantage of the circumstances, students and scholars of various fields flocked to Medina to learn at scholars of various fields flocked to Medina to learn at the hands of Al-Ridha.the hands of Al-Ridha.The popularity of and sentiment for Ahlul Bayt was The popularity of and sentiment for Ahlul Bayt was quite high among people especially Iraq and Khurasan.quite high among people especially Iraq and Khurasan.

Al-Jawaad was born to Al-Ridha. Al-Jawaad was born to Al-Ridha. 

Al-Ridha’s PersonAl-Ridha’s Person

Appearance:Appearance:  Al-Ridha had an appearance commanding   Al-Ridha had an appearance commanding reverence and high esteem.  He had a radiant reverence and high esteem.  He had a radiant countenance, a cheerful look with repose.countenance, a cheerful look with repose.Discourse Capacity:Discourse Capacity: People held Imam Al-Ridha in utmost People held Imam Al-Ridha in utmost regard and were very attracted by his discussions.  It is regard and were very attracted by his discussions.  It is said that one authority had registered about 18,000 Fiqh said that one authority had registered about 18,000 Fiqh intricacies (questions) which Al-Ridha had answered and intricacies (questions) which Al-Ridha had answered and clarified. clarified. Personal Habits:Personal Habits:  Al-Ridha's care for the feeling of his   Al-Ridha's care for the feeling of his subordinates was such that at meal time he used to insist subordinates was such that at meal time he used to insist on calling on all his servants, attendants, and employees to on calling on all his servants, attendants, and employees to sit with him to eat.sit with him to eat.

Al-Kadhim says of Al-RidhaAl-Kadhim says of Al-Ridha

Al-Kadhim Al-Kadhim was quoted was quoted saying to saying to his sons,his sons,

““This is your brother Ali [Al-Ridha], the erudite This is your brother Ali [Al-Ridha], the erudite of Aali Muhammad (pbuh), ask him about of Aali Muhammad (pbuh), ask him about your religion and memorize what he says.  your religion and memorize what he says.  My father had told me that your brother (Al-My father had told me that your brother (Al-Ridha) is alike with Imam Ali.” Ridha) is alike with Imam Ali.”

Al-Kadhim Al-Kadhim was also was also quoted quoted saying,saying,

Ali [Al-Ridha] is the oldest of my children, and Ali [Al-Ridha] is the oldest of my children, and certainly he is the most devout and the most certainly he is the most devout and the most loved by me; and the two of us had looked loved by me; and the two of us had looked into the Jafr, while no one is allowed to look into the Jafr, while no one is allowed to look into the Jafr except a Prophet or Prophet's into the Jafr except a Prophet or Prophet's appointee.” appointee.”

Similarities with Al-KadhimSimilarities with Al-Kadhim

Al-Ridha loved to pray, say Du'aas, and do Sujood frequentlyAl-Ridha loved to pray, say Du'aas, and do Sujood frequentlyAl-Ridha used to perform Salat frequently, especially Tahajjud.Al-Ridha used to perform Salat frequently, especially Tahajjud.Al-Ridha used to often fast voluntarily during the year.Al-Ridha used to often fast voluntarily during the year.To perform Haj or Omrah Al-Ridha used to accompany Al-To perform Haj or Omrah Al-Ridha used to accompany Al-Kadhim traveling on foot, often walking for 25‑30 days. Kadhim traveling on foot, often walking for 25‑30 days. Al-Ridha used to go at night to distribute food, flour, and Al-Ridha used to go at night to distribute food, flour, and money to poor people without anyone knowing about him.money to poor people without anyone knowing about him.It is said that Imam Al-Ridha was instrumental in freeing about It is said that Imam Al-Ridha was instrumental in freeing about 1,000 slaves during his lifetime.  Al-Ridha used to buy slaves 1,000 slaves during his lifetime.  Al-Ridha used to buy slaves as soon as he could afford, then give them their freedom.as soon as he could afford, then give them their freedom.

Birth of Al-JawaadBirth of Al-Jawaad

Year 195H:   Two years after Haroon Al-Rashid had Year 195H:   Two years after Haroon Al-Rashid had died Al-Jawaad was born.  died Al-Jawaad was born. 

His father (Imam Al-Ridha) was about 45 years old His father (Imam Al-Ridha) was about 45 years old and married for sometime.  and married for sometime. 

Al-Jawaad was raised with utmost care and Al-Jawaad was raised with utmost care and gentleness by his family, under the exclusive tutelage gentleness by his family, under the exclusive tutelage of his father, Al-Ridha.  of his father, Al-Ridha. 

Al-Jawaad showed signs of brilliance early on, and he Al-Jawaad showed signs of brilliance early on, and he learned a great deal at the hands of his father.learned a great deal at the hands of his father.

CharacterCharacter

Al‑Ridha was renowned for being:Al‑Ridha was renowned for being:the most pious of men in his time,the most pious of men in his time,the most knowledgeable in Shari'ah and Fiqh the most knowledgeable in Shari'ah and Fiqh (Islamic Law), and(Islamic Law), andthe most generous and the noblest.the most generous and the noblest.

His nobility, goodness, virtue, and integrity His nobility, goodness, virtue, and integrity were proverbial, no wonder he was so were proverbial, no wonder he was so popular.popular.

Character IICharacter II

Imam Al-Ridha was uncommonly hospitable and a Imam Al-Ridha was uncommonly hospitable and a generous person, generous person,

1.1. Was famous for helping others when in need.  Was famous for helping others when in need.  2.2. The needy and disadvantaged, and those under The needy and disadvantaged, and those under

financial pressure were gladly assisted.  financial pressure were gladly assisted.  3.3. Al-Ridha's generosity was better expressed during Al-Ridha's generosity was better expressed during

the darkness of the nights, so that no one would see the darkness of the nights, so that no one would see him when giving.him when giving.

Al-Ridha held the poor with respect and paid special Al-Ridha held the poor with respect and paid special attention to those who worked for him, blacks and whites attention to those who worked for him, blacks and whites alike, insisting on eating with them at meal time.  The ones alike, insisting on eating with them at meal time.  The ones who were within close reach were his guests. who were within close reach were his guests.

Character IIICharacter III

Majlis:Majlis:  Imam Al-Ridha was the first to officially   Imam Al-Ridha was the first to officially commemorate Karbala event.commemorate Karbala event.Al-Ridha also stressed Karbala and its significance for Al-Ridha also stressed Karbala and its significance for Islam, and its long‑term influence for saving Islam from Islam, and its long‑term influence for saving Islam from being misinterpreted or misrepresented.  being misinterpreted or misrepresented.  Imam Al-Ridha stressed on people to:Imam Al-Ridha stressed on people to:

1.1. hold Majlis on the anniversary of Karbala, hold Majlis on the anniversary of Karbala, 2.2. visit the tomb of Imam Al‑Husain that had become a visit the tomb of Imam Al‑Husain that had become a

shrine by then, shrine by then, 3.3. understand the endeavor of Imam Al‑Husain, and understand the endeavor of Imam Al‑Husain, and 4.4. understand and emulate the works of Al‑Husain.understand and emulate the works of Al‑Husain.

Al-RidhaAl-Ridha

As Imam: to Khurasan: 51-55 Yr oldAs Imam: to Khurasan: 51-55 Yr old

199-204H199-204H

During Al-Ma’Moon’s ReignDuring Al-Ma’Moon’s Reign

Al-Ma'Moon urged Imam Al-Ridha to accept the Khilaafah or Al-Ma'Moon urged Imam Al-Ridha to accept the Khilaafah or Vice-regency.Vice-regency.After an initial refusal Imam Al-Ridha, so pressured, agreed to After an initial refusal Imam Al-Ridha, so pressured, agreed to be the Khalifa-in-succession (Vice-regent), with conditionsbe the Khalifa-in-succession (Vice-regent), with conditions

1.1. That Al-Ridha does not carry out tasks in the That Al-Ridha does not carry out tasks in the administration.administration.

2.2. That Al-Ridha does not appoint or dismiss any official.That Al-Ridha does not appoint or dismiss any official.3.3. That Al-Ridha would give counsel and advice when That Al-Ridha would give counsel and advice when

asked.asked.Al-Ma'Moon gave Al-Ridha his sister in marriage.Al-Ma'Moon gave Al-Ridha his sister in marriage.Imam Al-Ridha died within 3 years after the agreement as Imam Al-Ridha died within 3 years after the agreement as Khalifa Al-Ma'Moon was on his way moving to Baghdad.Khalifa Al-Ma'Moon was on his way moving to Baghdad.

On the Way to KhurasanOn the Way to Khurasan

Travel from Medina to Khurasan took 3 monthsTravel from Medina to Khurasan took 3 monthsAlong the route crowds rushed excitedly to welcome the Along the route crowds rushed excitedly to welcome the `̀Son of the Prophet's daughterSon of the Prophet's daughter'.  '.  All were anxious for his speeches, advice, quotes of the All were anxious for his speeches, advice, quotes of the Hadith and other matters. Hadith and other matters. In one town the people were crying and wailing, wanting In one town the people were crying and wailing, wanting the blessings of being near Imam Al-Ridhathe blessings of being near Imam Al-RidhaWhen they calmed down, Imam Al-Ridha gave a short When they calmed down, Imam Al-Ridha gave a short speech about the faith.  speech about the faith.  They counted the scribes [like reporters of today] and they They counted the scribes [like reporters of today] and they exceeded 20,000 in number.exceeded 20,000 in number.

Al-Ma’Moon welcomes Al-RidhaAl-Ma’Moon welcomes Al-Ridha

Al-Ridha arrived in Ramadhan, the year 201HAl-Ridha arrived in Ramadhan, the year 201HIt was 3 years after the end of the civil war between Al-It was 3 years after the end of the civil war between Al-Amin and Al-Ma'Moon.  Amin and Al-Ma'Moon.  Al-Jawaad was about 7 years old, and he probably was Al-Jawaad was about 7 years old, and he probably was with his father.  with his father.  The area was mountainous, lush, uncommonly coldThe area was mountainous, lush, uncommonly coldAlong with his entourage and dignitaries Khalifa Al-Along with his entourage and dignitaries Khalifa Al-Ma'Moon came out with welcoming arms.  Ma'Moon came out with welcoming arms.  Imam Al-Ridha and Khalifa Al-Ma'Moon began to negotiate Imam Al-Ridha and Khalifa Al-Ma'Moon began to negotiate Al-Ma'Moon offered Al-Ridha the Khilaafah but Imam Al-Al-Ma'Moon offered Al-Ridha the Khilaafah but Imam Al-Ridha refused it.Ridha refused it.

The 2500 Mile Route to Maru

Route to MaruRoute to Maru

Al-Ridha at Maru IAl-Ridha at Maru I

Together Al-Ridha and Khalifa Al-Ma'Moon started to Together Al-Ridha and Khalifa Al-Ma'Moon started to hold court to hear complaints and grievances of the hold court to hear complaints and grievances of the common man —and to present solutions.  common man —and to present solutions. 

People began to aggregate often, ask more boldly, People began to aggregate often, ask more boldly, and they received fitting and deserved justice.  and they received fitting and deserved justice. 

They left happy and very content with the judgment.  They left happy and very content with the judgment. 

They liked the congenial atmosphere, loved the They liked the congenial atmosphere, loved the sense of justice, and were grateful for the verdicts. sense of justice, and were grateful for the verdicts.

Al-Ridha at Maru IIAl-Ridha at Maru II

Al-Ma'Moon had an intellectual bend, and there was a need to clarify many Islamic conceptsAl-Ma'Moon often invited scholars or other leaders to visit the headquarters to present their point of view.Scholars came from near and far, traveled hundreds of miles to take advantage of the encouraging mood. As a result, sessions were frequently held to discuss and argue various points of view.  People knew that Al-Ridha was the man to ask, he was the ultimate Marji' (Authority).  They flocked to these sessions, especially scholars and leaders of:  As'haab Al-Hadith, Mu'tazila, Fiqh leaders, Christians, Jews, Buddhists and others.

Vice-regency of Al-Ridha Vice-regency of Al-Ridha

Vice-regency of Al-Ridha was announced on Salat Vice-regency of Al-Ridha was announced on Salat Jumu’ah, and ordering the preachers to pray in Du'aa for Jumu’ah, and ordering the preachers to pray in Du'aa for both Al-Ma’Moon and Al-Ridha before the sermon.both Al-Ma’Moon and Al-Ridha before the sermon.Changing the money coinage in the name of Al-Ridha.  Changing the money coinage in the name of Al-Ridha.  Many such coins exist even today in some museums.Many such coins exist even today in some museums.Changing the official color of the dress and flags to green Changing the official color of the dress and flags to green rather than black (the symbol of Benu Abbas).rather than black (the symbol of Benu Abbas).Condemning the detractors from Ahlul Bayt.Condemning the detractors from Ahlul Bayt.Giving back Fadak to Ahlul Bayt. Giving back Fadak to Ahlul Bayt. Officially establishing Majlis for Karbala all over. Officially establishing Majlis for Karbala all over. 

The 3 years in MaruThe 3 years in Maru

Al-Ridha in Maru was teaching, advising, and counseling,Al-Ridha in Maru was teaching, advising, and counseling,Numerous sayings and many books have been written about Numerous sayings and many books have been written about that. that. Despite being in the hub of the Khalifa Court, no change in Despite being in the hub of the Khalifa Court, no change in behavior was ever noticed about him:  behavior was ever noticed about him: 

1.1. he continued to be the same pious man with humility, he continued to be the same pious man with humility, 2.2. who cared for his subordinates and loved them for the who cared for his subordinates and loved them for the

sake of Allah.  sake of Allah.  3.3. Continued on calling his servants and attendants at Continued on calling his servants and attendants at

meal time to eat together with himmeal time to eat together with him4.4. On the day before Eid Al-Adha Imam Al-Ridha On the day before Eid Al-Adha Imam Al-Ridha

distributed most of his funds to the poor, and needy. distributed most of his funds to the poor, and needy.

Trouble in BaghdadTrouble in Baghdad

Baghdad revolts, Al-Ridha advices Al-Ma’Moon to move his Baghdad revolts, Al-Ridha advices Al-Ma’Moon to move his capital to Baghdadcapital to BaghdadFrom Maru the government officials, all the high-ups, the From Maru the government officials, all the high-ups, the leaders of the armed forces, and the Justices moved en leaders of the armed forces, and the Justices moved en masse toward Baghdad.  masse toward Baghdad.  After a few days the Wazir (Prime minister) was attacked by After a few days the Wazir (Prime minister) was attacked by some people and killed. some people and killed. When the crowd reached another town of Khurasan Imam When the crowd reached another town of Khurasan Imam Al-Ridha fell ill with fever.  Al-Ridha fell ill with fever.  It so happened that this town was the same town in which It so happened that this town was the same town in which the father of Al-Ma'Moon (Haroon Al-Rashid) was buried.the father of Al-Ma'Moon (Haroon Al-Rashid) was buried.

Al-Ridha dies: 203HAl-Ridha dies: 203H

The 55 year old Al-Ridha was sick for three daysThe 55 year old Al-Ridha was sick for three daysHis condition worsened, he fainted, collapsed, then died. His condition worsened, he fainted, collapsed, then died. It is reported that his condition was caused by poisoning It is reported that his condition was caused by poisoning through Al-Ma'Moon.through Al-Ma'Moon.Al-Ma'Moon showed grief and anguish. Al-Ma'Moon showed grief and anguish. Al-Ma'Moon insisted to be among those who carried the coffin, Al-Ma'Moon insisted to be among those who carried the coffin, crying, grieving, and looking miserable.  crying, grieving, and looking miserable.  Finally Al-Ridha was buried by the side of Al-Ma'Moon's father, Finally Al-Ridha was buried by the side of Al-Ma'Moon's father, Haroon Al-Rashid, the very one who imprisoned Al-Ridha's Haroon Al-Rashid, the very one who imprisoned Al-Ridha's father (Imam Al-Kadhim).father (Imam Al-Kadhim).It is said that Khalifa Al-Ma'Moon stayed at the site of the grave It is said that Khalifa Al-Ma'Moon stayed at the site of the grave for 3 days mourning the loss of Al-Ridha, eating very little.for 3 days mourning the loss of Al-Ridha, eating very little.

Contemporary KhulafaaContemporary Khulafaa

During his Lifetime, During his Lifetime, Imam Imam

Al-Ridha was Al-Ridha was contemporary to contemporary to the Following the Following Rulers of Benu Rulers of Benu AbbasAbbas

Benu Abbas:Benu Abbas:Al‑Mansoor, brother of Al-SaffahAl‑Mansoor, brother of Al-Saffah

Al-Mahdi, son of Al-MansoorAl-Mahdi, son of Al-Mansoor

Al-Haadi, son of Al-MahdiAl-Haadi, son of Al-Mahdi

Al-Rashid, son of Al-MahdiAl-Rashid, son of Al-Mahdi

Al-Amin, son of Al-RashidAl-Amin, son of Al-Rashid

Al-Ma'Moon, son of Al-RashidAl-Ma'Moon, son of Al-Rashid

Select sayings of Al-Ridha #1Select sayings of Al-Ridha #1

Among the qualities of the scholar is [to be] forbearing, knowledgeable, Among the qualities of the scholar is [to be] forbearing, knowledgeable, and to speak little, for such is the door to wisdom which brings forth and to speak little, for such is the door to wisdom which brings forth affection and leads to good results.affection and leads to good results.  Your best friend is your intellect, and your worst enemy is your Your best friend is your intellect, and your worst enemy is your ignorance.ignorance.  The generous person is:  close to Allah, close to paradise, close to The generous person is:  close to Allah, close to paradise, close to people, and is far from Hellfire.  The stingy is far from paradise, far from people, and is far from Hellfire.  The stingy is far from paradise, far from people, and close to Hellfire.people, and close to Hellfire.

For the pious person Salat is the means to be close to Allah.For the pious person Salat is the means to be close to Allah.  

Select sayings of Al-Ridha #2Select sayings of Al-Ridha #2

A Mu'min [believer] is one who delights in performing a good deed, and if he A Mu'min [believer] is one who delights in performing a good deed, and if he offends he will ask forgiveness. A Muslim is one from whose tongue and hands offends he will ask forgiveness. A Muslim is one from whose tongue and hands other Muslims are safe [meaning safe from his disposition and domination].  And other Muslims are safe [meaning safe from his disposition and domination].  And he is not our adherent the person who does not secure his neighbor from he is not our adherent the person who does not secure his neighbor from wrongful act.wrongful act.  The person who does not thank the benefactor from among the created, does not The person who does not thank the benefactor from among the created, does not thank Allah.thank Allah.

When prostrating you are closest to Allah; for Allah has commanded in the When prostrating you are closest to Allah; for Allah has commanded in the Quran:  “Prostrate, [O man], to be near [Me].”Quran:  “Prostrate, [O man], to be near [Me].”

Faith is based on four foundations:  a) to rely on Allah, b) to accede to the decree Faith is based on four foundations:  a) to rely on Allah, b) to accede to the decree of Allah, c) to submit to the orders of Allah, and d) to entrust Allah.of Allah, c) to submit to the orders of Allah, and d) to entrust Allah.

Visitation (Ziyarah) of Al-RidhaVisitation (Ziyarah) of Al-Ridha

�ِه� ِت ُح�َّج� �َن� َو�اْب �ِه� الَّل ُح�َّج�َة� �ا َي �َك� �ْي َع�َّل �ُم� َال الَّس� 'ِه� �ْي َو�ل �َن� َو�اْب �ِه� الَّل �َّي� َو�ل �ا َي �َك� �ْي َع�َّل �ُم� َال الَّس��ِه� �اُت َك �َر� َو�ْب �ِه� الَّل ُح�َم�َة� َو�َر� �َق�ى �ُو�ْث ال َو�َة� �ُع�َر� َو�ال �ُه�َد�ى ال �َم�اُم� ِإ �ا َي �َك� �ْي َع�َّل �ُم� َال الَّس�

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�َة� �َم�اَّن اَأْل� �َت� �َّد�َي َو�َأ �ِه� ُول ُس� �َر� اِء� َو�ل �َّج�َز� ال �َر� ْي َخ� �ِه� �ِه�َّل َو�َأ � �ُم َال �ُس� اِإْل� َع�َن� �ِه� الَّل اَك� َف�َّج�َز�َف�ْع� َف�اْش� �َك� �َع�َد�اِئ َأْل� N َم�ُع�اَّد�َيا �َك� �اِئ �ْي َو�ل

� َأْل� N �ْيا َم�ُو�ال �ْح�َق'َك� ْب N َع�اَر�َفا N �َرا اِئ َز� َم'َّي� َو�َأ �َّي ْب

� �َأ ْب �َك� �ِت �ْي �ُت َأ'َك� ْب َر� �َد� ْن َع� ل�َّي

�َك� �َّن ا ُه�َد� �ْش� ا �ِه�، َكاُت �َر� َو�ْب الَّلِه� ُح�َم�َة� َو�َر� الَّلِه� ُس�ُوِل� َر� �َن� ْب �ا َي َم�ُو�الَي� َيا �َك� �ْي َع�َّل �لَّس�َالُم� االَّلِه� �ل�ى ا ُب� �َق�َر� �ُت َو�ا ، �َك� �َع�َداِئ ا َم�َن� الَّلِه� �ل�ى ا � َأ �َر� �ْب ا َد�، ْش� �َم�َر� ال cَّي� �ُو�ل َو�ال �ُهاَّدَي ال ��َماُم� اال

. �ِه� َكاُت �َر� َو�ْب الَّلِه� ُح�َم�َة� َو�َر� �َك� �ْي َع�َّل الَّلِه� َص�َّل�ى �َك� �ِت �ُو�الَي ْب

Burial site nowadaysBurial site nowadays

For Details Go to:For Details Go to:

Islamicbooks.info then choose:Islamicbooks.info then choose:

Series of Islamic Books: Series of Islamic Books: Life of Ahlul Bayt Vol. IIILife of Ahlul Bayt Vol. III

Be in Allah’s CareBe in Allah’s Care

Thank you and May God Bless you.Thank you and May God Bless you.

Dr. A.S. HashimDr. A.S. Hashim