TAWOOS-E-YAMANI'S QUESTIONS TO THE INFALLIBLE IMAM MUHAMMAD BAQIR (A.S.)

Aban bin Taghlab narrates in the book “Al-Ijtehad” that once Tawoos Yamani was circumbulating the Sacred Ka’bah along with his companion, when he saw the Infallible Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) was also in pilgrims. He told his friend that he wanted to ask some questions from Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.). After finishing the prayer, he came in the presence of the Imam and asked the following questions:

Tawoos: “When was one-third of the humanity perished?”

The Imam: “You mean one-fourth of the human race, which occurred when Qabeel killed Habeel.”

Tawoos: “Who is the father of mankind? Habeel or Qabeel?”

The Imam: “Hazrat Shees, from whom the human race continued.”

Tawoos: “Why Adam was called Adam?”

The Imam: “His nature was elevated from the low surface of the earth.”

Tawoos: “Why Hawwa was called Hawwa”

The Imam: “Because she was created from the living ribs of Adam.”

Tawoos: “Why Iblees is called Iblees?”

The Imam: “Because he was disappointed from the Mercy of Allah.”

Tawoos: “Why Jinn are called Jinn?”

The Imam: “Because they are obscured and invisible, and make the human beings mad and manic.”

Tawoos: “Who told the first lie?”

The Imam: “It was Iblees, when he said that he was better than Adam, as he was created from fire while Adam was created from soil.”

Tawoos: “Which was the first nation who certified the truth, but in reality they were liars?”

The Imam: “They were the “Hypocrites” when they testified that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was the Messenger. Surah Munafiqun Ayah 1 “When the hypocrites come to you, they say, “We testify that you are the Messenger of Allah.” Allah knows that you are His Messenger. Allah testifies that the hypocrites are liars.”

Tawoos: “Which was the bird, which flew only once, neither before nor after?”

The Imam: “It was “Toor-e-Sina” which flew over the Bani Isra’il, by the order of Allah. Surah al-A’raf Ayah 171 “When We raised the mountain above them as if it were a sunshade, they thought it was about to fall upon them.”

Tawoos: “Who was that Messenger sent by Allah, who was not from humans, angels, or Jinn?”

The Imam: “It was that raven sent by Allah to guide Qabeel as to how to cover his brother Habeel whom he had killed. Surah al-Ma’idah Ayah31 “Allah sent down a raven which started to dig up the earth to show the killer how to bury the corpse of his brother.”

Tawoos: “Who was that Warner who warned its people and it was not from humans, angels, or Jinn?”

The Imam: “It was the ant who warned its people as mentioned in Surah al-Namal Ayah 18 “When they arrived in the valley of the ants, one ant said to the others, “Enter your dwellings lest you be carelessly crushed by Sulaiman and his army.”

Tawoos: “Who was falsely accused of a lie, which was not from humans, angles or Jinn?”

The Imam: “It was the wild beast, which was falsely accused by the brothers of the Prophet Yusuf that it attacked him.”

Tawoos: “Which was the thing whose smaller portion was allowed, but too much was not allowed?”

The Imam: “It was the water of a river, when Taloot (Saul) came near the river, he told his army, Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 249: “When Taloot (Saul) set forth with the army he said: “Allah will test you with a river. Those who drank its water will not be of my people and those who did not even taste the water or who tasted only some of it from within the hollow of their hand, will be my friend.”

Tawoos: “Which is the prayer which can be performed without ablution (wuzu)? Which is that fasting in which eating and drinking is allowed?

The Imam: “It is the Salawat on the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and his Pure Progeny which does not require ablution. It was the “Fast of Silence” kept by Hazrat Mariam (s.a.) Surah Mariam Ayah 26: “Eat, drink, and rejoice. Should you see a person going by, tell him that on this day you have promised the Beneficent to fast and never talk to any human being.”

Tawoos: “Which is that thing that increases and decreases? And which is that thing which increases but does not decrease? And which is that thing which decreases but does not increase?

The Imam: “The thing which increases and decreases is the moon. The thing which increases but does not decrease is the ocean. And the thing which decreases but does not increase is the age and life.”

Source used:

The Glorious Qur’an

Bihar-ul-Anwar                                                      Allamah Muhammad Baqir Majlisi (r.a.) volume 4

JA'BIR IBN HAYYAN, AN ILLUSTRIOUS STUDENT OF IMAM JAFFER AL-SADIQ (A.S.)

Abu Musa Jabir ibn Hayyan, also known in the Western world as “Geber”, was born in the year 721 A.D. in Tus, Iran. He was one of the most illustrious students and spiritual follower of the Infallible Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.).

He was a prominent physicist, philosopher, engineer, geographer, mathematician, and pharmacist. His pioneering work in Chemistry earned him the title of “The Father of Chemistry”. He discovered nitric acid and citric Acid and invented many laboratory equipment used in the fundamental process of distillation and crystallization. By combining nitric and hydrochloric acid, he invented “aqua regia”, one of the few substances that can dissolve gold. He also discovered Citric acid (the sour component of lemon), Acetic acid (of vinegar), and Tartaric acid.

Jabir applied his chemical knowledge to the improvement of many manufacturing processes such as making steel and other metals, preventing rust, engraving gold, dyeing and water-proofing cloth, tanning leather and chemical analysis of pigments and other substances. He developed the use of manganese dioxide in glassmaking, to counteract the green tinge produced by iron.

The foundation of the modern classification of elements was laid by Jabir. He proposed three categories: “Spirits” which vaporize on heating like camphor, arsenic, and amonium chloride; “Metals” like gold, silver, lead, copper and iron; and “Stones” that can be converted into powder.  In the Middle Ages, Jabir’s treatises were translated in Latin and became standard texts for the European scholars of Chemistry. For example, Kitab al Kimiya titled as “Book of the composition of Alchemy in Europe) translated by Robert of Chester in 1144 and the Kitab al-Sab’een by Gerard of Cremona before 1187.

Several technical terms introduced by Jabir like “Alkali” have found their way into European languages and became a part of scientific vocabulary.

Jabir’s Alchemy had a long relationship with the Shiite mysticism. Jabir’s interest in Alchemy was inspired by his teacher Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.).

Jabir also made important contributions to medicine, astronomy, cosmology, biology, chemical technology, geometry, grammar, metaphysics, astrology, and symbolic Imami myths. Nearly 3,000 treatises and articles have been credited to him. Only a few of his books have been edited and published, and fewer still are available in translation. The Beger crater, located on the moon, is named after him.

The writings of Jabir ibn Hayyan may be divided into four categories:

1.       One hundred and twelve books dedicated to Barmakids, the Viziers of Haroon-ur-Rashid.  This group includes the Arabic version of Emerald Tablet, an ancient which is the foundation of Spiritual Alchemy.

2.       The Seventy books most of which were translated into Latin. This group includes Kitab ul Zuhra (Book of Venus) and Kitab al-Ahjar (Book of Stones).

3.       The Ten books on Rectification, containing descriptions of Alchemist such as Pythagoras, Socrates, Plato and Aristotle.

4.       The books on Balance. This group includes his famous “Theory of the balance in Nature.”

Jabir writes in “Book of Stones” (4:12) that “the purpose is to baffle and lead into error everyone except those whom God loves and provides for.”

Jabir, when he would talk about Alchemy, used to say: “My master Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) taught me about calcium, evaporation, distillation and crystallization and ever thing I learned in Alchemy was from my master Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.)”. Other famous students of Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq were Imam Abu Hanifa and Imam Malik ibn Anas. Imam Abu Hanifa is quoted by many sources as having said: “My knowledge extends to only two years, which I spent with Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.). Some Islamic scholars have gone so far as to call Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) as the root of most of Islamic Jurisprudence, having influence on Hanafi, Malikii and Shia schools of thought extending well into the mainstream Hanbali and Shafi’i thought. Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq also attained a surpassing knowledge in astronomy and the science of medicine.                     

THEORIES: Jabir’s Alchemy investigations ostensibly revolved around the ultimate goal of “Takwin”-the artificial creation of life. The book of Stones contained several recipes for creating creatures such as scorpions, snakes and even humans in a laboratory environment, which are subject to the control of their creator!

The origin of the idea of chemical equivalence might be traced back to Jabir, in whose time it was recognized that a certain amount of acid is necessary in order to neutralize a base.

According to Jabir’s mercury-sulfur theory, metals differ from one another in so far as they contain different proportions of mercury and sulfur.

Jabir’s chemical investigations were theoretically grounded in an elaborate numerology related to a Pythagorean and Neo-Platonism system. The nature and properties of elements was defined through numeric values assigned the Arabic consonants present in their names, ultimately culminating in number 17.

Jabir ibn Hayyan’s detailed discussion with the Infallible Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) will be presented in “Jabir ibn Hayyan, the illustrious student of Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) – 2

Sources used:

Geber-Abu Musa Jabir ibn Hayyan                                                                         Crystalink

WIKIPEDIA                                                                                                             

THE VIRTUOUS PERSONALITIES

Surah al-Furqan is the 25^th Surah revealed in Makkah. The Surah may be conveniently divided into three parts; one part to the idolaters, second part may be related to the “unity” of Allah, and the last part about the “Servants of Allah” and the true believers and their unique characteristics. Although, these superior qualities point towards the Infallible Imams, but the believers may struggle to acquire and achieve as much as humanly possible.

Allah describes the twelve qualities and characteristics of those “Selected and Special” personalities from Ayah 63 to Ayah 73.

Ayah 63: The servants of All-Beneficent are those who walk humbly on the earth, and when the ignorant address them, they say, “Peace”. The moral character of a person is evident from his speech and behavior. Courtesy and grace is the key of faith while pride and arrogance are the keys of faithlessness. Humbleness negates the arrogance and pride in a person. Similarly, Allah warns against arrogance in Ayah 37 of al-Isra which says: “Do not walk proudly on the earth; your feet cannot tear apart the earth nor are you as tall as the mountains.”

The second characteristic of the “Servants of Allah” is that when the ignorant commits any unethical behavior, they very politely wish them peace and ignore them. They exhibit patience and clemency towards them.

Ayah 64: “Those who spend the night for their Lord, prostrating and standing (in worship)”.

The third characteristic of the “Servants of Allah” is they recite Night Prayer or Namaz-e-Shab. They brighten their heart and soul with the remembrance of Allah. In the serenity of night, when the world is sleeping, they prefer to supplicate with their Creator.

Ayah 65: “Those who say, Our Lord! Turn away from us the punishment of Hell. Indeed, its punishment is enduring.”

This is the fourth characteristic of the “Servant of Allah.” Although, they were standing in Namaz-e-Shab and during the day they are busy performing their duties, still their hearts are filled with fear of Allah and the possibilities of punishment of Hell Fire. It is said that “Faith” is a happy blend of fear and hope from Allah (s.w.t.)

Ayah 66: “Indeed, it is an evil abode and an evil station.” Hell is a permanent place of residence for unbelievers while it is temporary station for the sinful believers.

 Ayah 67: “Those who, when spending, are neither wasteful nor tight-fisted, but are stationed between these two extremes.”

The sixth characteristic of the “Servants of Allah” is that they exercise moderation in spending.

 Extravagance and transgression has been discouraged in Islam and is considered a trait of Pharaoh. Ayah 83 of Surah al-Younus says: “The Pharaoh was certainly a tyrant and a transgressor.” And also Ayah 43 of Surah al-Ghafir says: “Our return is to Allah and the transgressors will be the dwellers in Hell Fire.” Transgression as it is reflects self-centeredness, selfishness and carelessness of the people’s needs. At the other end is the miserliness when people do not want to spend at all. The Virtuous spend in moderation.

Ayah 68: “Those who do not include another God besides Allah, and do not kill a soul (whose life) Allah has made inviolable, except with due cause, and do not commit fornication. Whoever does that, shall encounter its retribution.”

The seventh characteristic of the “Servants of Allah” is that they have complete faith in the Unity of Allah. Their individual and collective life is brightened by total belief in the Oneness of Allah (s.w.t.)

The eighth characteristic of the “Servants of Allah” is that they do not commit murder of innocent people except in due course of law. It is clear from this Ayah that every human being’s life is precious, respectable and important. Hence it is prohibited to kill anyone except as required by the law of the land. Murder is one of the “Greater Sins” where Hell Fire is guaranteed.

The ninth characteristic of the “Servants of Allah” is that they do not commit adultery. They desire to create a social order which is free from polytheism, corruption, fornication, oppression, pollution and chaos. Adultery is also one of the “Greater Sins”.  It is reported that Ibn Masood inquired from the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) as to which is the biggest sin? The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) replied: “To believe in a partner of Allah” Ibn Masood said: “Which is the next?” He (s.a.w.s.) replied: “To kill your children for fear of poverty” Ibn Masood said: “What next?” He (s.a.w.s.) said: “Adultery with your neighbor’s wife.”

Ayah 69: “The punishment will be doubled for him on the Day of Judgment. In it he will abide in humiliation forever,”

Reason for the punishment being doubled may be one sin may cause other sins as a consequence of the first one. And also the insult and disgrace which ensues the punishment.

Ayah 70: “excepting those who repent, attain faith, and act righteously. For such, Allah replaces their misdeeds with good deeds, for Allah is All-Forgiving and All-Merciful. Because of the paramount Mercy, Allah have kept the door of repentance open for the people who perform “True and Sincere” repentance, who do not repeat the sin and make amend for the past behavior.

Ayah 71: “And whoever repents and acts righteously indeed turns to Allah with due patience.”When a person repents and returns to Allah, it deeply affects his entire personality.  Consequently, his bad behavior turns into good deeds if he patiently pursues the right path.

Ayah 72: “Those who do not give false testimony, and when they come up with vain, pass by in dignity.

The tenth characteristic is that they respect and protect other people’s rights and never give false testimony, and avoid meaningless and unproductive situations. Such situations include music, alcohol, back-biting and falsehood, because such gatherings not only support vices, but also provide pollution of spirit and heart. Without being rude, they ignore the unproductive situations and proceed towards virtues.

Ayah 73: “And those who, when admonished by the signs of their Lord, do not fall thereat deaf and blind.”

The eleventh characteristic is that the “Servants of Allah” are not superficial but carefully investigate and reach the depth of the signs of Allah. Such superficial people are easily misled. Deep thinking and farsighted people face the adverse situations bravely and steadfastly. They are not impulsive, but with a cool mind dig deep into the repth of the matter and then take a decision and act firmly over it.

Ayah 74: “And those who pray “O’ Our Lord! Make our spouses and children to be delight of our eyes, and (for) us (appoint) an Imam (leader) of the pious ones.”

The twelfth characteristic of the “Servants of Allah” is that they pay utmost attention to the discipline and training of their spouse and children. It includes imparting knowledge about the “Roots and Branches “of Islam, emphasizing about justice and truth in every walk of life and then pray to Allah that they become the “cool of eyes”. Allah had created this world on the basis of Cause and Effect. Hence, we should make every sustained effort to guide our families and then pray to Allah for the success.

Sources used:

Translation of the Noble Qur’an                                         by Ali Quli Qara’i

Translation of the Noble Qur’an                                         by S.V.Mir Ahmed Ali & Ayatullah Pooya Yazdi

Translation of the Noble Qur’an                                         by Ayatullah Nasir Makarem Shirazi

DAUGHTER OF HAZRAT KHADIJAH (S.A.), SAYYIDAH FATIMA ZAHRA (S.A.)

Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) was the richest woman of Arabia. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) worked for her as the administrator of her enormous trading empire carrying goods to parts of the Middle East where there was demand for it. During these trade journeys, her special servant, Maysarah, witnessed many miracles from the young Muhammad (s.a.w.a.s.) and reported back to her. She was very impressed with his honesty, sincerity and exemplary morals. She herself initiated to marry the young Muhammad (s.a.w.a.s.).

There is a proverbial saying: “Islam did not spread in the world except through (Imam) Ali’s Zulfiqar and the enormous wealth of Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.)”. She had earned the titles of “Ameerat-ul-Quraish” – Princess of Quraish and al-Tahira, the Pure One, due to her impeccable personality and virtuous character, not to mention the honorable descent. She was from the tribe of Banu Asad, a clan of Banu Hashim. Before the dawn of Islam, she was already practicing “Silae Rahm”. She used to feed and provide clothes to the poor and needy, assist financially her relatives and bear the expenses of marriage of her deserving kin. She never believed or worship idols. She was the first woman to embraced Islam along with Imam Ali (a.s.), a young boy at that time.

The marriage between Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) and Muhammad (s.a.w.a.s.), the Noble Prophet, was solemnized. According to the narratives of both Sunni and Shi’a scholars, on the night of Ascension (Me’raj), the Archangel Jibra’il presented some fruits of Tooba to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and he ate them. On return to earth, the seed of Sayyidah Fatima was coagulated from that heavenly fruits and thus Hazrat Khadija (s.a.) conceived her. It is reported that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) used to kiss Sayyidah Fatima frequently. One day, Hazrat A’isha inquired as to why he (s.a.w.a.s.) kissed Sayyidah Fatima so much. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) replied: “Whenever I kiss Fatima I smell the scent of Highest Heaven in her.” Thus Sayyidah Fatima Zahra (s.a.) was born on the 20^th day of Jamadi al-Thani, and with her birth, the taunts and reproaches of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)’s opponents were silenced. Allah (s.w.t.) had granted “al-Kausar” to his Messenger as mentioned in Surah al-Kausar. She was destined to be the “Ummul A’immah” or the Mother of the Golden Chain of Infallible Imams. She was to have the “Princes of Youths of Paradise” who shall represent “The Sons” in the forthcoming event of Mubahelah”. On the eve of “The Certification of The Most Truthful” as required by the Ayah 61 of Surah Al-e- Imran which says: “If anyone disputes after knowledge has come to you, say, “Let us summon our sons and (you summon) your sons, and (we summon) our women and (you) your women, and (we summon) our selves and (you) your selves and then let us invoke and lay the curse of Allah on the liars.” The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) took with him Imam Hasan (a.s.), Imam Husayn (a.s.), Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), and the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.).

As the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) had said: “Fatima is a Huri in human form”. Hence, her Purity was subsequently confirmed by Allah (s.w.t.) in Surah al-Ahzab, Ayah 33 which says: “Verily, verily Allah intends but to repel from you (every kind of) uncleanness O’ People of The House, and Purify you (with) a through Purification.” As narrated in “Hadees-e-Kisa”, when Arch Angel Jibra’il inquired as to who were under the cloak (Kisa), Allah (s.w.t.) introduced Sayyidah Fatima Zahra (s.a.) and relates “The Pnajetan” as “She is Fatima, her father, her husband and her children”

Growing in the house of revelation, gave Sayyidah Fatima Zahra (s.a.) a chance to achieve the highest degree of perfection and excellence. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) taught her the Divine knowledge and endowed her with special intelligence, so that she realized the true meaning of faith, piety, and the reality of Islam.

Surah al-Nur Ayah 35 which says: “Allah is the light of the heavens and the earth. A metaphor for His light is a niche in which there is a lamp placed in a glass….” Ibn al Maghazli al-Shafi’I has related that the niche means Hazrat Fatimah (s.a.); the lamp means Hasan (a.s.) and Hussayn (a.s.).

Surah al-Isra’ Ayah 26 which says: “Give the kinsmen his dues….” Commentators have related that when this Ayah was revealed, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) asked Arch Angel Jibra’il: Who are the kinsmen and what is their due? Jibra’il replied: Give Fadak to Fatima for it is her due, and whatever is due to Allah and the Prophet out of Fadak, that also belongs to her. There upon the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) called Fatima and wrote the deed of gift, giving Fadak to her. (Tafsir Durre Mansoor, volume 4 page 177)

Extra ordinary love of the Prophet for Fatimah: It is said that “Love of the beloved of God is love of God.” According to narratives from Sunni and Shi’a sources, the following incidents are worth mentioning:

“There is no man more loved by the Prophet than Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) and no woman more loved than Sayyida Fatimah (s.a.)”

When this Ayah was revealed saying: “Make not the calling of the Messenger among you as your calling of one another”, the Muslims did not address the Prophet as “O Muhammad” any more, instead they said: “O Messenger of God”. Sayyidah Fatimah Zahra (s.a.) said: “After this Ayah was revealed, I did not dare calling my father as “father dear”. After that when I addressed him as “O’ Messenger of Allah”, he did not like it and turned his face away. He said: “O’ Fatimah, this Ayah was not revealed for you, not for your family and your descendants. You are of me and I am of you. Say, father dear; for this word is more life giving for the heart and more pleasing to God.” (Manaqib Ibne-Shaher Ashub)

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “Whoever harms Fatimah has harmed me and whoever angers her has made me angry; and whoever has made her glad has made me glad, and whoever saddens her has made me sad.”

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) also said: “Fatimah is part of me, whoever annoys her annoys me.”

This Tradition carries an utmost importance. It is a fact that all the physical and spiritual qualities which are in the main body are completely found in the part. Hence, if the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was the Messenger of Allah and responsible for preaching Islam, it is a natural corollary that Sayyidah Fatima also preached Islam to the women folks. That must be the reason when Sayyidah Fatima Zahra (s.a.) came in the presence of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.); he would stand up and gave respect to her not as a daughter but as the partner in preaching Islam!

Sources used:

The Golrious Qur’an

Fatima Zahra: The World’s Most Outstanding Lady                         by Ayatullah Makarem Shirazi

Fatimah, The Gracious                                                                       by Abu Muhammad Ordani

Hazrat Fatimah Az-Zahra                                                                   al-Islam.org

GRAND AYATULLAH MUHAMMAD TAQI BEHJAT (R.A.)

Grand Ayatullah Muhammad Taqi Behjat was born into a pious family in 1915 A.D. in Fuman, Iran and died in 2009 in Qum, Iran. When his father was about 17 years old, he fell sick and was in a critical condition, when the people around him heard a voice saying: “Do not worry; he will be fine because he will be the father of Muhammad Taqi!” He survived the sickness, got married and the Ayatullah was born. His father was a reciter of “Marsiyas” and would take the young Taqi with him to the recitals thus inculcating a deep love for Imam Hussayn (a.s.)

After completing his primary education, he moved to Karbala, Iraq. After 4 years, he move to the world renown Seminary at Najaf al-Ashraf, Iraq where he received religious education from renowned scholars like Ayatullah Isphani, Ayatullah Na’ini, Ayatullah Taqi Shirazi, Ayatullah Hasan Badkubeyi, and Ayatullah Ali Qazi Tabatabai. After 15 years, he returned to Qum where he was in the company of Ayatullah Khomeini and Ayatullah Gulpaegani and others. He was a student of Ayatullah Burujerdi.

Piety and Self-building: From his youth, Agha Behjat was constantly engaged in self-purification and self-building. He thought that ethical purity (Akhlaq) and knowledge (Ilm) always go hand in hand. He advised the students to read and practice at least one hadees on “Jihad fil Nafs” in Wasail-alShia by Shaykh Hur al-Amili. A great Mujtahid has said that Agha Bejat was a true essence and manifestation of Taqwa! As per his students, Agha Behjat never wasted a moment of his time and would not attend a vain gathering. He was extremely reserved and would not reveal anything about himself especially about the special favors and extraordinary spiritual powers that Allah has granted him.

Asceticism and Simple Life Style: The close servants of Allah look at the reality of this world. By foregoing material comforts, they attain spiritual strength and soar in the illuminated heights of proximity to Allah. Agha Behjat was one of such “Aulias” and lived a simple life. He lived in a rented two room apartment, one of which was used to teach students.

Worship: He led prayers in the Fatimiya Mosque and the people who had prayed behind him said that it was a unique and spiritually uplifting experience. High ranking scholars including Ayatullah Tabatabai’ used to attend his congregations. As soon as he starts the prayer, tears would trickle from his eyes and frequently he had to pause because his voice would choke with emotions. He never missed his late night prayers (Namz-e-Shab), especially the night preceding Fridays.

Ziarat and Tawassul: Despite his advance years, Agha Behjat’s routine remained unchanged. Every morning at 7 A.M., he would present himself at the Holy Shrine of Lady Fatima Masouma (S.A.) to pay his respects and recite Ziarat-e-Asoorah of Imam Hussayn (a.s.). While in Najaf al-Ashraf, he would visit Masjid-e-Sahlah and spent the whole nights all alone worshiping and contemplating.

Humbleness: One of his noticeable traits was his humbleness and simplicity, despite his fame and status as the leading contemporary scholar and jurist. For many years he refused to print his religious edicts (Tauzih al Masa’il) and he only agreed after much pressure. When he was scheduled to lecture, he requested that his name may not be mentioned as a speaker.

Mystical wayfaring and Spiritual Station: Agha Behjat had many decades of experience in mystical wayfaring, the special journey through established stations that the soul undertakes to attain proximity with Allah. He was an outstanding pupil of the Great Master Ayatullah Sayyid Ali Qazi Tabatabai’. Even as a youth he had passed many stations of spiritual path. Immediately after the Revolution, Ayatullah Khomeini visited Agha Behjat. Similarly, when Ayatullah Khamene’i assumed the position of “Rahbar”, he first came to see Agha Behjat.

Awareness of Unseen (Ghayb) and Wondrous Acts (Kamalat): Agha Behjat had reached that station where he frequently witnessed the events that occur in the “Unseen World”. He used to recite “al-Sattaar” meaning The Concealer. He would recite this name of Allah constantly. Ayatullah Misbah Yazdi said: “It seems that he was at the level where he witnessed many things from Ghayb. Often he was aware of the real nature and inner secrets of those who sit around him, and he invoked Allah who is the Concealer of the defects-al-Sattaar al-Uyoob, so that the secrets of the people sitting around him may be concealed from him.”

Servants of Allah who are close to Him, in their humbleness they do not display or do anything so as to avoid the slightest trace of pride in their personalities and in return Allah grants even more insights and status. For example, when Ayatullah Khomeini was in exile in Turkey some of his supporters were arrested by the Shah’s government. One of such detainees was Agha Jannati, when it was brought to Agha Behjat’s attention, he said: “Insha Allah, soon you will inform me of his release!” Similarly, one of his student’s wife was expecting a baby; and Agha Behjat said: “In this month you will be blessed with a baby boy, name him Muhammad Hassan”

Words of Wisdom of Agha Behjat: In reply to a question about “Riya” or “show off”, Agha Behjat said: “Riya is relevant only in acts of worship (Ibada) and it is a sin which makes the Ibada void.

In reply to a question about lack of pleasure and satisfaction in prayers, Agha Behjat said: “One should completely abstain from sins, and do not blacken your heart with the disobedience of Allah. He should prepare a barrier around his heart so that no other thought other than Allah may enter the heart. In order to achieve that one should control his five senses during the day and be careful about what he allows himself to see, hear, and eat etc.”

In reply to another question, Agha Behjat said: “Make a firm resolve that your knowledge and actions are harmonious.” Regarding the people who preach but do not practice, Agha Behjat said: “An Alim who does not act on his knowledge is like a candle that illuminates the path for others but itself burs away.”

Other sayings of Agha Behjat: Namaaz (prayer) symbolizes the Ka’aba, the “takbir-atul-Ihram” stands for casting everything other than Allah and entering his sanctuary. The Qiyam represents a conversation between two friends. The Ruku’ symbolizes the bowing of a slave in front of his Master and Sajdah is the ultimate display of lowness, humility and helplessness in front of the Master. And when the slave returns from such a namaz, the souvenir he brings back is the greetings of peace (Salaam) from his Lord.

Control your tongue and maintain silence, we must spend 23 hours of the day in contemplating and thought.

Constantly remember Allah and recite “Zikr” so that one perceives himself in the presence of Allah.

To combat “Waswasah” perform “Tahlil” which is the Zikr – “La Ilaha Illalah”?

Consider one’s own virtues as insignificant while regarding highly the good deeds of others.

Continually ask yourself if my attitude, conduct, speech and action would please The Imam-e-Zamanah.

Dua’a governs the outcome of every stage of our life.

Your ultimate goal should be The Proximity of Allah.

Sources used:

Shaikh Abbas Jaffer                                                                                              Islamic-Laws.com

WIKIPEDIA

IMAM ALI ZAIN-AL-ABEDIN (A.S.)'S PRAYERS FOR PARENTS

Imam Ali Zain-al-Abedin (a.s.) was one of the Infallible Guides for the Muslims; he had compiled various supplications for different occasions encountered by the Muslim Ummah. He was infallible and there is no question of making any error let alone any sin. But he had guided his followers how to pray and supplicate to Allah (s.w.t.)

All his supplications were collected in a book called “SAHIFA-E-KAMILA”. It is also called “SAHIFA-E-SAJJADIA” derived from one of his titles as “SAJJAD”; meaning the one who prostrates enormously. The book contains over 60 supplications. These supplications are a manifestation of his Divine Knowledge. He was the grandson of the “Gateway of Knowledge” as pronounced by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) praising Imam Ali (a.s.)

The famous Islamic philosopher Shaykh Tantavi Jauhari writes about this book as: “After reading these supplications, I was overwhelmed by the greatness of these supplications. I was surprised that why this Treasure was obscured from Muslims for all these centuries. Why the Muslims were ignorant of this Gift of Allah!”

The Imam (a.s.)’s supplication for parents is as follows:

O Allah, Bless Muhammad, your slave and Messenger, and his Progeny, the Pure, and single them out for the best of your Blessings, your Mercy, your Grace, and your peace!

And single out my parents, O Allah, for Honor with You and Blessings from You, O Most Merciful of the merciful.

O Allah, Bless Muhammad, and his Progeny, teach me through inspiration knowledge of everything incumbent upon me towards them, and gather within me knowledge of all that completely. Then make me act in accordance with what You have inspired me and give me the success to put into practice the knowledge You have shown to me, lest I fail to act according to something You have taught me or my limbs feel too heavy to perform that which You have inspired me.

O Allah, Bless Muhammad and his Progeny as You have ennobles us through him, and Bless Muhammad and his Progeny, as You have made incumbent upon us rights towards the creatures because of him!

O Allah, fill me with awe of my parents, the awe one has towards a tyrannical sovereign, and let me be devoted to them, with the devotion of a compassionate mother! Make my obedience and devotion to them more gladdening to my eyes than sleep to the drowsy and more refreshing to my breast than drink to the thirsty so that I may prefer their inclination to my inclination, set their satisfaction before my satisfaction, make much of their devotion to me through it be little and make little of my devotion to them though it be great.  

O Allah, lower before them my voice, make agreeable to them my words, make mild before them my temper, make tender towards them  my heart, and turn me into their kind companion, their loving friend!

O Allah, thank them for my upbringing, reward them for honoring me, and guard them as they guarded me in my infancy!

O Allah, and whatever harm have touched them from me, detested things have touched them from me, or right of theirs which has been neglected by me, allow it to alleviate their sins, raise them in their degrees, and add to their good deeds.

O Allah, whatever words through which they have transgressed against me, act through which they have been immoderate with me, right of mine which they have left neglected, or obligation towards me in which they have fallen short, I grant it to them and bestow it upon them, and I beseech you to remove from them its ill consequence, for I do not accuse them concerning myself, find them slow in their devotion towards me, or disliked the way they have attended to my affairs, My Lord.

They have rights against me which are more incumbent, precedence in beneficence towards me that is greater, and kindness towards me that is mightier than that I should settle account with justice or repay them with equivalents. Where then, My Lord, would be their long occupation with bringing me up? Where the hard ship of their toil in taking care of me? Where the stinting of themselves to provide me with plenty?  

What an idea! I can never discharge their rights against me, fulfill my obligations towards them. So Bless Muhammad and his Progeny and help me. O best of those Whose help we seek! Give me success, O most guiding of those whom we beseech! Place me not among the people of disrespect to their fathers and mothers on the day when every soul will be repaid of what it has earned, they shall not be wronged.

O Allah, Bless Muhammad and his Progeny and single out my parents for the best which You have singled out for the fathers and mothers of Your faithful servants, O Most Merciful of the merciful!

O Allah let me not forget to remember them after my ritual prayers, at every time throughout my night, and in each of the hours of my day.

Bless Muhammad and his Progeny, forgive me through my supplication for my parents, forgive them through their devotion towards me with unfailing forgiveness, be well pleased with them through my intercession for them, with resolute good pleasure, and make them reach through Your Generosity the abodes of safety!

O Allah, if Your Forgiveness reaches them first, make them my intercessors, and if Your forgiveness reaches me first , make me their intercessors, so that we may gather together through Your Gentleness in the house of Your Generosity , and the place of Your Forgiveness and Mercy! Verily, You are Possessor of abounding bounty and ancient Kindness, and You are the Most Merciful of the merciful.

AL-SHAYKH AL-SADUQ (R.A.)

Abu Jaffer Muhammad Ibn Ali Ibn Babuyah is known as Al-Shaykh Al-Saduq. He earned the title of “Al-Shaykh Al-Saduq” because of his great learning and his reputation for truthfulness. His father, Al-Shaykh Ali was a leading figure among the scholars of Qum, Iran.

The date of birth of the Shaykh is not known exactly. However, an interesting story surrounds his birth. When his father was in Iraq, he met with Abul Qasim al-Hussayn bin Rawh, the third agent of the Hidden Imam. He wrote a letter to al-Hussayn bin Rawh and requested him to carry it to the Hidden Imam. In this letter he asked for a son. Al-Hussayn wrote back an answer stating that they (the Hidden Imam and al-Hussayn) had prayed for him and that he will have two sons. Another version of the story says three sons. On the basis of this story, every Shi’ite scholar has placed his birth after the year 305 A.H. He was born in Qum and was educated by his father and came into close contact with all the leading scholars in Qum and studied under many of them. He travelled widely visiting many cities in search of Traditions and as a result the number of scholars he learned Traditions from is 211.

Shaykh Tusi puts the number of his books at over 300. There are some of his books still in manuscript form yet to be printed. He spent most of his time in collection and compilation of Traditions. He was a great teacher of Traditions. His last days were spent in Rayy, which is present day Tehran. He died in 381A.H. and was buried in Rayy.

Man La Yahzruhu al-Faqih: It is one of the major Shiite books on Traditions of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and his Pure Progeny (a.s.). Man La Yahzuruhu al-Faqih is translated as for the one who does not have a jurist present before him. It contains the Traditions about the laws of Islam or “Furu”. The book was translated by E.G. Brown as “Every man his own lawyer”. Shaykh Saduq compiled individual books with complete Asnaad on every topic of Jurisprudence like Book of Marriage or Book of the Pilgrimage etc. Asnad is the plural of Sanad. Sanad is the most important part of compiling Tradition. It is the chain of authorities by which the Tradition has been received from the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) or the Infallible Imams (a.s.). Man La Yahzuru-al Faqih is a summary of the Traditions on different Islamic jurisprudence without the detailed “Asnads” meant to be a reference book for ordinary Shia. The book is divided into sections or Abwaab. It contains 9,044 Traditions.The book was translated into Urdu.

In many cases, he had elaborated the Tradition so as to draw some rules from it. Commentaries on the book were written by al-Sayyid Ahmad b. Zain al-Abidin al-Alawi al-Amili and Muhammad Taqi al-Majlisi al-Awwal. The book has recently been published in four volumes in Tehran.

His other books included the following:

11.  Oyoon Akhbar ar-Rida which had been dedicated to Sahib ibn Ebad, the wise minister of Ale Buyeh Dynasty also included certain Traditions of Infallible Imam ar-Riza (a.s.)

.   2   Kamal al-din wa tamam al-ni’mah or the perfection of religion and the end of blessings. The book relates to Imam Zamanah (a.t.f.) including questions about the Occultation for non-believers.

3.3       Ma’ani al-Akhbar in which he explained the shades of complexities of interpretation of Quran and Traditions.

4. 4      Al-Khisal which is about moral instructions, points of scientific, historical and legal origins which had been organized according to the numerical hiearchies.

5.5       Al-Mali in which his students had collected all his speeches and lessons.

6.6       Ill-al Sharai or cause of situations which includes the reasons behind the philosophy of Islamic ordinances.

7.7       Al-Amali

8.8       Sifat us-Shia

9.9       Al-Hidayatu fil Fiqah

110.   Al-Itiqadaat

111.   Thawab ul A’amaal

112.   Iqab ul A’mal

113.   Fazael-ush- Shia

114.   Mussadaqatul  Ikhwan 

115.   Meaani  al-Akhbar

116.   Al-Mawaaezah

117.   Faza’al ul-ashhoor it-Tahalata

Sources used:

Great Shia Works: Man La Yahduruhal Faqih                        By Dr. I.K.A. Howard

WIKIPEDIA

ZIARAT-E-SAYYIDAH FATIMA ZAHRA (S.A.), THE BELOVED DAUGHTER OF THE NOBLE PROPHET (S.A.W.S.)

O thoroughly tested, your creation was out measured by Allah before you were brought into being; so found you, as expected, in your examination, proper and accurate.

We declare this because we are your followers, aware of the truth, and are bound to all that which came with your father (blessings of Allah are upon him and his Pure Progeny) and his successor.

So, we expect, if we rightly make known your truthfulness, nothing but our duty, and for our testimony for them,

to receive from you good tidings for ourselves, because our sincere friendship with you purifies us.

Peace be upon you, O Daughter of the Messenger of Allah.

Peace be upon you, O Daughter of the Prophet of Allah.

Peace be upon you, O Daughter of the dearest beloved of Allah.

Peace be upon you, O Daughter of the sincere servant of Allah.

Peace be upon you, O Daughter of the faithful confidant of Allah.

Peace be upon you, O Daughter of the best creation of Allah.

Peace be upon you, O Daughter of the superior most among the Prophets of Allah,and His Messengers and His angles.

Peace be upon you, O Daughter of “the Best Individual.”

Peace be upon you, O Chief of the Women of the Worlds, from the beginning to the end.

Peace be upon you, O wife of the Representative of Allah, the Best Creation, after the Messenger of Allah.

Peace be upon you, O Mother of Hasan and Hussayn, the Prime Leaders of the Youths of Paradise.

Peace be upon you, O the Truthful Martyre.

Peace be upon you, O Thankfully Satisfied.

Peace be upon you, O Distinctly Wise.

Peace be upon you, O Heavenly Beauty in Human Shape.

Peace be upon you, O God fearing, Pure and Holy.

Peace be upon you, O Wise who conversed with the Angels.

Peace be upon you, O wrongfully and unlawfully kept out, under duress.

Peace be upon you, O was made a victim of violent treatment.

Peace be upon you, O Fatima, the Daughter of the Messenger of Allah, and Mercy of Allah and His Blessings.

Blessings of Allah be upon you, on your soul and body.

I bear witness that, verily, you departed from this world as a convincing Proof of Allah and that he who made you happy, indeed, had satisfied the Messenger of Allah, blessings of Allah be upon him and his Progeny.

He who opposed you, in fact, had opposed the Messenger of Allah, blessings of Allah be upon him and his Progeny.

He who hurt you, in fact, had hurt the Messenger of Allah, blessings of Allah be upon him and his Progeny.

He who loved you, in fact, had loved the Messenger of Allah, blessings of Allah be upon him and his Progeny.

He who disrespected you, in fact, had disrespected the Messenger of Allah, blessings of Allah be upon him and his Progeny.

Certainly, you are part and parcel, and his joy, permanently attached to his body and soul.

I call Allah as a witness, and His Messenger, and His angels, that indeed he is my friend, whom your love is available, he is my enemy who is your opponent, he is my adversary who makes war against you.

I have full faith in you O the Most Noble Lady, with your father, with your husband, and with the Imams in your Progeny; sure of your children, faithful unto their authority, and have taken obedience unto them as a duty upon myself.

I affirm that “the religion” is their religion and “the authority” is their authority.

They certainly performed their duty unto the Almighty, the Glorious Allah, and called unto the Path of Allah with wisdom and good advice, criticism of the mean did not deter them.

Blessings of Allah be upon you, and upon your father, and upon your husband, and upon your Progeny, the Pure Imams. O Allah! Send Blessings upon Muhammad, peace be upon him and upon the People of the House.

Bless the Batool, the Pure, Infallible, Truthful, God-fearing, Holy, Agreeing, Satisfied, Wise, Upright, Wronged, Unjustly treated, Oppressed, prevented from getting her rights, her house was set on fire, her ribs were broken, her husband was wronged, her children were killed.

Fatima, Daughter of Your Prophet, his flesh and blood, his peace of mind, his heart’s beat, and a choice of You she is, a rare precious particularized masterpiece for his successor, beloved of Mustafa, soul and self of Murtaza, Chief of the women,  supporter of the chaste, and the devotees of Allah, vision of the kingdom to come, rejoiced in glory the women of Paradise on her birth, the lights of the Imams were drawn out from her, no one is covered, except her, with the inherent quality of Prophet hood,

O Allah, send Blessings upon her, which add more and more to her position near You, and glorify her honor before You, so that her status gives You joy and delight. Convey our salutations to her, and give us many bounties, gifts, mercy and forgiveness on account of our love for her. Verily! You are forgiving, kind.  

 Ziaraat.com

Duas.org

SAYYIDAH FATIMA ZAHRA (S.A.)'S NAMES

Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) was like a diamond which has numerous faces. She had many names. Each name reflects one aspect of her infallible personality. Following are some of the names perceived by her followers, admirers and seekers of her intercession on the fateful Day of Judgment:

UMME ABIHA                   MOTHER OF HER FATHER

TAHIRA                               PURE

BATUL                                 ASCETIC VIRGIN

SAYYIDAH                          THE LEADER

MASTURAH                        CHASTE, VEILED

AZ-ZAHRA                           THE BRILLIANT SHINY

MA’SUMAH                        SINLESS

MARHUMAH                     ENVELOPED IN ALLAH’S MERCY

RAKI’AH                              ONE WHO BOWS TO ALLAH IN WORSHIP

SAJIDAH                              ONE WHO PROSTRATES TO ALLAH IN WORSHIP

SAIMAH                               ONE WHO FASTS

SANIYAH                             CHASTE, VIRTUOUS

ZAHIDAH                             PIOUS, ABSTAINER

ABIDAH                                WORSHIPPER OF ALLAH

WALIYYAH                          SAINT

TAQIYYAH                          DEVOUT, GOD-FEARING

ZAKIYYAH                           PURE

RADIYYAH                          WELL PLEASED WITH ALLAH AS HER LORD

ALIYYAH                              MOST HIGH

SAFIYYAH                           THE CHOOSEN

HALIMA                               GENTLE, FORBEARING

HAKIMAH                           WISE

NASIBAH                             OF NOBLE LINEAGE

JAMILAH                            BEAUTIFUL

JALILAH                              SUBLIME, MAJESTIC

HABIBAH                             BELOVED BY ALL

MUSHFIQAH                       COMPASSIONATE, KINDLY

SALIHAH                              MOST PIOUS, RIGHTEOUS

MUSABBIHAH                   ONE WHO GLORIFIES ALLAH

MUHAMMADAH               ONE WHO IS PRAISED

MUKABBIRAH                   ONE WHO PROCLAIMS ALLAH’S GREATNESS

QARIYAH                             RECITER OF GLORIOUS QUR’AN

FADILAH                              PERSONIFICATION OF VIRTUE

WASILAH                            A MEANS TO APPROACH ALLAH

NAJIBAH                              NOBLE, DISTINGUISHED, OUTSTANDING

SHARIFAH                           NOBLE

KARIMAH                           GENEROUS

MUKARRAMAH                HONORED

ALIMAH                               MOSR TRULY LEARNED

MUHTARAMAH                 REVERED, ESTEEMED, RESPECTED

SHAFI’AH                            INTERCESSOR BEFORE ALLAH

UMMIYYAH                        EXEMPLARY MOTHER

NASIHAH                            TRUE ADVISER

JAHIDA                                 EXERTS IN THE WAY OF ALLAH

MUJTAHIDAH                   STRIVES IN THE WAY OF ALLAH

NASIYAH                             THE CORNER STONE OF MUSLIM NATION

DAFIYAH                             MINGLES WITH THE POOR AND OPPRESSED

SAHIBAH                             COMPANION OF THE NOBLE PROPHET (S.A.W.S.)

SAMIYAH                            TRUTHFULLY BRAVE

NUR                                       LIGHT

BINTE NUR                          THE DAUGHTER OF THE ONE WHO WAS LIGHT

Source used:                      Five14dotcom