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Imams of the Shi'a: Difference between revisions
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'''Imāms (a) of the Shi'a''' are twelve men from the progeny of the [[ | '''Imāms (a) of the Shi'a''' are twelve men from the progeny of the [[Prophet (s)]] who are, according to [[Shi'a]] teachings, successors of the Prophet (s) and the guardians and leaders of the society after the Prophet (s). The first Imam (a) is [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] and the other Imams (a) are his and [[lady Fatima (a)|lady Fatima's (a)]] sons and grandsons. | ||
These Imams (a) are appointed by [[God]] and have [[divine knowledge]], [[infallibility]] and the right of [[intercession]] [for people] and one can get closer to God through making [[tawassul]] to them. In addition to religious authority, Imams (a) have the political leadership of the society. [[Verse]]s of [[ | These Imams (a) are appointed by [[God]] and have [['Ilm al-ghayb|divine knowledge]], [[infallibility]] and the right of [[intercession]] [for people] and one can get closer to God through making [[tawassul]] to them. In addition to religious authority, Imams (a) have the political leadership of the society. [[Verse]]s of the [[Qur'an]] have discussed the issue of [[imamate]] without mentioning the names of the Imams (a); such as the verses of [[Uli al-Amr Verse|Uli al-Amr]], [[Tathir Verse|Tathir]], [[al-Wilaya Verse|al-Wilaya]], [[al-Ikmal Verse|al-Ikmal]], [[al-Tabligh Verse|al-Tabligh]] and [[Al-Sadiqin verse|al-Sadiqin]]. | ||
In some [[narration]]s from the Prophet (s), the qualities, the names and the number of Imams (a) have been mentioned; such as [[Hadith al-Thaqalayn]], [[Hadith of Manzila]], [[Hadith of Safina]], [[Hadith of Yawm al-Dar]], [[Hadith of Madinat al-'Ilm]], [[Hadith al-Tayr al-Mashwiy]], [[Hadith al-Rayat]], [[Hadith al-Kisa']], [[Hadith of Jabir]] and [[Hadith of the Twleve Caliphs]]. According to these narrations, all of Imams (a) are from [[Quraysh]] and they are the [[Ahl al-Bayt (a)]] (household) of the Prophet (s) and the last Imam (a) is the [[Imam al-Mahdi (a)|Promised Mahdi (aj).]] | In some [[narration]]s from the Prophet (s), the qualities, the names and the number of Imams (a) have been mentioned; such as [[Hadith al-Thaqalayn]], [[Hadith of Manzila]], [[Hadith of Safina]], [[Hadith of Yawm al-Dar]], [[Hadith of Madinat al-'Ilm]], [[Hadith al-Tayr al-Mashwiy]], [[Hadith al-Rayat]], [[Hadith al-Kisa']], [[Hadith of Jabir]] and [[Hadith of the Twleve Caliphs]]. According to these narrations, all of Imams (a) are from [[Quraysh]] and they are the [[Ahl al-Bayt (a)]] (household) of the Prophet (s) and the last Imam (a) is the [[Imam al-Mahdi (a)|Promised Mahdi (aj).]] | ||
Also, there are many hadiths from the Prophet (s) in | Also, there are many hadiths from the Prophet (s) in hadith references about the imamate of Imam Ali (a) who is the first Imam (a). Also, there are hadiths from the Prophet (s) and Imam Ali (a) which have explicitly mentioned the imamate of [[Imam al-Hasan (a)|the second Imam (a)]]. Afterwards, every Imam (a) explicitly has introduced the Imam (a) after himself. According to these explicit mentioning, Imams (a) and the caliphs after the Prophet (s) are twelve. | ||
{{Imams of Shi'a}} | {{Imams of Shi'a}} | ||
== Position among Shi'a == | == Position among Shi'a == | ||
The belief in the imamate of the Twelve Imams (a) is among fundamental beliefs of the [[Twelver Shi'a]] and many reports from the [[the Prophet (s)| | The belief in the imamate of the Twelve Imams (a) is among fundamental beliefs of the [[Twelver Shi'a]] and many reports from the [[the Prophet (s)|Prophet (s)]] and Imams (a) in available [[hadith]]s references support it. Shi'a exegetes and theologians believe that the [[Qur'an]] has referred to this belief<ref>Nasir Makarim Shirazi, ''Payam-i Qur'an''. vol. 9, p. 182 ff</ref> implicitly in the [[Uli al-Amr Verse|Uli l-Amr]], [[al-Tathir verse|al-Tathir]], [[Al-Wilaya Verse|al-Wilayah]], [[Al-Ikmal Verse|al-Ikmal]], [[al-Tabligh Verse|al-Tabligh]], and [[Al-Sadiqin Verse|al-Sadiqin]] verses. | ||
According to Twelver Shi'a beliefs, the [[imamate]] of the Twelve Imams (a) began with demise of the Holy Prophet (s) in 11/632 and the imamate of [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] and have continued until now without interruption. Since 260/874, after [[Imam al-'Askari (a)|Imam al-'Askari's (a)]] demise and transition of imamate to his son, [[Imam al-Mahdi (aj)]], the imamate turned from apparent state to occultation and the long term imamate of Imam al-Mahdi’s (aj) has been in [[ | According to Twelver Shi'a beliefs, the [[imamate]] of the Twelve Imams (a) began with demise of the Holy Prophet (s) in 11/632 and the imamate of [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] and have continued until now without interruption. Since 260/874, after [[Imam al-'Askari (a)|Imam al-'Askari's (a)]] demise and transition of imamate to his son, [[Imam al-Mahdi (aj)]], the imamate turned from apparent state to occultation and the long term imamate of Imam al-Mahdi’s (aj) has been in [[occultation]]. | ||
Shi'a believe that Imams (a) are [[infallible]] and have [[knowledge of the unseen]];<ref>''Tarjuma-yi al-mizan''. vol. 13, p. 474</ref> and also believe that one can get close to [[God]] through making [[tawassul]] to them. Visiting the graves of Imams (a) is among Shi'a traditions and they are known to have the position of making [[shafa'a]] (intercession).<ref>Al-Tusi, ''al-Tibyan fi tafsir al-Qur'an''. vol. 1, p. 214</ref> | Shi'a believe that Imams (a) are [[infallible]] and have [[knowledge of the unseen]];<ref>''Tarjuma-yi al-mizan''. vol. 13, p. 474</ref> and also believe that one can get close to [[God]] through making [[tawassul]] to them. Visiting the graves of Imams (a) is among Shi'a traditions and they are known to have the position of making [[shafa'a]] (intercession).<ref>Al-Tusi, ''al-Tibyan fi tafsir al-Qur'an''. vol. 1, p. 214</ref> | ||
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{{main|Hadith of Twelve Caliphs}} | {{main|Hadith of Twelve Caliphs}} | ||
In addition to Shi'a hadiths, there are certain hadiths narrated in Sunni sources referring to twelve caliphs or imams after the [[ | In addition to Shi'a hadiths, there are certain hadiths narrated in Sunni sources referring to twelve caliphs or imams after the [[Prophet (s)]]. During the 1st/7th century, there are hadiths narrated from some of the [[Companions|Companions of the Prophet (s)]], giving the good news about twelve imams (a) after the Prophet (s) which were being circulated in various meetings. Among those hadiths, the hadith narrated by [[Jabir b. Samura]] which is mentioned in both ''[[Sahih al-Bukhari]]'' and ''[[Sahih Muslim]]'' is the most famous one. In this hadith, it is mentioned that emirs (imams or caliphs) after the Prophet (s) are 12 from [[Quraysh]].<ref>see: al-Bukhari, ''Sahih al-Bukhari''. vol. 8, p. 127; Muslim b. al-Hajjaj, ''Sahih Muslim''. vol. 3, p. 1452-1453; Abu Dawud. ''Sunan''. vol. 4, p. 106</ref> This hadith which is among the most famous hadiths in the Islamic world, was first mentioned in Sunni sources and then in Shi'a sources.<ref>cf. al-Nu'mani, ''al-Ghayba'', p. 62; al-Shaykh al-Saduq, ''al-Khisal'', p. 469 ff; al-Khazzaz al-Qumi, ''Kifayat al-athar'', p. 49 ff; Ahmad b. A'yyash al-Jawhari,. ''Muqtadab al-athar'', p. 4</ref> | ||
In a lower level, a hadith narrated from [[Ibn Mas'ud]] can be mentioned which implies that the number of caliphs after the Prophet (s) are 12 as the same number of the chiefs of [[Banu Israel]].<ref>see: Ahmad b. Hanbal. ''Musnad Ahmad''. vol. 1, p. 398-406; Al-Hakim al-Naysaburi, ''al-Mustadrak 'ala al-sahihayn''. vol. 4, p. 501; cf. al-Nu'mani, ''al-Ghayba'', p. 74-75; al-Khazzaz al-Qumi, ''Kifayat al-athar'', p. 33 ff; Ahmad b. A'yyash al-Jawhari,. ''Muqtadab al-athar'', p. 3</ref> Sunni scholars give a different interpretation of these 12 imams and introduce people other than the Imams (a) of Shi'a. | In a lower level, a hadith narrated from [[Ibn Mas'ud]] can be mentioned which implies that the number of caliphs after the Prophet (s) are 12 as the same number of the chiefs of [[Banu Israel]].<ref>see: Ahmad b. Hanbal. ''Musnad Ahmad''. vol. 1, p. 398-406; Al-Hakim al-Naysaburi, ''al-Mustadrak 'ala al-sahihayn''. vol. 4, p. 501; cf. al-Nu'mani, ''al-Ghayba'', p. 74-75; al-Khazzaz al-Qumi, ''Kifayat al-athar'', p. 33 ff; Ahmad b. A'yyash al-Jawhari,. ''Muqtadab al-athar'', p. 3</ref> Sunni scholars give a different interpretation of these 12 imams and introduce people other than the Imams (a) of Shi'a. | ||
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[[File:Imam Ali (a)-2.jpg|300px|thumbnail|right|The [[shrine of Imam 'Ali (a)]] in [[Najaf]], [[Iraq]].]] | [[File:Imam Ali (a)-2.jpg|300px|thumbnail|right|The [[shrine of Imam 'Ali (a)]] in [[Najaf]], [[Iraq]].]] | ||
{{main|Imam 'Ali (a)}} | {{main|Imam 'Ali (a)}} | ||
Imam Ali (a), was son of [[Abu Talib]], uncle of [[ | Imam Ali (a), was son of [[Abu Talib]], uncle of [[Prophet (s)]] and an important leader of [[Banu Hashim]]. Abu Talib adopted the Prophet (s) in his childhood and raised him in his house. He was alive until after beginning of the [[Bi'tha|Prophet's (s) mission]] and supported the Prophet (s) and protected him against the threats posed by [[Arab]] disbelievers and especially [[Quraysh]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 199</ref> | ||
====At the time of the Prophet (s)==== | ====At the time of the Prophet (s)==== | ||
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At the beginning of the Prophet's (s) mission, when he (s) returned from the [[cave of Hira]] to his house, 'Ali (a) and [[Khadija bt. Khuwaylid|Khadija (s)]], the wife of the Prophet (s) accepted [[Islam]] as the first Muslims. At the beginning of the Prophet's (s) public mission, at the event of [[Yawm al-Dar]], 'Ali (a) was the first and only person who expressly announced his [[faith]] in that gathering. He (a) never worshiped anything other than One [[God]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 199-200</ref> | At the beginning of the Prophet's (s) mission, when he (s) returned from the [[cave of Hira]] to his house, 'Ali (a) and [[Khadija bt. Khuwaylid|Khadija (s)]], the wife of the Prophet (s) accepted [[Islam]] as the first Muslims. At the beginning of the Prophet's (s) public mission, at the event of [[Yawm al-Dar]], 'Ali (a) was the first and only person who expressly announced his [[faith]] in that gathering. He (a) never worshiped anything other than One [[God]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 199-200</ref> | ||
'Ali (a) always accompanied the Prophet (s) until the Prophet (s) emigrated from | 'Ali (a) always accompanied the Prophet (s) until the Prophet (s) emigrated from Mecca to [[Medina]] and on the eve of his [[immigration]], when disbelievers besieged the house of the Prophet (s) and rushed in to kill him in his bed, 'Ali (a) slept in the Prophet's (s) bed to save the Prophet's (s) life and the Prophet (s) went to Medina.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 200</ref> The [[occasion of the revelation]] of the [[al-Ishtira' verse]] is this sacrifice. | ||
'Ali (a) accompanied the Prophet (s) in Medina too, where he (a) married [[Fatima (s)]], the Prophet's (s) daughter. When the Prophet (s) was establishing the [[oath of brotherhood]] with his [[companions]], appointed 'Ali (a) as his brother.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 200-201</ref> | 'Ali (a) accompanied the Prophet (s) in Medina too, where he (a) married lady [[Fatima (s)]], the Prophet's (s) daughter. When the Prophet (s) was establishing the [[oath of brotherhood]] with his [[companions]], appointed 'Ali (a) as his brother.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 200-201</ref> | ||
'Ali (a) participated in all the battles the Prophet (s) attended except the [[battle of Tabuk]] when the Prophet (s) had ordered 'Ali (a) to stay in Medina in his own place. 'Ali (a) never retreated in any battle or turned away from any enemies and did not disobey the Prophet (s) in any issues, as the Prophet (s) said, "'Ali (a) never separates from the truth and the truth never separates from 'Ali (a)".<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 201</ref> | 'Ali (a) participated in all the battles the Prophet (s) attended except the [[battle of Tabuk]] when the Prophet (s) had ordered 'Ali (a) to stay in Medina in his own place. 'Ali (a) never retreated in any battle or turned away from any enemies and did not disobey the Prophet (s) in any issues, as the Prophet (s) said, "'Ali (a) never separates from the truth and the truth never separates from 'Ali (a)".<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 201</ref> | ||
====After the Prophet (s)==== | ====After the Prophet (s)==== | ||
On the day the | On the day the Prophet (s) passed away, 'Ali (a) was 33 years old. He (a) was superior to anyone in all religious merits and was distinguished among the companions and on several occasions, such as the [[event of Ghadir]], when the Prophet (s) introduced him as the [[caliph]] after himself, but people him aside from [[caliphate]] with the excuse that he (a) was young and had spilled much blood in the battles of the Prophet (s) which had earned him numerous enemies. Thus he was completely removed from all public affairs. After some objections, he (a) was isolated for 25 years (which lasted to the end of caliphate of the third caliph). During these 25 years he compiled the [[Qur'an]] and trained some individuals. After [[the Third Caliph]] was killed, people gave allegiance to 'Ali (a) and chose him as the caliph.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 201</ref> | ||
He (a) was engaged in three wars during his caliphate which lasted almost four years and nine months: | He (a) was engaged in three wars during his caliphate which lasted almost four years and nine months: | ||
# [[ | # The [[Battle of Jamal]]: Some of the [[companions of the Prophet (s)]] who were led by [[Aisha]], [[Talha]], and [[Zubayr]] used the pretext of claiming the blood of the Third Caliph and rebelled and waged the battle of Jamal near [[Basra]]. | ||
# [[ | # The [[Battle of Siffin]]: It took place on the border of [[Iraq]] and [[Syria]] with [[Mu'awiya]]. It lasted one year and half. | ||
# [[ | # The [[Battle of Nahrawan]]: The last great mischief of his time was the battle with [[Khawarij]]. | ||
Most of the time of his caliphate was spent to solve internal conflicts. Soon afterwards, he was hit on the head at the dawn of [[19 Ramadan|19th of Ramadan]] [[40]]/661 in the [[Mosque of Kufa]] when he was praying and passed on in the eve of [[21 Ramadan|21st of the same month]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 201-202</ref> | Most of the time of his caliphate was spent to solve internal conflicts. Soon afterwards, he was hit on the head at the dawn of [[19 Ramadan|19th of Ramadan]] [[40]]/661 in the [[Mosque of Kufa]] when he was praying and passed on in the eve of [[21 Ramadan|21st of the same month]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 201-202</ref> | ||
====Merits==== | ====Merits==== | ||
As witnessed in the history and reported by his friends and enemies, [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] did not lack anything in human perfections and in Islamic merits, he was a perfect exemplar of the | As witnessed in the history and reported by his friends and enemies, [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] did not lack anything in human perfections and in Islamic merits, he was a perfect exemplar of the Prophet's (s) education.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 202</ref> | ||
In knowledge, 'Ali (a) was the most knowledgeable person among the companions of the | In knowledge, 'Ali (a) was the most knowledgeable person among the companions of the Prophet (s) and all other Muslims. He (a) was the first Muslim who used reasoning in his scientific opinions and made philosophical discussions in theological teachings and spoke about the interior of the [[Qur'an]] and to preserve its exterior, he (a) established the rules of Arabic syntax and was the most competent Arab in speech.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 202-203</ref> | ||
In bravery, he (a) was an exemplar and he was unique in piety and worshiping God. There are many stories about him showing mercy to his subordinates and showing sympathy and generosity towards the poor.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 204-205</ref> | In bravery, he (a) was an exemplar and he was unique in piety and worshiping God. There are many stories about him showing mercy to his subordinates and showing sympathy and generosity towards the poor.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 204-205</ref> | ||
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===Imam al-Hasan (a)=== | ===Imam al-Hasan (a)=== | ||
{{main|Imam al-Hasan (a)}} | {{main|Imam al-Hasan (a)}} | ||
Imam al-Hasan al-Mujtaba (a) and his brother, [[Imam al-Husayn (a)]], were two sons of [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] and [[Lady Fatima (s)]]. [[ | Imam al-Hasan al-Mujtaba (a) and his brother, [[Imam al-Husayn (a)]], were two sons of [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] and [[Lady Fatima (s)]]. The [[Prophet (s)]] frequently is quoted saying, "al-Hasan (a) and al-Husayn (a) are my children".<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 205</ref> | ||
Imam al-Hasan (a) was born in [[3]]/625 in [[Medina]]. When he was 7 years old, he lost his grandfather, the | Imam al-Hasan (a) was born in [[3]]/625 in [[Medina]]. When he was 7 years old, he lost his grandfather, the Prophet (s), and soon afterwards he lost his mother, lady Fatima (s).<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 205</ref> | ||
After the [[martyrdom]] of his father, he became the [[Imam]] following the [[God]]'s | After the [[martyrdom]] of his father, he became the [[Imam]] following the [[God]]'s command and the will of Imam 'Ali (a) and for six months, he managed Muslims' affairs as the [[caliph]] of Muslims. During his caliphate, [[Mu'awiya]] who was a great enemy of 'Ali (a) and his family and had fought for years (seeking caliphate firstly through claiming revenge for the Third Caliph's death and then overtly claiming caliphate itself), moved his army towards [[Iraq]] which was the capital of Imam al-Hasan's (a) caliphate and waged a war against him. | ||
Mu'awiya gradually lured commanders of Imam al-Hasan's (a) army by giving them substantial amounts of money and tempting offers and made Imam's (a) army revolt against him so he (a) had to make [[ | Mu'awiya gradually lured commanders of Imam al-Hasan's (a) army by giving them substantial amounts of money and tempting offers and made Imam's (a) army revolt against him so he (a) had to make the [[Peace Treaty of Imam al-Hasan (a)|peace with Mu'awiya]] and to hand the caliphate to Mu'awiya under the conditions that after the death of Mu'awiya, caliphate would return to Imam al-Hasan (a) and that his family and followers would be safe from any type of harm or offence.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 205-206</ref> | ||
At the beginning of his caliphate, Mu'awiya broke his promise for observing the conditions. During Mu'awiya's caliphate which lasted 10 years, Imam al-Hasan (a) lived having great hardships and not being safe even in his own house. He was finally poisoned and [[martyr]]ed in [[50]]/670 by his wife who was encouraged by Mu'awiya.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 206-207</ref> | At the beginning of his caliphate, Mu'awiya broke his promise for observing the conditions. During Mu'awiya's caliphate which lasted 10 years, Imam al-Hasan (a) lived having great hardships and not being safe even in his own house. He was finally poisoned and [[martyr]]ed in [[50]]/670 by his wife who was encouraged by Mu'awiya.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 206-207</ref> | ||
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{{main|Imam al-Husayn (a)}} | {{main|Imam al-Husayn (a)}} | ||
Imam al-Husayn (a), known as "[[Sayyid al-Shuhada']]" (English: Master of the martyrs), the second son of [['Ali (a)]] and [[Fatima (s)]], was born in [[4]]/626 and became [[Imam]] after [[martyrdom]] of his brother, Imam al-Hasan (a), following the order of [[God]] and the will of Imam al-Hasan (a).<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 207</ref> | Imam al-Husayn (a), known as "[[Sayyid al-Shuhada']]" (English: Master of the martyrs), the second son of [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] and lady [[Fatima (s)]], was born in [[4]]/626 and became [[Imam]] after [[martyrdom]] of his brother, Imam al-Hasan (a), following the order of [[God]] and the will of Imam al-Hasan (a).<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 207</ref> | ||
Imam al-Husayn (a) was Imam for 10 years and except the last 6 months, his imamate coincided with the caliphate of Mu'awiya, during which he (a) lived under great hardships and severe conditions. During the last 6 months of Imam al-Husayn's (a) imamate, Mu'awiya tried to establish the caliphate of his profligate son, [[Yazid]]. In the middle of 60/680, Mu'awiya died and his son acceded to power.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 207-208</ref> | Imam al-Husayn (a) was Imam for 10 years and except the last 6 months, his imamate coincided with the caliphate of Mu'awiya, during which he (a) lived under great hardships and severe conditions. During the last 6 months of Imam al-Husayn's (a) imamate, Mu'awiya tried to establish the caliphate of his profligate son, [[Yazid]]. In the middle of 60/680, Mu'awiya died and his son acceded to power.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 207-208</ref> | ||
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{{main|Imam al-Husayn's (a) Journey from Medina to Karbala}} | {{main|Imam al-Husayn's (a) Journey from Medina to Karbala}} | ||
Quickly, Yazid ordered the governor of [[Medina]] to take Imam al-Husayn's (a) allegiance with Yazid, otherwise sends his head for him. When the governor of Medina delivered the message of Yazid to Imam al-Husayn (a), he (a) asked for time to think about that and moved towards [[Mecca]] at night and took refuge in [[al-Haram al-Makki]](which is the common refuge in | Quickly, Yazid ordered the governor of [[Medina]] to take Imam al-Husayn's (a) [[allegiance]] with Yazid, otherwise sends his head for him. When the governor of Medina delivered the message of Yazid to Imam al-Husayn (a), he (a) asked for time to think about that and moved towards [[Mecca]] at night and took refuge in [[al-Haram al-Makki]] (which is the common refuge in Islam) for four months.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 209</ref> | ||
Meanwhile, the Imam (a) received a stream of letters from [[Iraq]] and especially from [[Kufa]], who were asking him to go there and lead the people and rise up against injustice. During the rituals of [[hajj]], Imam (a) was informed that some of the agents of Yazid had entered Mecca wearing the clothes of hajj pilgrims and were ordered to kill the Imam (a).<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 209-210</ref> | Meanwhile, the Imam (a) received a stream of letters from [[Iraq]] and especially from [[Kufa]], who were asking him to go there and lead the people and rise up against injustice. During the rituals of [[hajj]], Imam (a) was informed that some of the agents of Yazid had entered Mecca wearing the clothes of hajj pilgrims and were ordered to kill the Imam (a).<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 209-210</ref> | ||
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After the war finished, the army of enemy looted the tents of the Imam (a) and took the heads of martyrs and the [[Ahl al-Bayt (a)]] of the Imam (a) to [[Kufa]] and then to [[Damascus]] to [[Yazid]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 213-214</ref> | After the war finished, the army of enemy looted the tents of the Imam (a) and took the heads of martyrs and the [[Ahl al-Bayt (a)]] of the Imam (a) to [[Kufa]] and then to [[Damascus]] to [[Yazid]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 213-214</ref> | ||
[[ | The [[Battle of Karbala]], captivity of women and girls, taking them from one city to another, speeches made by [[Imam al-Sajjad (a)]] and lady [[Zaynab (a)]], daughter of [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] who were among the captives disgraced [[Umayyads]] and neutralized [[Mu'awiya]]'s previous propaganda, so that even Yazid publicly renounced the acts of his agents. The Battle of Karbala was so effective in the history of Islam in a way that in a long term it caused the government of Umayyads to be toppled. It also strengthened the roots of [[Shi'a]]. Among its short term effects were the revolutions and revolts which lasted 12 years and not a single person who participated in the murder of the Imam (a) were able to escape the revenge.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 214</ref> | ||
=== Imam al-Sajjad (a) === | === Imam al-Sajjad (a) === | ||
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[[File:The graves of four Imams of Shi'a in al-baqi' after the destruction.jpg|thumbnail|220px|The graves of four Imams of Shi'a in al-Baqi' after the destruction. The graves from left to right belong to 1. [[Imam al-Sadiq (a)]], 2. [[Imam al-Baqir (a)]], 3. [[Imam al-Sajjad (a)]], 4. [[Imam al-Hasan (a)]], 5. [[al-'Abbas b. 'Abd al-Muttalib]].]] | [[File:The graves of four Imams of Shi'a in al-baqi' after the destruction.jpg|thumbnail|220px|The graves of four Imams of Shi'a in al-Baqi' after the destruction. The graves from left to right belong to 1. [[Imam al-Sadiq (a)]], 2. [[Imam al-Baqir (a)]], 3. [[Imam al-Sajjad (a)]], 4. [[Imam al-Hasan (a)]], 5. [[al-'Abbas b. 'Abd al-Muttalib]].]] | ||
Imam 'Ali b. al-Husayn (a) titled as "Sajjad" and "Zayn al-'Abidin" was the third child of Imam al-Husayn (a), whose mother was [[Shahr Banu]], daughter of Yazdegerd III, the last emperor of the Sassanid dynasty of [[Iran]]. His other three brothers were martyred in | Imam 'Ali b. al-Husayn (a) titled as "Sajjad" and "Zayn al-'Abidin" was the third child of Imam al-Husayn (a), whose mother was [[Shahr Banu]], daughter of Yazdegerd III, the last emperor of the Sassanid dynasty of [[Iran]]. His other three brothers were martyred in the Battle of Karbala, but he (a) was very sick so he could not go to the war and was sent to [[Syria]] together with other the [[Captives of Karbala|captives]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 215-216</ref> | ||
After passing the term of captivity, Imam al-Sajjad (a) was returned to [[Medina]] respectfully by the order of [[Yazid]] to avoid the public rage. He (a) was once again arrested and chained by the order of the Umayyad [[caliph]] [['Abd al-Malik]] and brought from Medina back to Syria and returned to Medina later again.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 216</ref> | After passing the term of captivity, Imam al-Sajjad (a) was returned to [[Medina]] respectfully by the order of [[Yazid]] to avoid the public rage. He (a) was once again arrested and chained by the order of the Umayyad [[caliph]] [['Abd al-Malik]] and brought from Medina back to Syria and returned to Medina later again.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 216</ref> | ||
After returning to Medina, the fourth Imam (a) stayed at home, closed the door to strangers and engaged in [[worship]]ing [[God]] and did not accept to meet anyone except certain | After returning to Medina, the fourth Imam (a) stayed at home, closed the door to strangers and engaged in [[worship]]ing [[God]] and did not accept to meet anyone except certain Shi'a such as [[Abu Hamza al-Thumali]], [[Abu Khalid al-Kabuli]] and alike. However, these certain people circulated the teachings they learned from the Imam (a) among Shi'a and doing so, Shi'a was promoted so that it bloomed at the time of [[Imam al-Baqir (a)|the fifth Imam (a)]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 216</ref> | ||
[[Sahifat al-Sajjadiyya]] is a collection of 57 of his [[supplication]]s. After 35 years of his [[imamate]], Imam al-Sajjad (a) was poisoned and [[martyr]]ed in 95/713 by [[Walid b. 'Abd al-Malik]] following the inducement of [[Hisham]], the Umayyad [[caliph]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 216-217</ref> | ''[[Sahifat al-Sajjadiyya]]'' is a collection of 57 of his [[supplication]]s. After 35 years of his [[imamate]], Imam al-Sajjad (a) was poisoned and [[martyr]]ed in 95/713 by [[Walid b. 'Abd al-Malik]] following the inducement of [[Hisham]], the Umayyad [[caliph]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 216-217</ref> | ||
=== Imam al-Baqir (a) === | === Imam al-Baqir (a) === | ||
{{main|Imam al-Baqir (a)}} | {{main|Imam al-Baqir (a)}} | ||
Imam Muhammad b. 'Ali (a), known as "Baqir al-'Ulum". This is a title the [[ | Imam Muhammad b. 'Ali (a), known as "Baqir al-'Ulum". This is a title the [[Prophet (s)]] had given him. Imam al-Baqir (a) was born in 57/733 and was 4 years old in the [[Battle of Karbala]]. After his great father, he (a) became the [[imam]] following the command of [[God]] and as his forefathers had mentioned. He (a) was [[martyr]]ed in 114/733 or 117/735. According to some [[hadith]]s from Shi'a, the Imam (a) was poisoned by [[Ibarahim b. Walid b. 'Abd al-Malik]], the nephew of Hisham, the Umayyad [[caliph]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 217</ref> | ||
At the time of the fifth Imam (a), there were frequent fights and revolts due to oppressions of the [[Umayyads]] and these challenges kept the government busy and away from annoying the [[Ahl al-Bayt (a)]]. On the other hand, the occurrence of the Battle of Karbala and that the Ahl al-Bayt (a) were oppressed, made [[Muslim]]s attracted to them and brought the Imam (a) such good opportunities to distribute Islamic teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (a) that none of the Imams (a) had in the past and this is proved by the many hadiths narrated from him.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 217-218</ref> | At the time of the fifth Imam (a), there were frequent fights and revolts due to oppressions of the [[Umayyads]] and these challenges kept the government busy and away from annoying the [[Ahl al-Bayt (a)]]. On the other hand, the occurrence of the Battle of Karbala and that the Ahl al-Bayt (a) were oppressed, made [[Muslim]]s attracted to them and brought the Imam (a) such good opportunities to distribute Islamic teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (a) that none of the Imams (a) had in the past and this is proved by the many hadiths narrated from him.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 217-218</ref> | ||
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===Imam al-Sadiq (a)=== | ===Imam al-Sadiq (a)=== | ||
{{main|Imam al-Sadiq (a)}} | {{main|Imam al-Sadiq (a)}} | ||
Imam Ja'far b. Muhammad (al-Sadiq), son of [[Imam al-Baqir (a)|the fifth Imam (a)]] was born in 83/702 and was poisoned and [[martyr]]ed by the inducement of | Imam Ja'far b. Muhammad (al-Sadiq), son of [[Imam al-Baqir (a)|the fifth Imam (a)]] was born in 83/702 and was poisoned and [[martyr]]ed by the inducement of Abbasid caliph [[Al-Mansur al-'Abbasi]] at the age of 65.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 218</ref> Except for [[Imam al-Mahdi (aj)]] who is in [[Occultation of Imam al-Mahdi (aj)|occultation]], Imam al-Sadiq (a) was the oldest [[imam]]. | ||
During his imamate, due to revolutions in Islamic countries and especially the uprising of [[al-Musawwida]] (people in black clothin) made to overthrow the Umayyad caliphate, and bloody wars took place which led to the fall of the caliphate of Umayyads. Therefore, the good grounds that the fifth Imam (a) had prepared by distribution of Islamic teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (a) during the 20 years of his imamate, brought up more opportunities and better atmosphere to spread religious teachings.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 218-219</ref> | During his imamate, due to revolutions in Islamic countries and especially the uprising of [[al-Musawwida]] (people in black clothin) made to overthrow the Umayyad caliphate, and bloody wars took place which led to the fall of the caliphate of Umayyads. Therefore, the good grounds that the fifth Imam (a) had prepared by distribution of Islamic teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (a) during the 20 years of his imamate, brought up more opportunities and better atmosphere to spread religious teachings.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 218-219</ref> | ||
During his 34 years of imamate, Imam al-Sadiq (a) distributed religious teachings and educated many scholars in different traditional and rational sciences such as [[Zurara b. A'yan|Zurara]], [[Muhammad b. Muslim]], [[Mu'min al-Taq]], [[Hisham b. Hakam]], [[Aban b. Taghlib]], [[Hisham b. Salim]], [[Hariz]], [[Hisham Kalbi Nasaba]], [[Jabir b. Hayyan]] and others and even some [[Sunni]] scholars were honored to benefit from his classes such as [[Sufyan al-Thawri]], [[Abu Hanifa]] (leader of Hanafi school), [[Qadi Sakuni]], [[Qadi Abu l-Bakhtari]] and others. It is famously reported that 4000 [[hadith]] narrators and scholars were educated in his (a) classes. The hadiths narrated from [[al-Sadiqayn]] ( | During his 34 years of imamate, Imam al-Sadiq (a) distributed religious teachings and educated many scholars in different traditional and rational sciences such as [[Zurara b. A'yan|Zurara]], [[Muhammad b. Muslim]], [[Mu'min al-Taq]], [[Hisham b. Hakam]], [[Aban b. Taghlib]], [[Hisham b. Salim]], [[Hariz]], [[Hisham Kalbi Nasaba]], [[Jabir b. Hayyan]] and others and even some [[Sunni]] scholars were honored to benefit from his classes such as [[Sufyan al-Thawri]], [[Abu Hanifa]] (leader of Hanafi school), [[Qadi Sakuni]], [[Qadi Abu l-Bakhtari]] and others. It is famously reported that 4000 [[hadith]] narrators and scholars were educated in his (a) classes. The hadiths narrated from [[al-Sadiqayn]] (the fifth and the sixth Imams (a)) are more than all hadiths narrated from the [[Prophet (s)]] and the other 10 Imams (a).<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 219</ref> | ||
[[Al-Mansur al-'Abbasi]] ordered his agents to arrest Imam al-Sadiq (a) in Medina. Imam (a) was arrested once before by the order of the Abbasid caliph [[Saffah]] and brought to [[Iraq]] and before that, he (a) was also arrested in the presence of Imam al-Baqir (a) by the order of the Umayyad caliph [[Hisham]] and brought to [[Damascus]]. Al-Mansur kept Imam al-Sadiq (a) under surveillance for a while and wanted to kill him but finally let the Imam (a) return to Medina and the Imam (a) lived the rest of his life in isolation, practicing [[Taqiyya]]. He was finally poisoned and [[martyr]]ed by the order of al-Mansur.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 220</ref> | [[Al-Mansur al-'Abbasi]] ordered his agents to arrest Imam al-Sadiq (a) in Medina. Imam (a) was arrested once before by the order of the Abbasid caliph [[Saffah]] and brought to [[Iraq]] and before that, he (a) was also arrested in the presence of Imam al-Baqir (a) by the order of the Umayyad caliph [[Hisham]] and brought to [[Damascus]]. Al-Mansur kept Imam al-Sadiq (a) under surveillance for a while and wanted to kill him but finally let the Imam (a) return to Medina and the Imam (a) lived the rest of his life in isolation, practicing [[Taqiyya]] (precautionary dissimulation). He was finally poisoned and [[martyr]]ed by the order of al-Mansur.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 220</ref> | ||
===Imam al-Kazim (a)=== | ===Imam al-Kazim (a)=== | ||
{{main|Imam al-Kazim (a)}} | {{main|Imam al-Kazim (a)}} | ||
The seventh Imam (a) lived contemporarily with [[al-Mansur]], [[al-Hadi]], [[al-Mahdi]] and [[Harun]], in a very dark and difficult time and practiced | The seventh Imam (a) lived contemporarily with [[al-Mansur]], [[al-Hadi]], [[al-Mahdi]] and [[Harun]], in a very dark and difficult time and practiced Taqiyya (precautionary dissimulation). When Harun went to [[Medina]] during the time of [[hajj]], ordered to arrest and chain Imam al-Kazim (a) when he (a) was praying in the [[mosque of the Prophet (s)]] and prison him. Then he took him (a) from Medina to [[Basra]] and from Basra to [[Baghdad]]. He (a) was taken from one prison to another for many. He (a) was finally poisoned and [[martyr]]ed in the prison of [[Sandi b. Shahak]] and was buried in a place called "[[Maqabir Quraysh]]" which is now located in the city of [[Kadhimiya]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 221</ref> | ||
===Imam al-Rida (a)=== | ===Imam al-Rida (a)=== | ||
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===Imam al-Hadi (a)=== | ===Imam al-Hadi (a)=== | ||
{{main|Imam al-Hadi (a)}} | {{main|Imam al-Hadi (a)}} | ||
Imam 'Ali b. Muhammad (titled as al-Naqi and al-Hadi), son of [[Imam al-Jawad (a)|the ninth Imam (a)]] was born in Medina in 212/828 and (according to | Imam 'Ali b. Muhammad (titled as al-Naqi and al-Hadi), son of [[Imam al-Jawad (a)|the ninth Imam (a)]] was born in Medina in 212/828 and (according to Shi'a reports) was poisoned and martyred by the Abbasid caliph, al-Mu'tazz, in 254/868.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 225-226</ref> | ||
Imam al-Hadi (a) was contemporary with seven Abbasid caliphs, [[al-Ma'mun]], [[al-Mu'tasim]], [[al-Wathiq]], [[al-Mutawakkil]], [[al-Muntasir]], [[al-Musta'in]] and [[al-Mu'tazz]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 226</ref> | Imam al-Hadi (a) was contemporary with seven Abbasid caliphs, [[al-Ma'mun]], [[al-Mu'tasim]], [[al-Wathiq]], [[al-Mutawakkil]], [[al-Muntasir]], [[al-Musta'in]] and [[al-Mu'tazz]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 226</ref> | ||
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{{Main|Imam al-'Askari (a)}} | {{Main|Imam al-'Askari (a)}} | ||
Al-Hasan b. 'Ali (titled as al-'Askari), son of [[ | Al-Hasan b. 'Ali (titled as al-'Askari), son of the [[tenth Imam (a)]] was born in 232/846 and (according to some [[Shi'a]] [[hadith]]s) was poisoned and martyred in 260/874 by the plot of [[al-Mu'tamid]], the [[Abbasid]] [[caliph]].<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 227-228</ref> | ||
Imam al-'Askari (a) became the [[Imam]] after his father was martyred, by the command of [[God]] and following the reports of his forefathers. His imamate lasted 7 years, during which he (a) had to practice severe [[Taqiyya]] because of the caliphate's excessive harassments and closed the door of his house to the people, even to ordinary [[Shi'a]] and did not meet anyone except the elites of them. However he (a) was in prison most of his life. The first reason behind all these harassments was that the number of Shi'a had increased in that time and their power had reached a considerably high level. Also, this fact that Shi'a believed in imamate was known to everyone and Imams (a) were soon found; thus, caliphate kept them under surveillance more than before and tried to kill them in any way possible. Secondly, they knew that the elites of Shi'a believed that Imam al-Askari (a) would have a son who would be the [[Imam al-Mahdi (a)|Promised Mahdi]] and the [[ | Imam al-'Askari (a) became the [[Imam]] after his father was martyred, by the command of [[God]] and following the reports of his forefathers. His imamate lasted 7 years, during which he (a) had to practice severe [[Taqiyya]] (precautionary dissimulation) because of the caliphate's excessive harassments and closed the door of his house to the people, even to ordinary [[Shi'a]] and did not meet anyone except the elites of them. However he (a) was in prison most of his life. The first reason behind all these harassments was that the number of Shi'a had increased in that time and their power had reached a considerably high level. Also, this fact that Shi'a believed in imamate was known to everyone and Imams (a) were soon found; thus, caliphate kept them under surveillance more than before and tried to kill them in any way possible. Secondly, they knew that the elites of Shi'a believed that Imam al-Askari (a) would have a son who would be the [[Imam al-Mahdi (a)|Promised Mahdi (a)]] and the the [[Prophet (s)]] frequently had reported through Shi'a and Sunnis about his coming.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 228</ref> | ||
Therefore, Imam al-'Askari (a) was kept under surveillance more than other Imams (a) and the caliph of his time had decided to finish the imamate of Shi'a in any way possible. As soon as they reported to him about the illness of the Imam (a), he sent a doctor to his house accompanied by some trustworthy men of his and assigned some judges to watch his house and anything that happened in it. After the Imam (a) was martyred, the caliph ordered to search his house and to check the Imam's (a) wife and slaves to find out if they were pregnant. For two years, caliph's agents were looking for the Imam's (a) son, until they were fully disappointed.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 229</ref> | Therefore, Imam al-'Askari (a) was kept under surveillance more than other Imams (a) and the caliph of his time had decided to finish the imamate of Shi'a in any way possible. As soon as they reported to him about the illness of the Imam (a), he sent a doctor to his house accompanied by some trustworthy men of his and assigned some judges to watch his house and anything that happened in it. After the Imam (a) was martyred, the caliph ordered to search his house and to check the Imam's (a) wife and slaves to find out if they were pregnant. For two years, caliph's agents were looking for the Imam's (a) son, until they were fully disappointed.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 229</ref> | ||
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Imam al-'Askari (a) was buried in his house in [[Samarra]] near his father's grave.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 229</ref> | Imam al-'Askari (a) was buried in his house in [[Samarra]] near his father's grave.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 229</ref> | ||
=== Imam al-Mahdi ( | === Imam al-Mahdi (a) === | ||
{{main|Imam al-Mahdi ( | {{main|Imam al-Mahdi (a)}} | ||
The Promised Mahdi (a) (usually titled as "Imam al-'Asr" and "Sahib al-Zaman") is son of the [[Imam Hasan al-'Askari (a)|Eleventh Imam (a)]] whose name and [[Kunya]] was the same as [[ | The Promised Mahdi (a) (usually titled as "Imam al-'Asr" and "Sahib al-Zaman") is son of the [[Imam Hasan al-'Askari (a)|Eleventh Imam (a)]] whose name and [[Kunya]] was the same as the [[Prophet's (s)]]. He (a) was born in Samarra in 256/870 and lived with his father hidden from people until 260/874 when his father was martyred and just few elites of [[Shi'a]] met him. After his father's (a) martyrdom, when he (a) became the Imam (a), he (a) became hidden from people. | ||
[[Occultation of Imam al-Mahdi ( | [[Occultation of Imam al-Mahdi (a)|Imam al-Mahdi'a (a) occultation]] is divided in two periods: | ||
# The [[Minor Occultation]], which began in 260/874 and finished in 329/940 (lasted 70 years in Hijri calendar). During this period, the Imam ( | # The [[Minor Occultation]], which began in 260/874 and finished in 329/940 (lasted 70 years in Hijri calendar). During this period, the Imam (a) communicated with people through his special deputies.<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 230</ref> | ||
# and the [[Major Occultation]] which began in 329/940 and continues until now. In a [[hadith]] which is accepted by both [[Shi'a]] and [[Sunni]], the Prophet (s) said that, "If there is nothing left from the life of this world but only one day, [[God]] will prolong that day until [[Imam al-Mahdi (a)|al-Mahdi ( | # and the [[Major Occultation]] which began in 329/940 and continues until now. In a [[hadith]] which is accepted by both [[Shi'a]] and [[Sunni]], the Prophet (s) said that, "If there is nothing left from the life of this world but only one day, [[God]] will prolong that day until [[Imam al-Mahdi (a)|al-Mahdi (a)]] from among my children reappears and fills the world with [[justice]] just like it is filled with injustice and oppression. "<ref>Tabataba'i, ''Shi'a dar Islam'', p. 231</ref> | ||
==Sunni References== | ==Sunni References== | ||