The Fourteen Infallibles

Imam Zain Al-abidin (a.s.)

**LINEAGE

IMAM ALI son of IMAM HUSAIN son of IMAM ALI IBN ABI TALIB (peace be upon them all) was born on the 15th of JAMADI AL-AWWAL in the year 36 of HIJRA in Al-Medina AL-MUNAWARA. His mother's name was SHAHRBANO. He was blessed with martyrdom on the 25th of MUHARRAM in the year 95 of HIJRA in Al-Medina and was buried at AL-BAQIE cemetery. The Imam's mother, SHAHRBANO, was the daughter of a Persian emperor. There is nothing strange in that. History tells us that Prophet ISMAEL'S mother was an Egyptian maid in the court of Pharaoh. It is one sign of Allah's might that nations meet each other just as oceans meet each other and pearls are produced. Pharaoh's wife was a righteous woman through her belief in Allah the Almighty while Prophet NUH'S son an infidel through his bad deeds. The daughter of a noble Persian enjoyed faith in Allah and a Roman emperor's daughter became the mother of the 12th IMAM MEHDI who is still in occultation.

However, the hypocrites are not real believers in Allah, hence they have criteria other than piety and good deeds that bring one nearer to Allah the Exalted.

THE ISLAMIC ETHICS

When Persia was invaded by Muslims, the captives were brought to the city of the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.) in HIJAZ. Having looked at them, the caliph ordered their distribution on the victorious army leaders, as was the custom then. The caliph's order had a different impact on both sides: the captives and the victorious leaders. The former were sad while the latter rejoiced. The daughters and grandchildren of the Persian emperor YAZDAJERD stood humbly watching the distribution of the captives. They wondered what the future held for them. They sadly remembered their big hopes which until recently filled their hearts when they enjoyed a luxurious life of power and might. They wondered how matters could come to such an end! Could they blame their army leaders or their own forefathers? Had the big Persian, the ruler, KHOSROW (PARVIZ), or CHOSROES II who died in 628 of the Christian calendar, not torn the Messenger of Allah's letter calling him to Islam, would the result have been different? They had no answers to their inquiries. They could not comprehend Allah's word:

{Thus We requited them because they disbelieved, and We do not requite any but the ungrateful}. [SABA: 17]. While the caliph was looking at the captives, a young man approached him and said, "I heard the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.) say: 'The noble and honorable ones of their people should be respected. Their status should be considered'. These captives are of high status. As Muslims, we are not supposed to leave them in captivity. For my part, I set my own share free, seeking the pleasure of Allah and His Messenger". The man was none but IMAM ALI IBN ABI TALIB (as) whose words were appreciated by all. Immediately the other believers, AL-ANSAR and AL-MUHAJREEN, followed his footstep and set free theirs.

Peace and blessing of Allah be upon His Messenger who honored SAFANA daughter of HATIM AL-TAYEE, the man who was very famous for his generosity in the pre-Islamic era, though she was not yet Muslim. He set her free in regard due to her honorable status. In pursuit of the sublime morals of the holy Prophet, his truthful and trustworthy cousin ALI (AS) put Islamic ethics to practice.

Ali's action had a good impact on the Persian captives who felt at ease and no more worried about their future. They became sure of Islamic justice and tolerance. Undoubtedly, Islamic instructions and teachings do not discriminate between Arabs and non-Arabs, or between white and black. All are equal in rights and should enjoy the caliph's protection and care, since he is supposed to be the best man after the Messenger of Allah. They felt special love for Ali (as).

A DIVINE FAVOUR

Soon after this event, SHAHRBANO daughter of YAZDAJERD was chosen a wife for IMAM AL-HUSAIN (AS), the younger son of IMAM ALI (AS). She gave birth to a son who was named ALI AL-ASGHAR (Ali the Junior), known also as ZAIN AL-ABDIN (the best of the worshippers) due to his great piety and chastity. He is the fourth Imam from the Prophet's lineage. Some historians do not know the exact story of SHAHRBANO as it has been related. IMAM HUSAIN (AS) had another son called ALI AL-AKBAR (Ali the Senior) who greatly resembled the holy Prophet (P.B.U.H.) and who was blessed with martyrdom at the battle of KERBALA on the 10th of MUHARRAM the year 61 of HIJRA.

IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN (AS) resembled his grandfather IMAM ALI (AS) in bravery, patience and piety along with his sound knowledge and brilliant talent. Narrators say that when he accompanied his father on their way to KERBALA, he was full of determination and prowess. When the battle started, everyone had a sword and a shield. ZAIN AL-ABIDIN'S shield was a bit longer for him and reached his knees, He immediately bent the extra length then broke it out to have the shield fit. The attendants were surprised at his strength and praised his strength. Yet he could not make use of his bravery on the day of the battle. He suffered a fever that threw him in bed. It was Allah's will that he should be sick at that apex of the fight, hence be was spared martyrdom at that age in order to survive and play his role in keeping the Prophet's progeny safe, despite the tyrants' decision to end all of IMAM HUSAIN'S offspring.

It was Allah's will that protected him and kept him alive while all other males were blessed with martyrdom at the battle of KERBALA. They left a bright record in the Islamic history though their struggle against oppression while their enemies are cursed throughout history. At the end of that tragic event, women and children were chained then taken to KUFA accompanied by IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN.

FACING THE INFIDEL IBN ZIAD

At the city of KUFA, the infidel IBN ZIAD made a show of arrogance and merry-making. His mercenaries surrounded him, so he could insult the captives as much as he could, using malicious words against them.

No one dared utter a word for fear of his cruelty. When he saw IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN, he said, "Who are you?" The Imam (as) answered, "I am Ali son of AL-HUSAIN". The tyrant said, "Has not Allah killed Ali son of AL-HUSAIN?" The Imam said, "I had a brother called Ali; the people killed him". IBN ZIAD said, "Surely, Allah had killed him". The Imam said, "Allah takes the souls at death". IBN ZIAD was vexed because the Imam refuted his claims. He shouted, "dare you answer me?' He ordered his mercenaries to kill him, but his Aunt Lady ZAINAB protected him with her arms and said, "By Allah! I will not let him go. Kill me before you kill him. Are not you satisfied with the blood you have shed of my men?" IBN ZIAD could not kill a woman, hence the Imam's life was spared.

FACING THE TYRANT YAZID

The captives, members of the prophet's family, were taken to AL-SHAM (Syria) where people were told that those captives were outlaws who stirred sedition, and that it was necessary to punish them.

Damascus, at the order of the cursed YAZID, was decorated to celebrate his so-called victory. The captives entered Damascus and were brought to YAZID'S court. The nobles and the officials were all in their best attire sitting on both sides of the tyrant who rejoiced at seeing the martyrs' severed heads. He recited some poetry to express his happiness at the martyrdom of the prophet's family. He turned to ZAIN AL-ABIDIN and said, "Your father had denied my blood relation and ignored my right to authority, hence Allah had done this to him". The Imam (as) recited the following QURANIC verse:

{No evil befalls on the earth nor in your own souls but it is in a book before We bring it into existence; surely that is easy for Allah. So that you may not grieve for what has escaped you, nor be exultant at what He has given you, and Allah does not love any arrogant boaster} [AL-HADID: 22-23].

YAZID ordered one of his mercenaries to ascend the pulpit and degrade Imam Ali and his two sons, AL-HASAN and AL-HUSAIN (peace be upon them). The man did so and insulted the righteous Imams. IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN said to him, "Woe to you, O speaker! You have bought the pleasure of the creature for the displeasure of the Creator, so get your seat in the Fire".

Then he turned to the people and said, "O people! If you know me, then it is all right, if you do not know me, then I will inform you of my lineage: I am the son of Mohammed AL-MUSTAFA (the one chosen by Allah), I am the son of ALI AL-MURTADHA (the one favored by Allah), I am the son…." He continued mentioning the sublime status of his grandfathers: Prophet Mohammed (P.B.U.H.) and Imam Ali (as), of his martyred father AL-HUSAIN (as). Then he related the tragic event of KERBALA which caused the attendants to burst in tears. YAZID feared the reaction, so he ordered someone to call to the prayers in order to disrupt the Imam's disclosure of the truth. When the caller to the prayers said, "Allah is the Greatest", the Imam confirmed: "None is greater than Allah". When the caller said, "I bear witness there is no god but Allah", the Imam said, "My flesh, my skin, my blood and my hair all bear witness to it". when the caller said, "I bear witness Mohammed is he Messenger of Allah", the Imam turned to YAZID and said, "This Mohammed, is he your grandfather or my grandfather? If you say: He is my grandfather, then you lie and disbelieve. If you say: He is your grandfather, then why have you killed his offspring?"

YAZID was at a loss of words. He blamed IBN ZIAD for the heinous crime, but none believed him. Finally he had to get rid of the captives and send them back to Al-Medina to avoid more exposure of the truth.

TOWARDS AL-MEDINA

The captives were released, and the Imam ordered the caravan to first make their way to KERBALA to pay homage to the martyrs' graves. They stopped there and shed hot tears on the sacred spot of martyrdom. Since then and throughout the years, the area has become a fortress of worship that relates the heroic roles of its figures who confronted injustice and oppression. Then the caravan made its way towards the city of the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.). All its inhabitants, young and old, women and men, came out to meet the bereaved members of the Prophet's family.

They cried bitterly and shed hot tears on hearing the details of the tragedy. They blamed themselves and expressed regret for their negative stance. They crowded round the Imam to offer condolence and prayed to Allah to forgive them. The Imam (as) stood up and addressed them saying, "Praise is due to Allah the Lord of the worlds, the Compassionate, the Merciful, the Master of the Day of Judgment, the Creator of all creatures. O people! Allah, Whom do I praise, has tried us with grave calamities. Islam has been grossly damaged. Imam HUSAIN (father of Imam ZAIN AL-ABIDIN) has been killed. His severed holy head has been raised on lances and paraded to people, carried from town to town. His women and children have been made captive. It is a tragedy of no like. O people! We have become homeless chased for no guilt nor sin, for no damage done to Islam by us. By Allah, had the Prophet approached them to fight s as he had advised them to treat us well, they would not have exceeded in hostility. We are from Allah, and to His shall we return. To Him we complain our hardship; He is Mighty in revenge on the unjust".

His words stirred great sadness in the masses that filled the place with crying and wailing. They sensed the great damage inflicted on Islam and were ready to rebel and revenge.

SEVERAL UPRISINGS

The tragedy of KERBALA was a big shock that awakened heedless people and stirred their abated feelings, hence several uprisings erupted against the infidel rulers. One year only after the battle of KERBALA, a revolution exploded in the city of the Messenger of Allah. The people attacked the UMAYYAD agents and followers. They repealed their allegiance to YAZID and chased his governor out. When YAZID heard of the revolution, he sent a big army led by MUSLIM IBN UQBA to invade Al-Medina. Several hundreds of innocent people were killed at a battle called AL-HARRA. The troops had a free hand to commit all crimes for three days. They plundered properties, destroyed homes, and raped chaste women. Finally, the people of Al-Medina gave in to the aggressive army and swear the oath fed to be YAZID'S slaves. They paid a high price for their indifference when IMAM HUSAIN called for help.

Another uprising started in HIJAZ. It was led by ABDILLAH IBN AL-ZUBAIR, the deadly enemy of the Prophet's family. He waited long to have the opportunity to assume power. The martyrdom of Imam HUSAIN provided him with such an opportunity. Under the cover of revenge for Imam HUSAIN'S blood, he declared his revolution. He never thought of AHLUL BAYT was quite clear.

On seeing revolts start here and there, IBN AL-ZUBAIR was encouraged to fight YAZID. He formed an army and started a battle near holy Mecca. Many people were killed and the holy KA'BA was thrown with fire balls by YAZID'S men. Before the battle was over, YAZID was killed and his men withdrew, in the wake of hearing the news. IBN AL-ZUBAIR enjoyed authority for a while until he was killed by AL-HAJJAJ during ABDUL MALIK IBN MARWAN'S regime.

One of the many revolts that started due to the battle of KERBALA was one very well-known as "The repentant uprising" (THAWRAT AL-TAWWABIN). It started in AL-KUFA in the year 65 of HIJRA, and extended to include AL-BASRA and Al-Median (Iraq), and was labeled: THAWRAT AL-TAWWABIN, after the name of a groups of KUFIANS who expressed their great repentance at their holding back in IMAM HUSAIN'S struggle against infidel YAZID, though they had previously sent him letters to come to KUFA and enjoy their support. They declared their sincere repentance and were led by SULAIMAN IBN AL-SURD AL-KHUZAE'. It is said that their number mounted to 16,000. the repentant left AL-KUFA and headed towards IMAM HUSAIN'S holy gravesite.

They put on their shrouds and swore never to return to their homes until they effected revenge against the killers. They tried to make up for their shortcoming in the battle of KERBALA by killing the Imam's enemies or being themselves martyred. They raised their voices calling revenge for Imam HUSAIN'S blood. Their shouts spread everywhere. When they reached the holy grave, they cried day and night then made their way towards the Syrian territory. They continued reciting the following QURANIC verse: {… therefore turn to your Creator (repentant), so kill yourselves, that is the best for you with your Creator, so He turned to you, surely He is the Oft-returning, the Merciful}. [The Cow: 54].

They met IBN ZIAD'S army on the way and were about to defeat him had no help reached him on time. They continued fighting until they were all killed. Thus they passed away as models of repentance and penitence; thus they left behind for the following generation to inherit the essence of revolution against all oppressors and tyrants of the world. In the wake of YAZID'S death, uprisings increased against the UMAYYAD rule. AL-MUKHTAR IBN UBAID AL-THAQAFI'S revolt started also in KUFA in the year 66 of HIJRA.

AL-MUKHTAR called the KUFIANS to avenge the shedding of the Imam's blood, and many people responded to his call. He put his hand on the official treasure and distributed the money on those who joined him. He controlled the affairs in KUFA and tried to enhance his office through writing to IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN (as) in Medina. He asked for the Imam's support and offered him allegiance. The Imam did not response because he was aware of AL-MUKHTAR'S personal interests. On receiving no answer form the Imam, he wrote to Mohammed son of Imam Ali (as), nicknamed IBN AL-HANAFIYYA (after his mother's name). AL-MUKHTAR spread the rumor that IBN AL-HANAFIYYA was the one entrusted with the Divine bliss and was AL-QAIM (AL-MEHDI) from the Prophet's offspring. He also claimed the support of IBN AL-HANAFIYYA; hence some people believed his lies and a new religions sect, AL-KESANIYYA, came into existence.

THE MIGHTY REVENGE

Anyway, AL-MUKHTAR chased the killers of IMAM HUSAIN (as) and those who participated in fight against him, especially their leaders such as IBN SA'AD, IBN ZIAD, and their likes. He spared none of them and revenged in similar manner of their own practice against IMAM HUSAIN and his companions. He was a deadly enemy of the UMAYYADS. Finally, he caught IBN ZIAD and beheaded him. He sent his head along with the head of IBN SA'AD, some presents, and a maid to IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN (AS).

On seeing the two heads, the IMAM (AS) threw himself on the ground in prostration, thanking Allah the Almighty. He said, "Praise is due to Allah who achieved for me revenge on my enemies. May Allah best reward AL-MUKHTAR". He (as) accepted the presents and married the maid who gave birth to his son: ZAID IBN ALI. ZAID grew up a firm struggler for the sake of Allah's religion. He led a revolt against the UMAYYADS' rule and was blessed with martyrdom. Thus, he conveyed the message of his righteous forefathers and struggled until he was killed for the sake of Allah.

IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIBIN PERSONAL QUALITIES

The Imam (as) resembled his two grandfathers: the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) and Imam Ali (as), in morals and ethics. He was of sound religious knowledge of QURANIC sciences. He was generous, pious and of sublime demeanor. It is related that he was one day in the presence of the UMAYYAD caliph UMAR IBN ABDIL AZIZ. When he left, the caliph asked the attendants, "Who is the most honorable of all creatures?" some of the flatterers said, "Your Excellency, you are". The caliph said, "No I am not. it is he who has just left".

This incident indicated his sublime status and the respect he enjoyed among the people. Another indication of his sublime morals and forgiveness is linked to MARWAN IBN AL-HAKAM, the deadly enemy of AHLUL BAYT, peace be upon them. AL-HAKAM was the one who advised Al-Medina's governor to kill IMAM HUSAIN when the Imam refused to swear the oath of allegiance to infidel YAZID. AL-HAKAM was also among those who fought Imam Ali (as) in the battle of the camel and in SIFFIN. Yet, none could spare AL-HAKAM'S family from the citizens' wrath and revenge except Imam ZAIN AL-ABIDIN. That was on the day when the inhabitants of Al-Medina rebelled against the UMAYYAD domination. The IMAM (AS) provided AL-HAKAM'S women and children a safe haven with his own family.

Such high morals are confined to those infallible figures chosen by Allah the Almighty. IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN'S qualities were not different from his grandfather's. the Messenger of Allah pardoned the infidels and the hypocrites after the invasion of Mecca. He (P.B.U.H.) set free all those who were supposed to be punished for their crimes against the early Muslims and the Prophet himself.

Similarly, Imam Ali (as) pardoned MARWAN IBN AL-HAKAM who participated in the battle of the camel. He set him free, though he could have punished him as a criminal of war. He let him go though he was sure that MARWAN would join MUAWIA'S camp and fight him in SIFFIN, as he actually did. Surely such is the HASHIMI generosity and forgiveness. His other outstanding characteristic was his unique generosity. Many needy families lived on his personal help. He used to carry food to them, under disguise, so they never knew his real identity until he was blessed with martyrdom and no longer came to assist them. They said, "We missed the secret alms at the demise of Ali son of AL-HUSAIN, ZAIN AL-ABIDIN, peace be on him".

AL-SAHIFA AL-SAJJADIYYA AND RISALT AL-HUQOOQ

His profound knowledge was extremely deep. Although he was not allowed to hold meetings to address attendants in mosque in order to guide them to the right path, he resorted to other means. He conveyed his message though DU'A and glorification of Allah. He left on record more than sixty supplications (DU'A) compiled in AL-SAHIFA AL-SAJJADIYYA, related later by his two sons, IMAM AL-BAQIR and ZAIN IBN ALI, along with other trustworthy followers.

Up to the present day, the believers recite those supplications and glorifications. They are full of Islamic ethics and morals that bring the believers nearer to Allah the Almighty. He (as) also recorded for his followers long pages telling them their duties and rights towards each other in 50 items known as RISALT AL-HUQOOQ. The items include all kinds of relations and duties towards: brothers, neighbors, friends, spouses, rulers, and so on. In addition, many sagacious statements are related to him (as).

There is no wonder at such abundant knowledge, since he (as) is the fourth of the infallible purified Imams who are inheritors of Prophetic sciences and Divine knowledge. They are bright torches that lead mankind to he right path.

Imam Mohammad Al-Baqir (A.S.)

LINEAGE

IMAM MOHAMMED AL-BAQIR son of Ali son of AL-HUSAIN (peace be upon all of them) was born on the first of RAJAB (Lunar Calendar) in the year 56 of HIJRA in Al-Medina Al-MUNAWARA. His mother was Fatima daughter of IMAM AL-HASAN (A.S.). he was blessed with martyrdom on the 7th of DHIL-HIJJA, in the year 114 of HIJRA, and was buried at AL-BAQIE in Al-Medina.

THE BLESSED OFFSPRING

IMAM AL-HASAN (AS) had a daughter named Fatima, after her grandmother Lady Fatima, the only daughter of the Prophet (P.B.U.H.). she was pious, pure and chaste, and she grew up in the house of virtue and Islamic ethics. She learned Islamic knowledge and QURANIC sciences at the house of Prophet-hood.

IMAM AL-HASAN (as) wanted his niece Fatima II to marry his son Ali II. They led a pious life of chastity. She gave birth to a son named Mohammed, nicknamed AL-BAQIR, with bright talents and vast knowledge. Prophetic narrations indicate which identified him as having vast knowledge, even prior to his blessed birth. That was Divine knowledge revealed to him (P.B.U.H.). AL-BAQIR resembled his grandfather, the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.) to a great extent.

CHILDHOOD AND THE TRAGIC EVENTS

When IMAM HUSAIN (AS) made his way towards Iraq and camped at a place named KERBALA, he was accompanied by his women and sons, including ALI ZAIN AL-ABIDIN and his wife Fatima and tier son: Mohammed AL-BAQIR who was only four years old. Thus the little child witnessed the tragic events of the battle of KERBALA. He witnessed the tragic martyrdom of his grandfather IMAM HUSAIN (AS) and of other relatives and followers who fell one after the other in the battlefield and covered the area with their noble blood. He also underwent captivity along with his parents and relatives when they were taken to KUFA and later to AL-SHAM (Greater Syria). He saw the holy head of his grandfather and other martyrs' heads carried on lances. He saw the people of AL-SHAM celebrate the occasion and YAZID'S hostility towards AHLUL BAYT (as).

He saw everything and heard every word; thus, he perceived through his childhood the tragic events, while he started learning Islamic sciences at the hands of his father IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN (AS).

He suffered from the tyranny of the UMAYYAD rulers as he was contemporary to YAZID'S regime and those of ABDUL MALIK IBN MARWAN and his two sons (AL-WALID and HISHAM). He also witnessed the aggressive policy of one of their most cruel governors: AL-HAJJAJ IBN YUSUF, a wild beast, who imposed a house arrest on the Imam's noble father while all other people enjoyed their freedom of speech and could say and write whatever they wanted. He, AL-HAJJAJ, deprived the holy Imams of their freedom and warned whoever came in contact with them. Hence, people could not benefit from his father's religious sciences, nor could they convey their religious inquiries to him for only one reason: His being the grandson of Ali son of ABI TALIB and son of IMAM HUSAIN.

However, there were many who were brave enough to get in touch with the Imam and enjoy his company. One of those brave men was JABIR IBN ABDILLAH AL-ANSARI, the only surviving companion of the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) until then. Eh was quite old and conveyed a message from the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) to IMAM AL-BAQIR 9AS).

JABIR used to sit at the Prophet's mosque and utter the words: BAQIR AL-ILM (cutting through abundant knowledge). The people of Al-Medina were amazed on hearing him utter those words often and thought that he was delirious. He would then swear to them that he was quite sane and was uttering only what he had heard from the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.). he (P.B.U.H.) one day said to JABIR, "O JABIR! You will live until you see a son born from my offspring. His name is my name, his features are my features. He will enjoy abundant knowledge, he is: BAQIR AL-ILM". Thus he explained to them his insistence on uttering his nickname.

One day, when JABIR was walking along the alleys of AL-Medina, he saw a boy whom he stopped and asked, "What is your name, O young boy?" the boy said, "My name is Mohammed son of Ali son of AL-HUSAIN". JABIR kissed his head and said, "May my parents be your sacrifice! Your grandfather the Messenger of Allah sends you his greeting". The boy in turn sent his greeting to the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) and hurried home to tell his father of that incident. On hearing it, IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN ordered his son to stay at home, for fear of the aggressive rulers who had put the Imam and his family under their surveillance. He knew that they would harm him if they knew of his future Imamate.

JABIR used to meet AL-BAQIR and discuss religious matters with him. He realized that the Prophetic sciences were entrusted to him. One day he said to him, "O son! You will solve different problems and answer all inquiries. O son of Ali son of AL-HUSAIN son of Ali son of ABI TALIB! You are among those who enjoy Divine sciences at an early age". Then he recited the following QURANIC verse: {O YAHYA! Take hold of the Book with strength, and We granted him wisdom while still a child}. [MARIAM: 12]. Nearly 100 years after HIJRA passed when IMAM ZIAN AL-ABIDIN died. He entrusted the Imamate to his son Mohammed AL-BAQIR who was then 40 years old.

THE ERA OF IMAM AL-BAQIR (AS)

During IMAM AL-BAQIR'S Imamate, two of ABDUL MALIK'S sons, AL-WALID and SULAIMAN, ruled successively. Then UMAR IBN ABDIL AZIZ assumed power, then ABDUL MALIK'S other two sons, YAZID and HISHAM.

Whoever of those rulers visited Al-Medina, he would visit IMAM AL-BAQIR due to his religious status among the Muslim. They would also invite him to Damascus. They wanted to keep him away from Al-Medina where they feared the people might be influenced by him, especially when the UMAYYAD domination was getting weak throughout the vast Islamic world. Such a situation gave the Imam a better chance to act, and it lessened the pressure on him, hence people could visit him and listen to his lessons and sermons. He used to hold meetings every morning when different branches of sciences were taught and religious education was conduced. Sciences during his time made a big progress hence the era was labeled "golden". A great number of Prophetic narrations are related by him.

His was also the era of Islamic awareness. Fifty years following the battle of KERBALA were enough for people to realize that the UMAYYAD who ruled under the cover of Islam were not at all real Muslims. Those great men (IMAM HUSAIN (AS) and his followers) who scarified their lives for the sake of Islamic awareness taught the others clear lessons. Hence the Muslim believers raised the banner of revolution against injustice, corruption and deviation. Revolts started in many places. KERBALA'S bright torch of martyrdom illuminated the road for them.

Many ALAWIS declared revolution but they failed. Even the revolution led by ZAID IBN ALI, IMAM AL-BAQIR'S brother, did not achieve success when his followers abandoned him. With a few of his supporters, he fought bravely but was finally defeated due to the enemy's great number. He was a pious, God-fearing worshipper, and very brave. IMAM AL-BAQIR (AS) and his family were greatly saddened by his tragic defeat, thus he was blessed with martyrdom.

Yet IMAM AL-BAQIR (AS) witnessed not only the UMAYYAD tyranny but the ABBASIDE one as well. Just as the UMAYYAD exploited religion to achieve their goal, the ABBASIDES raised the banner of devotion to AHLUL BAYT and struggled under the slogans of revenge for AHLUL BAYT'S martyrs, while they actually sought to achieve their own goal of authority and leadership. Hence, ABU Muslim AL-KHURASANI, ABU SALAMA, and ABU AL-ABBAS AL-SAFFAH became combatant strugglers.

THE SHORT RULE OF JUSTICE

When UMAR IBN ABDIL AZIZ became caliph, he tried to make up for the damage inflicted on the Prophet's household by the preceding rulers. At the order of cursed MUAWIA, the prayer leaders were ordered to curse the leader of all believers: Ali (as) from the mosques' pulpits. UMAR IBN ABDIL AZIZ immediately ordered them to stop the cursing , although he could not remove the black disgrace from the UMAYAYD history. He also ordered the return of the FADAK property to AHLUL BAYT after they were deprived of it for many decades. FADAK was Fatima's own property given to her by her father as a gift. The right procedure taken by UMAR IBN ABDIL AZIZ exposed the great injustice done to AHLUL BAYT by the oppressive rulers. He also ordered the recording of Prophetic narrations, something which was banned for a hundred years.

IBN ABDIL AZIZ'S rule did not last long (nearly two years). Soon after him, HISHAM IBN ABDIL MALIK seized power and increased pressure on the Prophet's family. This motivated JA'FER, the eldest son of IMAM AL-BAQIR (AS), to stand during the pilgrimage season, when thousands of men and women gathered in the sacred house, and introduce his father and himself to the pilgrims. He said, "Praise is due to Allah who entrusted Mohammed with Prophet-hood and honored us through him. We are the elite of Allah's creatures and the best of His worshippers. Lucky is he who follows us; miserable is he who opposes and hates us".

HISHAM'S brother MASLAMA was among the pilgrims and who heard those words. He saw how the pilgrims were influenced and how they crowded around JA'FER and his father (peace be on both), confirming their sublime status. MASLAMA felt a bitter hatred and conveyed to his brother the whole incident. HISHAM was vexed at the young man who dared speak to the people and call them to follow him and his father. He wondered: How dare JA'FER and his father declare their right to the caliphate? How could they ignore the UMAYYAD domination?

He ordered his governor in Al-Medina to send IMAM AL-BAQIR and his son to Damascus which was then the seat of the Islamic government. It was a beautiful big city with huge buildings and grand mosques.

IMAM AL-BAQIR and his son had no option except to set out to Damascus. When they reached it, they were kept waiting for three days before being called to HISHAM'S court. In fact, HISHAM intended to humiliate them in front of his mercenaries and court attendants. On the fourth day, he invited them to his court which was decorated at its best, surrounded with beautiful gardens. Guards stood in two rows on both sides. They were dressed splendidly, showing angry faces. The army leaders, dignitaries and UMAYYAD prominent figures stood with bows and arrows aiming at a certain target set up especially fro that purpose.

IMAM AL-BAQIR entered and saluted the attendants without addressing HISHAM with the title of "leader of the believers". This had a serious impact on HISHAM and on the attendants who were unable to utter a word. IMAM AL-SADIQ later related the event. He said, "…. When we entered, my father in front and I behind him; HISHAM shouted: 'O Mohammed! Take the bow and the arrow and shoot with the seniors of your folks".

"My father said, 'I am too old to do it; see if you excuse me!' "HISHAM shouted: 'I swear by Him Who honored us through His religion and His Prophet (P.B.U.H); you are not excused!'

"The tyrant thought the IMAM would fail in aiming at the target and thus would be degraded in front of the mob of the country. He pointed to someone to hand the Imam a bow and an arrow. The Imam took the bow, fixed the arrow and when it exactly in the heart of the target. He took a second arrow and threw it cutting the first one in half. He took another arrow and another one…. Until he used nine of them without missing the target "HISHAM was confused and shouted: 'O father of JA'FER! You are the best shooter of all Arabs and non-Arabs, yet you claim you are too old for it!' "HISHAM regretted his hasty praise and gazed on the ground, leaving the Imam still standing. The Imam became angry and, as it was his habit, lifted his head up and looked at the sky. When HISHAM saw anger on the face of the Imam, he stood up, went to him, took him in his arms and seated him on his right side. Then he said to him, 'O Mohammed! QURAYSH will still rule the Arabs and non-Arabs as long as it has men like you! By Allah the Gracious, it is well done! How did you learn it? when? Who aught you this? Can JA'FER shoot arrows as well as you can?'

"IMAM AL-BAQIR (as) said, 'We inherit perfection!"

"The tyrant was red with anger. He said, 'What?! Are not we sons of ABDI MANAF, of the same lineage?" "The IMAM (AS) refuted his claims. He said, 'We are all the sons of ABDI MANAF, but Allah has entrusted only us with His perfect knowledge and Divine secrets".

"HISHAM said, 'Has not Allah sent Mohammed from the offspring of ABDI MANAF to all people, to the White, the Black, and the Yellow?! How can you inherit what is not yours? Does not Allah say: {Surely We inherit the earth and all those on it?} how could you inherit this knowledge while you are no Prophets, and there is no Prophet after Mohammed (P.B.U.H)?"

"The Imam said, 'We have got it through Allah's words: {Don't move your tongue with it to make haste of it} [AL-QIYAMA: 16]. What he did not tell others he told us according to the order of Allah. That is why IMAM ALI (AS) said, 'the Messenger of Allah taught me a thousand doors leading to knowledge, each door leading to a thousand other doors'. The holy Prophet entrusted him only with that knowledge and it has been our inheritance rather than others of our folks".

"HISHAM was shocked and did not know what to say. He said, 'What is your need?" "The Imam said, 'I have left my family, wife, and children behind. They surely mess me". "HISHAM said, 'May Allah spare them missing you; go back to them and set out today".

THE IMAM DEBATES A BISHOP

While IMAM AL-BAQIR (AS) was in Damascus, he one day met some Christians who were on their way to meet one of their learned scholars during a religious celebration. The Imam accompanied them. The Christians lived peacefully among the Muslims and practiced their rituals according to their beliefs. IMAM AL-BAQIR attended that meeting and sat with the others. The Christian bishop looked at him. Since he did not know him, he asked him, "Are you one of us or one of the blessed nation?"

The Imam (as) said, "One of the blessed nation" The Bishop said, "are you one of its scholars or of its ignorant ones?" the Imam said, "I am not of its ignorant ones".

The Bishop said, "You claim you go (after death) to Paradise where you eat and drink but no defecate".

The Imam said, "Yes". The Bishop said, "Prove it to me". The Imam said, "The fetus in its mother's womb eats from her food, drinks from her drink, but does not defecate". The Bishop was stunned at the answer and said, "You claimed you were not of its scholars".

The Imam said, "I said, 'I am not of its ignorant ones". The debate continued for a long time until the Bishop was defeated. He became angry and said to his followers, "By Allah! I will not talk with you or see you for twelve months".

He thought they had purposely brought the Imam with them to defeat him in the debate. The above mentioned story spread throughout Damascus and the people became aware of the Imam's sound knowledge at all levels. When HISHAM heard of it, he made up his mind to annoy the Imam, so he sent his mercenaries to the towns along the route of YATHRIB (Al-Medina) to spread a lie claiming that the son of Ali son of AL-HUSAIN had joined a Christian monastery and had accepted Christianity. Thus, the people were ordered not to talk to his caravan nor to host them, nor to sell them food or drink. The people were even ordered to close their town gates in their faces.

The Imam's caravan left Damascus for YATHRIB. They reached one of the towns on their way. They were very tired and thirsty. They dismounted from their animals near that town to get some food and water then to continue their journey. They found the town gates locked and the people's doors closed. People usually act according to their rulers' whims.

The travelers were short of water, and the doors were closed; so, what could they do? The Imam (as) stood on a big rock and spoke to them gently and patiently, but they lent him a deaf ear, insisting on their stance. He then raised his voice and recited some QURANIC verses warning them of Allah's wrath just as Prophet SHUAIB had warned his people. He recited to them the following QURANIC verses:

{And to MADIAN (We sent) their brother SHUAIB. He said: 'O my people, serve Allah, you have no god other than Him; clear proof indeed has come to you from your Lord, therefore give full measure and weight and do not diminish to men their things, and do not make mischief in the land after its reform; this is better for you if you are believers}. [A'RAF: 85]

Then the Imam addressed the people of the town saying, 'O people of the unjust town! What remains with Allah is better for you! I am what remains". As soon as he uttered those words, one of their old men shouted at his folk, saying, "O people! By Allah, this is SHUAIB'S invocation. Fear Allah and open your doors for this holy man. If you do not, you will suffer Allah's wrath. I am a mere adviser to you, so listen to me". On hearing the wise man's warning, the people were afraid and realized their big sin of opposing their Prophet's grandson in order to please the oppressive ruler: HISHAM. They opened the doors and hosted the caravan and asked the Imam to forgive them. Surely in every person there is some feeling of pure faith that can be awakened in due time.

THE IMAM'S ACTIVE LIFE

The era of IMAM AL-BAQIR was the most crucial in Islamic history and the most important. During his time, various Islamic sects came into existence and political parties confronted each other. Strong return to norms of the era of Ignorance spread among the people. People started boasting of their forefathers' lineage, hence the tribal prejudice was stirred and conflicts appeared. The UMAYYADS encouraged such norms. A life of luxury, indecent practices, and unlawful accumulation of wealth could be noticed throughout the Islamic world.

The Imam tried his best to put things right and spare the people the deviated life. He set up centers for preaching and guidance in order to keep religion free from distortion. He also confronted the deviated sects through care for AHLUL BAYT'S School of Thought that was set up by his grandfather ALI IBN ABI TALIB (AS) and his grandsons, the purified Imams. Great numbers of religious scholars attended his school and benefited from his religious knowledge and QURANIC sciences.

He spent his life struggling for the sake of Allah. He confronted the anti-Islamic trends and the oppressive rulers. At the age of 58, a sinful hand of the UMAYYAD enemy poisoned him. The UMAYYADS feared his sublime morals, great piety, and graceful status that attracted who shed their blood for the sake of Islam. Thus he added to the bright pages of Islamic mission another bright page. He enhanced the community with elements of awareness and progress that brought about flourishing civilization.

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