WAS AZAR THE FATHER OF PROPHET IBRAHIM (A.S.)?

No, Azar was not the father but uncle of Prophet Ibrahim (a.s.).

His father’s name was Tarukh, according to Al-Mizan, Majma-ul-Bayan, and Jawami ul Jami. Ibn Katheer wrote, “Ibrahim (a.s.) was the son of Tarukh. When Tarukh was 75 years of age, Ibrahim (a.s.) was born to him.” (volume 1 page 139) Also reported in al-Bidaya wan Nahaya and History of Tabari (volume 1 page 119), The famous Sunni scholar in Tafsir Tabari by Ibn Jarir al-Tabari (volume 7 page 158). Similarly, many Shi’ite and Sunni scholars have confirmed the fact that Tarukh was the biological father of prophet Ibrahim. A few of them are Tabarsi in Majma-ul-Bayan, Neyshapuri in Qaraib-ul-Qur’an, Allama Fakhruddin Razi in Tafsir-ul-Kabeer, Allama Alusi in Ruh-ul-Ma’ni. (volume 7 page 169)

The famous Sunni scholar Suyuti writes in Masalak-ul-Hunafa quotes Fakhruddin Razi in Asrarul-Tanzil stressed the forefathers of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) were never polytheist. He further argued that the prophets’ forefathers till Hazrat Adam were the best in their times.

According to the Shi’ite faith, all 124,000 prophets sent by Allah to guide the humanity were infallible. Polytheism is one of the greater sins, hence no prophet or his ancestor could be a polytheist.

Before we proceed to establish our contention, let us discuss the enormity of Arabic language that for every word there are more than one meaning to it. “Ab” has also many meanings including teacher, father, ancestor, uncle. Each person who takes pains and exertion in the upbringing, may be referred as “Ab”.

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “Ali and I both are the fathers of this community”

According to Jawami ul Jami, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “Ceaselessly, Allah, the Sublime, transported me from the purified lions of men into the purified wombs (of mothers) and never had He polluted me with the filth of paganism”

Prophet Ibrahim promised his uncle Azar to pray for his forgiveness, but when he saw that his uncle was in a state of disbelieve, then he stopped praying for him. (Surah al-Tawbah Ayah 114 refers to it.)

Prophet Ibrahim prays for his parents in the following Ayah 41 of Surah Ibrahim, “Lord, on the Day of Judgment, forgive me and my parents and all the believers.” Here the Arabic word “Wa’lid” has been used which is the biological father.

Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 133 says, “Ney, were you witnesses when death approached Yaqoub (Jacob)? When he said to his sons: what will you worship after me? They said: We will worship your God and the God of your forefathers Ibrahim, Ismail and Is’haque, the One (true) God alone and to Him do we submit.” Prophet Ismail was not Yaqoub’s father or forefathers, but he was Yaqoub’s uncle. But in the Ayah the word “aba” is used which is the plural of the word “Ab” Hence it is confirmed that in Arabic the word “Ab” is used for uncle also.

               Sources: The glorious Qur’an (Urdu translation) by Ayatollah Nasir Makarem Shirazi

                              Shi’ite Encyclopedia, Enlightening Commentary into the Light of Glorious                                    Qur’an

GOLDEN SAYINGS OF THE INFALLIBLE IMAM JA'FAR AS-SADIQ (A.S.)

Selected sayings of the Imam (a.s.) are reproduced below:

The person moving to help his Momin brothers, is like the person who is walking between Safa and Marwa.

The desire for the worldly pleasures causes grief and sadness. Its abstinence brings rest of heart and body.

A Muslim is one who has knowledge about the religion, good management of life, perseverance facing calamity.

A true believer is the one whose sexual appetite does not overcome him, and whose stomach does not shame him.

Enjoining good and forbidding evil should be practiced with a believer who may learn a lesson, or an ignorant to learn

Allah should not see you in situations against which He warned, miss you in situations of which He ordered.

Asked about short instruction that collects welfare of both worlds, he (a.s.) said: Never tell untruths.

Debt is grief at night and humility in day.

Treat your fathers piously so that your sons treat you piously.

Salutation (Salaam) is voluntary (Sunnah) while responding is obligatory (Wajib).

Do not answer those who speak before they greet you.

Shake hands, because this will confiscate malice.

As for those who control themselves in rage, desire, fear and lust, Allah will prevent Hell from burning their bodies.

He who recognizes Allah accurately will fear Him. He who fears Allah accurately will disregard the worldly pleasures.

We love those who are intelligent, knowledgeable, perceptive, expert, clement, courteous, patient, veracious and loyal.

The firmest handle of faith is to love, hate, give and deprive – all for Allah’s sake.

You should not trust the betrayer after you have tested him, and you should not accuse him whom you have trusted.

Beware of associating with the lowly, because the association with them will never lead to welfare.

Good mannerism is a part of the religion. It increases the earnings.

The actual generous charitable individual is the one who spends his wealth for fulfilling the rights of Allah.

You should know that I will fulfill the trust of even the killer of Imam Ali (a.s.) if he deposits something with me or seeks advice of consultation.

A believer should never have bad temper, bad humor, envy, obduracy, fabrication and oppression.

Daughters are advantages and sons are graces. You will be rewarded for the advantages and asked about the graces.

Source: www.ezsoftech.com

THE DISTRESSED ONES

Supplication and prayer (Du’a) are a part of human nature. Even atheists when in distress automatically exclaim “My God”. Similarly, in every religion the followers when in distress resort to supplication in their own way. Supplication or “Dau” in Arabic has been used 222 times in the Glorious Qur’an. Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 186, in this Ayah singular pronoun “Me” has been used 7 times when Allah says, “Wa Iza Sa’laka Ibadi Anni Fainni Qareeb Ujeebu Dawatddae Iza Daane Falyestajebu Li Walyumenu Bi Lallahum Yarshadun.” Translated as, “When My servants ask you concerning Me, then (say unto them:) verily, I am near: I answer the prayer of every supplicant when he calls on Me; so (they should) listen unto My call, and believe in Me, in order that they may be led a right.”

Normally, in our religious gatherings (Majalis) the speaker asks the people to recite Ayah 62 of Surah al-Namal, “Ammayn Yujeebul Muztarrah Iza Da’ahu Wa Yakshafus Su wa Yajalukum khulafa alarz Aelahu ma’allah Qaleelan Ma Tazakkarun” which means, “Or Who answeres the distressed one when he calls on Him and removes the distress and makes you (Imam Mahdi) the successors in the earth. Is there any god with Allah? Little it is that you heed.”

The infallible Imams of Islam guided the Muslims about how to supplicate, why the supplications are not responded by the Almighty. The sixth Infallible Imam Jafar as-Sadiq (a.s.) said, “Praise Allah and with benediction (Salawat) upon the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and his Pure Progeny. Thereafter confess your sins and then supplicate.” (Bihar ul Anwar v.93 page 312)

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “He who wishes that his supplications be answered must surely purify his food and his earnings (to be lawful)” He (s.a.w.a.s.) further said, “You should enjoin right and forbid wrong, or Allah will set up your wicked ones as absolute masters over your good ones. Then, whatsoever the good pray it will not be answered.” (Bihar ul Anwar v.93 page 372)

Once, someone complained to the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) that supplications were not being answered by Allah, he (a.s.) said: “Your hearts (minds) have acted treacherously (so your supplications are not answered):

1.      You have known Allah, but you have not paid His rights enjoined upon you.

2.      You have believed in His Messenger but opposed his Sunnah.

3.      Surely you have recited His revealed book, but you do not act accordingly.

4.      You say you fear the Hell Fire, while you always commit your own sins.

5.      You say you are eager and interested in Heaven (the Divine reward) but your actions send you away from it.

6.      Verily, you eat the blessings of Allah but do not show gratitude about it.

7.      Certainly, Allah has ordered you to be enemy of Satan. Verbally you claim that you are his enemy, but you make friends with him.

8.      You have put the faults of other people before your eyes and your own ones at your back.”

Show real distress sincerely in supplicating by raising the hands. There are many supplications recommended by our infallible Imams e.g. Dua-e- Kumayl, Dua-e-Jaushan Kabeer, Dua-e-Mujeer, Dua-e-Arafat by Imam Husayn (a.s.), Dua-e-Tawassul, Dua-e-Mashlool

Source: The Glorious Qur’an                                                     An Enlightening Commentary into the Light of the Qur’an

WHO ARE ON THE STRAIGHT PATH?

In Arabic language, there are two words “Ila” which means towards signifying direction, and other word is “Ala” which means on. For example, if we say a man A is going towards straight path, we say “Ila Sirat al-Musaqim”. On the other hand, when A is on the straight path, we say “Ala Sirat al Mustaqim”

The Prophets were guided by Allah towards the right path. Some of the Ayahs of the Glorious Qur’an are given below:

Surah al-Nahl Ayah 120 and 121, Allah says, “Ibrahim was, certainly, an obedient person and submissive to the Will of Allah. He was not a pagan. He was thankful to Allah for His bounties. Allah chose him and guided him to the straight path.”

Surah al-An’am Ayah 86 and 87, Allah says, “We also gave guidance to Zacharias, John, Jesus and Elias, who were all pious people, and Ishmael, Elisha, Jonah and Lot whom We exalted over people. From their fathers, descendants and brothers, We chose certain people and guided them to the straight path.”

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.) are on the right path:

Surah al-An’am Ayah 153, Allah says, “This is My path and it is straight.

Surah al-Yaseen Ayah 1 to 4, Allah says, “(I swear by Yaseen and the Qur’an, the Book of Wisdom that you (Muhammad) are one of the apostles on the right path.” All the 123,999 messengers of Allah are guided towards right path, but the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) is on the right path!

Surah al-Nahl Ayah 76, Allah says, “And Allah sets forth a parable of two men, one of whom is dumb having authority over nothing, and he is burden upon his master, where ever he sends him, he brings no good. Is he then equal to him who enjoins justice and he (himself) is on the straight path?” According to the translation of the Glorious Qur’an by Mir Ahmed Ali, the person who enjoins justice and is on the straight path, is the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.)

Surah al-A’raf Ayah 16, Allah says, “Then Satan said, “Since you have let me wander off, I will certainly lay wait for (deceiving) them in Your straight straight path.”

After the “Tarke Aula” of Prophet Adam and both of them solicited repentance from Allah (s.w.t.), the Archangel Jibreel descended and advised them to use the tawassul of “Panjetan” and seek forgiveness by mentioning the names of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), Imam Ali (a.s.), Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Husayn (a.s.). Hence Allah (s.w.t.) accepted his prayer. (Allama Jalal addin Suyuti in Tafsir Durre Mansur)

THE GREAT STATURE OF THE NOBLE PROPHET (S.A.W.A.S.)

The Glorious Qur’an is one of the miracles of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) which contain numerous Ayahs praising him. A selection of Ayahs is reproduced below with short explanation:

Surah al-Ahzab Ayah 56, Allah says, “Verily, Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), O you who believe! Send you also blessings on him, and you salute him with submission.” It is a unique distinction of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) that the Creator joins the creation in praising His Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)!

In Surah al-Nahl Ayat 89, Allah says, “On the Day when We call a witness against every nation from their own people, We will call you, (Muhammad), as a witness to them all. We have sent you the Book which clarifies all matters. It is a Guide, a mercy, and glad news to the Muslims.” On the Day of Resurrection, every nation or community shall be called by a witness as a leader which is normally a messenger. The followers of 124,000 prophets will be called by their prophets and the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) shall be called as a witness over 124,000 prophets! Naturally they include the prophets Adam, Noah, Ibrahim, Musa and Ie’sa.

Surah al-An ‘am Ayat 162, Allah says, “(Muhammad), Say, “My prayer, sacrifice, life, and death are all for Allah, the Lord of the Universe.” The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) asserted that his belief and actions, life and death, everything for Allah. It may be inferred that his love and hatred is also for Allah; there is no personal or emotional aspect involved. Surah al-Najm Ayah 3-4, Allah says, “He does not speak out of his personal desires. It (whatever he says) is a revelation which has been revealed to him.” Consequently, the love and respect shown by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) towards Imam Ali (a.s.), Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Husayn (a.s.), is also directed by Allah and not due to normal human affection.

Surah alHashr Ayat 21, Allah says, “Had We sent down this Qur’an on a mountain, you would seen it humbled and rent asunder for fear of Allah.” Even some of the mountain would break by the forceful words of Qur’an, but there are some stone-hearted men who are not moved by it.

Surah al-Fath Ayat 8, Allah says, “Indeed, We have sent you as a witness (over the deeds), a bearer of glad news, and a Warner.” The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) by his knowledge may bring glad tidings to believers and they shall enjoy Divine Mercy and elevated status in Paradise and he may warn disbelievers and polytheists against torments in Hell because of polytheism and disbelieve.

Surah al-Kahf Ayat 110, Allah says, “(Muhammad), Say, I am only a mortal like you, but I have received revelation that there is only one Lord.” The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) did not say, “You are like me” Human race started after the creation of first man-Hazrat Adam, but according to a tradition, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “Allah first created my light (Noor)” (Ibne Abbas in Tabari, al-Khasais al-Kubra, in “Life of Muhammad by Saeed Akhter Rizvi)

Surah al-Anbiya Ayat 107, Allah says, “(Muhammad), We have sent you for no other reason but to be mercy to the Universe" We do not know the extent of Universe but wherever Allah’s Lordship reaches, Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)’s mercy also reaches there, as stated in  Surah al-Fatiha Ayah 1, Allah says, “All Praise belong to Allah, the Lord of the Universe”

Surah al-Isra Ayah 1, Allah says, “Glory be to Him Who took His servant by night from Masjid al-Haraam to Masjid al-Aqsa the precincts of which We have blessed that We show him (some) of our signs. Verily, He is All-Hearing and All-Seeing.” The Mai’raj is a unique distinction afforded to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)

HAZRAT SAKINA, THE BELOVED DAUGHTER OF THE MASTER OF MARTYRS IMAM HUSAYN (A.S.)

Sayyida Sakina was born on 20 Rajab 56 A.H. in Madinah. She was the most beloved daughter of The King of Martyrs, Imam Husayn (a.s.) and she in turn loved her father and used to sleep on his chest. Imam Husayn (a.s.) used to say: “A house without Sayyida Sakina would not be worth living in!” She loved all her brothers and sisters specially her younger brother Ali al-Asghar who was about six months old in Karbala. Moreover, she had a special relationship with her uncle, Abbas ibn Ali (a.s.) and he also loved his niece more than his own children.

She was very religious, enjoyed reading the Glorious Qur’an, would pray salat (namaaz) regularly and was always dressed-up in Islamic attire including head-cover. She was 5 years old in Karbala.

In Karbala, after 7 Muharram, Yazid (l.a.)’s army did not allow the water inside Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s camp. Sayyida Sakina shared whatever water was left with other children. As the days passed, the desert heat made the children uncomfortable without water. On the Day of Ashura, when all the companions and the family members of Hashmi youths had attained martyrdom, Hazrat Abbas ibn Ali (a.s.), the Commander of the Imam (a.s.)’s band of warriors, sought permission for Jihad. Imam Husayn (a.s.) refused to grant permission saying that he was the Commander of Imam (a.s.)’s army. In the meantime, Sayyida Sakina, along with some 42 children, brought a dry water-bag (mashk) and Imam Husayn (a.s.) reluctantly permitted Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) only to get some water. Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) courageously fought his way and landed his horse in the River Euphrates. Neither he nor his faithful horse drank a drop of water. He filled the water-bag with water and was galloping towards the camp when the treacherous enemy cut-off both of his hands from behind, but he still held tight the water-bag in his teeth, but the arrows of the enemy pierced the water-bag and the water flowed away. Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) attained martyrdom. After that time, she never asked for water anymore!

The famous Marsiah writer, Mir Anees had described the last meeting between Imam Husayn (a.s.) and Sayyida Sakina. The expert Mir Anees had painted a grim picture of this painful departure in many Marsiyas. A couplet is mentioned here; “Neend Aeygi Jab Apki Bu Paungi Baba * Main Raat Ko Maqtal Mein Chali Aungi Baba.” “I can sleep only when I am near you * At night I will come to you in the battlefield.” After the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (a.s.), the accursed Shimer slapped Sayyida Sakina, forcibly snatched her ear-rings tearing her ear lobes. The barbaric Yazid (l.a.)’s army looted the sacred household of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and set the camps on fire. The sacred ladies were deprived of their head covers, the children ran out of the burning camps. Sayyida Sakina’s clothes also caught fire, and when one of the reporters tried to extinguish the flames, she warned the man not to touch her as she was the member of the sacred Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). She was running in the battlefield crying: “Father! O Father, where are you?” As the butchers of Karbala, had already severed the pious heads of the martyrs, the bodies in the battle field were unrecognizable.

As night fell, the “Sham-e-Ghareeban” became sorrowful and painful. The Sani-e-Zahra, Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) took charge of the caravan and along with her sister, Umme Kulsoom (s.a.), they started counting the children and could not find Sayyida Sakina. They went in the battle-field and searched her and at last found her sleeping on the trampled chest of Imam Husayn (a.s.). She woke her up and Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) inquired as to how she recognized her father? Sayyida Sakina replied: “I was running around in the battle-field and calling my father, when a voice came from this trampled body calling me towards him” The widow of Hazrat Hurr, the deflected commander of Yazid (l.a.) army, brought some water and food into AhlulBayt’s burnt down camp site, Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) gave some water to Sayyida Sakina. She inquired why water was given to her first? Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) replied that she was the youngest. She took the water towards the battle field for her martyred six months old baby brother, Hazrat Ali al-Asghar, who was the youngest in the family!

The children at Karbala were in no way connected to the “allegiance” to Yazid (l.a.). In any humane and civilized Muslim society, the survivors of this catastrophic carnage are pacified and offered kind words of consolations. In the tragedy of Karbala, the so-called Muslims did not stay even at the level of humanity! It was the height of barbarism and butchery, un-parallel in human history.

On the 11 Muharram, the daughters of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) were made captive, along with other females, their hands were fastened behind their backs and made to sit on the camels without seats and routed through the battlefield, where the bodies of their loved ones were scattered all over the battle-field. Imagine the sorrow and grief of the women who saw their loved-ones un-buried (against the dictates of Islamic customs). The caravan proceeded towards Kufa. In Kufa, the markets were decorated in celebration of the massacre at Karbala and the procession of Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s)’s captive family! Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) was made to go through the bazars without head-cover while her mother, Lady of Paradise, Sayyida Fatimah Zahra (s.a.)’s funeral was taken out at night and not seen by any one! On the way from Kufa to Damascus, at one point, Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s head will not move forward. On inquiry it was found that Sayyida Sakina had fallen from the camel and Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) walked back and saw that she was sitting in the lap of a sacred lady in black attire concealing her identity. When Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) tried to thank her, she disclosed her identity; she was the Lady of Paradise, Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) who was all along with the Holy Caravan from Madinah.

The oppressive armed men, to cause pain and misery, hurriedly completed the journey in two days, which normally takes sixteen days!

 In Demascs, the sacred members of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) were imprisoned in a prison without roof when the scorching sun light fell on them while they were exposed to the chill at night!

While in the court of Yazid (l.a.), he was desecrating Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s head by hitting his lips and teeth with a cane. At one time, he wanted to test Sayyida Sakina’s love for her father. He (l.a.) challenged Sayyida Sakina to call her father’s head to come to her lap. She responded and raised her little hands and called her father to come to her. Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s head rose from the big plate and flew in to the waiting arms of Sayyida Sakina.

Sayyida Sakina used to sit at the gate of the prison and witness that birds were returning to their nests in the evening. She would ask her aunt Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) as to where those birds were going, she would reply that they were going to their homes. Sayyida Sakina would ask her aunt as to when they were going back to Madinah? Unfortunately, it was not destined that she will ever return to Madinah!

In the prison, one night, she woke up from her sleep and cried continuously. The family members tried their best to pacify and console her. She said: “O dear aunt, where is my father? A few minutes ago, I was with my father and he kissed me and said that “my dear Sakina you will soon be with me” But where is my father now?” When Sayyida Sakina described her dream, all the sacred ladies started to cry and when this noise reached Yazid (l.a.)’s quarters, he sent the severed head of Imam Husayn (a.s.) to the prison. As soon as she received her father’s head, she held it tight to herself and cried even more and said to her father: “Who cutoff my father’s head? Who martyred my father? Why we are kept as captives?” With these words of sorrow, she suddenly became quiet. Everyone thought that she might have slept again, but alas! Sayyida Sakina had gone into the eternal sleep. Imam Sajjad (a.s.) dug a grave in the prison and buried her little sister in her torn clothes as it was completely attached to her flesh after the burning of the camps on Ashura!

May Allah curse the oppressors of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.).

            Sources: Islamicoccasions.com, WIKIPEDIA, WIKIVISUALLY, Infogalactic.com

THE SUPERIORITY OF IMAM ALI (A.S.)

The Commander of the Faithful, Lion of Allah, Nafse Rasool, Conqueror of the Fort of Khyber, Champion of the poor, the Unique Provider of Justice, the spouse of the Chief of the Women of the World and the Lady of Paradise, father of the Chiefs of the Youth in Paradise, Imam Ali (a.s.) is the Unique Creation of Allah, born in the House of Allah (Ka’ba) and martyred in the Mosque of Kufa (Iraq). He is the manifestation of miraculous and Unique qualities!

It is narrated in authentic books of traditions that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “Looking at the face of (Imam) Ali (a.s.) is Ibadah. Speaking/listening about (Imam) Ali is Ibadah. Keeping the love of (Imam) Ali (a.s.) in your heart is Ibadah.” It is narrated by Hazrat A’isha that once the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) was ill and her father caliph Abu Bakr visited him and kept looking at Imam Ali (a.s.). She inquired the reason for constantly looking at the face of Imam Ali (a.s.), he quoted the tradition of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). For the future generations, the tradition offers the opportunity of speaking or listening about Imam Ali (a.s.) which is Ibadah. During the hostile environment, the tradition encourages Muslims to keep the fire of love for Imam Ali (a.s.) alive in their hearts! (Tibrani, Mustadrak of Hakim, Tareeq Ibn Asakir)

Allah says in Surah al-Dhariyat Ayat 56, “I have created Jinn and human beings only to worship (Ibadah) Me.”

It means by looking at Ali, speaking/listening about Ali and loving Ali at heart, we can identify or comprehend the Creator that when His creation is like this, how unimaginable Allah is.

One of the senior Sunnis traditionist Ibne Aseer stated in his book, al-Nehaya, that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) did not say that looking at Imam Ali (a.s.) is Ibadah. When (Imam) Ali would come out of his house, people who would look at him would say “La Ilaha Illallah, how Karim is this young man, some one else would say La Ilaha Illallah, how brave this young man is, yet others would say La Ilaha Illallah, how knowledgeable this young man is, yet others would say, La Ilaha Illallah, how generous this young man is.”

Normally, in the Glorious Qur’an, when plural is used, ending in Arabic word “Na” like “Khalaq’na” means “We created”; Allah’s orders are carried out by others on His behalf. Like in Surah al-Tahrim Ayat 12, “The story of Mariyam, daughter of Imran, who protected her privacy and into whose womb We breathed Our spirit.” The Archangel Jibreel came to Lady Mariyam as stated in Surah Mariyam Ayah 17 to 19, “We sent Our Spirit to her, who stood before her in the shape of a well-informed human being. Mariyam said, “Would that the Beneficent would protect me from you. Leave me alone if you are a God-fearing person. He said, I am the Messenger of your Lord. I have come to give you a purified son.”

When Allah wants to show His Power, He uses singular verb as in Surah Sa’d Ayah 72, “When I give it (Adam) proper shape and blow My spirit (Nafaqtu Min Ruhi) into it, bow down in prostration (in his honor).”

After Prophet Ibrahim broke away the idols, he was to be burned alive in the mammoth fire. While still in the air, Jibreel came to him and asked if he needed any help to which Ibrahim replied he did not need any help from him, but his Creator knows about it and Jibreel went away. Surah al-Anbiya Ayat 69, “We said (Qulna) to the fire, “Be cool and peaceful (with Ibrahim)”. According to the rule, who was the “resource or agent” that performed the work for Allah?

An Egyptian writer Zayn al-Abidin Barzandi and the famous Sunni writer Abdul Haque Muhaddis Dehlavi in his book “Shavahid al-Nubuwwah” had stated, “It is narrated that the reason why the mammoth fire had turned into garden was the fact that the light of Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and Imam Ali (a.s.) was in his loins”!

               Source: The Glorious Qur’an and Speech of Allama Talib Jauhari

THE FOURTH INFALLIBLE IMAM IN ISLAM, ALI ZAYN AL-ABIDIN (A.S.)

Imam Ali, Zayn-al-Abidin, was the son of the King of the Martyrs, Imam Husayn (a.s.). His mother was Shaher Banu, daughter of the last Persian king, Yazd Jurd. He was born in Madinah on 5^th Shaban 38 A.H. He was entrusted with the Divine Imamate on the Day of Ashura 61 A.H. After the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (a.s.) in Karbala, he (himself in chains) led the imprisoned bare-headed women of Ahlul Bayt and children from Karbala to Kufa and then to Damascus. This was the most painful and humiliating journey.

When Yazid tried to talk in an insulting manner, he bravely spoke the truth whereupon Yazid threatened to kill him but Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) intervened. During this journey, he delivered sermons introducing himself and the Ahlul Bayt and explained the objective of their sacrifices which was to save Islam. When the news of Tragedy of Karbala spread far and wide and signs of revolt were apparent, Yazid released the Ahlul Bayt. Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) asked for a house to mourn the martyrs of Karbala. This was the first assembly of mourning (Majlis) for the martyrs. Imam Zayn-al-Abidin and the Ahlul Bayt returned to Madinah on route to Karbala. In the prison in Damascus, his little sister, Sakina, died and the Imam Sajjad had to bury her in her clothes because due to hitting of Shimr the cursed, the blood was dried up and stuck to her body!

The Imam (a.s..) led a quiet life after his return to Madinah. Because of the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (a.s.), the Muslim Ummah realized the gravity of the sin and crime of Yazid and the people rose against his tyrannical rule. Yazid’s army ruthlessly suppressed the revolt in Madinah. They turned the Sacred Mosque of the Prophet into a stable for horses, killed hundreds of innocent Muslims including many companions of the Noble Messenger, and destroyed the chastity of numerous females on the clear instructions of Yazid. These beasts plundered Madinah for three days.

 The Imam lived 35 years after the tragedy of Karbala. Because of the unfavorable circumstances, the Imam started writing supplications, which demonstrates the immense knowledge of the progeny of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). His supplications were collected in the famous book, “Saheefa-e-Sajjadia”. In eloquence, the book is next to his grandfather, Imam Ali (a.s.)’ “Nahjul Balagha”.

Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) also compiled a treatise known as “Risalat-ul-Huqooq” or a Treatise of Rights, which contains the rights of human beings, including the rights of every part of the human body. If one compares this book with the United Nation’s “Charter of Human Rights”, it appears to have been thoroughly influenced by this Treatise. 

Like other Infallible Imams, he loved and cared for the poor. The Imam would carry bags of bread on his back at night, without disclosing his identity, would go around the streets of Madinah and distribute it among the needy. Even when he gave alms to the poor, he would cover his face not to embarrass the recipient!

Hisham bin Abdul Malik, the heir of the caliph, was visiting Makkah for Hajj and was sitting in a chair waiting to kiss the Black Stone of Ka’ba, he saw that a young man came towards the Black Stone and the crowd automatically separated to give way to him. The man gracefully came and kissed the Black Stone and left. He knew who the man was. It was Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) but to overcome his embarrassment, he enquired from his companions about the identity of the young man. The famous poet of Arabia, Farazdaq, compiled a poetry extempore praising the Imam. Some of the stanzas of his poem read as, “He is the one whom the whole Makkah knows.  Every stone in Ka’ba knows him. He is the son of Fatima and Ali and the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.).” Hisham became furious, stopped the financial assistance and imprisoned him. When Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) heard about it, he sent some money to Farazdaq who said that he composed that poetry for the love of Allah and did not want any worldly compensation, but the imam insisted him to accept the gift.

It is said that after Karbala, the Imam wept and cried for a long time and when someone asked as to how long he was going to cry and said, “Martyrdom was the grace and inheritance of Ahlul Bayt”, but humiliation was not the inheritance of Ahlul Bayt!

The Imam through his supplications had spread the teachings of Islam. Abu Hamza al Thamali was one of his companions. The Imam had taught him a supplication known as “Duae Abu Hamza Thamali”. Abu Makhnuf was another companion who was instructed by Imam Mohammad al-Baqir (a.s.) to write the story of Karbala in a narrative form which he complied. It became a part of the authentic account of the tragedy of Karbala and became a source of majalis all over the Muslim world.

Walid bin Abdul Malik, the Umayyad monarch realized that Imam’s teachings were spreading all over the Arabia and influencing the Muslims, hence he poisoned the Imam and he was martyred on 25^th of Muharrum 95 A.H. 

Once a person asked Imam Zain-al-Abidin (A.S.), “What is the criterion for the acceptance of the prayers? The Imam replied, “Acknowledging our Wilayah and dissociating from our enemies.”

The reason why the Imam was given the title of “Zayn-al-Abidin” was that one night the Imam was praying and Shaitaan manifested himself as a huge serpent and tried to distract him. When the Imam did not take notice of him, he bites the toe of the Imam (ads.) causing great pain, but the Imam remained oblivious of him, and carried on with his prayers. After completing his prayers, the Imam realized that it was Shaitaan, he cursed him away saying, “O’ Accursed! Go away” and once again engaged himself in the worship. It was at that moment that an angel called three times: “You are the embellishment of the worshippers.” Or “Zayn-al-Abidin”

Among the sayings of Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) are, “The attributes of a believer are: piety in private, donating charity at the time of need, patience when misfortune comes, tolerance at the time of anger, and truthfulness when there is fear.”

Once, the young Imam fell sick. His father, Imam Husayn (a.s.) inquired about his health and asked if he had any wish. The Imam replied, “My only wish is that may Allah count me among those who do not have any wish against His “Divine Decree and Divine Fate” or “Qaza-o-Qadr” The Imam (a.s.) was very pleased with the answer.

The Imam’s face would turn yellow while preparing for wudu and he would tremble performing prayers out of fear of Allah. Once, Imam was praying and young Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) fell in a well in the house and his mother was upset and called the Imam to rescue the boy. The Imam peacefully completed his prayer and after finishing it, he went near the well and put his hand in the well and pulled out Imam Baqir (a.s.) completely unharmed and without his clothes being wet.

After his return from Karbala, his uncle Mohammad-e-Hanafiyya, asked the Imam to give him the sacred assets of Imamate as he was then the elder in the family. The Imam first advised him that the imamate is a Divine responsibility regardless of age, and when he disagreed, he requested his uncle to accompany him to the Holy Ka’ba and let the Black Stone decide. Both offered salaam to the Black Stone, but his salaam was replied by the Black Stone and further said, “Imamate is the right of Zayn-al-Abidin”

At the time of the destruction of Madinah, Marwan, who was an arch enemy of Ahlul Bayt, came to the Imam for shelter of his family. The Imam gladly provided the requested shelter!

Similarly, Haseen Ibne Numair, one of the murderers in Karbala, requested to buy food grains from the Imam. He thought that the Imam did not recognize him, but the Imam told him that he had recognized him and said that he did not want to sell it but can give him free!

One of his Shias from Balakh used to come for Hajj and visit the Imam (a.s.) in Madinah. Once his wife told him, “You always take gifts for your Imam but has your Imam ever given you anything?” Next year when he visited the Imam, the Imam asked him to join him for food. After finishing the food, the Imam wanted to pour water on his hands to wash. When the pot was full of polluted water, the Imam asked him, “What is it?” He said “water”. The Imam said, “Look again carefully” When he looked carefully he saw the red gems instead of water. The Imam told him to take it and give it to his wife.

Omer Ibne Abdul Aziz was the only exception in the corrupt Umayyad Dynasty. When he was the Governor of Hejaz, one of the walls of Prophet’s Shrine fell. After the repair, he invited Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) to perform the opening ceremony of the mosque. He was the one who returned the Gardens of Fadak to Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.)’s progeny and ordered to stop the sinful tradition of cursing Imam Ali from the mosques as started by Moa’via bin Abu Sufiyan.

          Source: Behar-ul-Anwar by Allama Baqir Majlisi

MASTER OF MARTYRS, IMAM HUSAYN (A.S.)'S MIGRATION FROM MAKKAH TO KARBALA

In my earlier article titled “King of Martyrs Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s Migration from Madinah to Makkah”. The present article covers his (a.s.) migration to Karbala.

Following into the foot-steps of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and his illustrious father, Imam Ali (a.s.) encompassing moral, ethical and spiritual standards, Imam Husayn (a.s.) avoided direct conflict and bloodshed. All his actions were open and transparent free of deceit. The Makkans received him (a.s.) with love and reverence as they remembered the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) showed enormous love to his grandsons (a.s.). More and more Muslims arriving for the impending Hajj were gathering around him. He continued to preach piety according to Islam.

While still in Madinah, he had received more than 12,000 letters from the Muslims of Kufa who were disgusted with the oppressive rule of Umayyads and ignorance of the governors in religious matters. Letters signed by Shibath bin Riby, Hajjaj bin Abjur, Yazid bin Harith, Urwa bin Qeis etc. laid emphasis on rescuing the oppressed and render justice. Imam Husayn (a.s.) replied to them saying, “…..I understood your unanimous declaration that you have no Imam for your guidance. I am sending my cousin Muslim son of Aqeel. If he writes to me that most of you are desirous of following the right path and supporting the truth, and if the wise and virtuous ones agree with you, then I shall be among you, God willing. I should enlighten your minds with the fact that an Imam or true guide is the one who acts according to the Divine percepts, keeps himself steady on the path of justice and righteousness, and binds himself with the laws laid down by God and His Prophet.”

At Mina, Imam Husayn (a.s.) delivered a historical sermon surveying the prevalent situation of the Ummah. Extracts from his long sermon are: “You are fully aware of the tyranny of Mu’awiya and Yazid. I ask you to bear witness to what I say, write it down, remember and propagate my message to everyone in your tribe, village, town and city. I am doing this because I apprehend that the truth will be buried, and falsehood will be made to prevail over the truth. But God has promised to protect His Light, though the infidels may dislike it.” After Glorifying Allah and reciting numerous Qur’anic verses which were revealed about the “Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)” Imam Husayn (a.s.) inquired from the huge crowd about the truth of his questions and the crowd spontaneously confirmed.

He asked, “Is not Muhammad Messenger of Allah?” Crowd, “Certainly”. He asked, “Is not Fatima the only child of the Prophet and that she is the Chief of the women in Paradise? Crowd, “Indeed it is as you say.” He asked, “Is not Ali cousin and the deputy of the Prophet? Have you not heard the Prophet say, when he created a bond of brotherhood between his followers that Ali was a brother to him, like Aron (Harun) was to Moses (Musa)? The people said, “We bears witness that what you say is true.” He asked, “Am I not the son of Ali and Fatima?” They replied, “Indeed you are so.” He asked, “Have you not heard the Prophet say that I and my brother Hasan are the masters of the youth in Paradise?” People replied, “We are witnesses to what you have said.” He asked, “Is it not true that when the Prophet constructed the mosque, he had all the doors closed except the one leading to the house of Ali and Fatima, and when Umar wanted to open a chink in the wall of his house so that he could peep into the mosque, the Prophet sternly forbid it?” They replied, “It was so.” He asked, “Is it not true that on the Day of Mubahaila with the Christians, the Prophet took my mother Fatima to represent women, my father Ali to represent men and I and my brother Hasan to represent children of the Prophet? This Prophet did in accordance with what was revealed to him by God? They said, “Indeed, it is true.” He asked, “Have you not the Prophet say that Fatima, Ali, Hasan and Husayn are from me and I am from them and that they are my Ahlul Bayt? Have you not heard the Prophet say that ‘one who loves my Ahlul Bayt loves me and one who loves me loves Allah, and he who opposes my Ahlul Bayt opposes me and he who opposes me opposes Allah? The people said, “We affirm the truthfulness of what you said.” The Imam said, “I make it obligatory on all of you gathered here to repeat what you all heard from me now, to your kith and kin, friends and acquaintances, in villages, towns and cities, and where ever you find two believers gathered at one place.”

On 20^th Dhul Quadah, Imam Husayn (a.s.) received a letter from Hazrat Muslim stating that more than one a lakh of Muslims in Kufa had sworn fealty to him and that the Imam may proceed to Kufa. On hearing the reports of Hazrat Muslim’s popularity, Yazid ordered to kill Hazrat Muslim along with other influential leaders of Kufa and sent a contingent headed by Amr bin Sa’eed bin A’s with strict instruction to kill Imam Husayn (a.s.) in the precints of the Holy Ka’ba. On learning this and to protect the sanctity Allah’s House, Imam Husayn (a.s.) performed Umra and left Makkah.

               Source: (al-Islam.org) The Hidden Truth About Karbala by A.K.Ahmed

THE GRAND EID OF MUBAHELAH

In the early days of Islam, Najran was a big center of learning whose inhabitants were idol-worshipers. Subsequently, they accepted Christianity as their religion. Najran is in the modern Saudi Arabia, south of Jeddah. The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had sent letters to the heads of different countries inviting them to Islam. One such letter was also sent to the bishop of Najran.

It read as follows:

In the name of the God of Ibrahim, Is’haaq and Yaqoob. This letter is from Muhammad, the Prophet and Messenger of Allah to the Bishop of Najran.

Praise be to the God of Ibrahim, Is’haaq, and Yaqoob. I invite you to worship Allah instead of His servants. I invite you to come out of the rule of servants of Allah and into the rule of Allah Himself.

It is also stated that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) included the following Ayah of the Glorious Qur’an:

“Say, (O’Muhammad) O People of the Book (Bible), come to an agreement between us and you; that we shall worship none but Allah and that we shall claim no partner to Him, and that none of us shall take others for Lords besides Allah” And if they turn away, then say, “Bear witness that we are Muslims ( who have surrendered to Allah).” (3:64)

This was the event of 10 A.H. Sixty learned priests headed by their chief monk priest, Abdul Masih, came to Madinah and went straight to meet the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) wearing golden ornaments and dressed in silken clothes. He (s.a.w.a.s.) did not like their attire and turned his face away from them. They inquired from a few influential Companions for the reason, but they did not know the state of his (s.a.w.a.s.)’s mind. The Commander of the faithful, Maula Mushkil-Kusha, Imam Ali (a.s.) came to their rescue and advised them to dress in simple clothes. When they returned wearing simple clothes, the Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) warmly welcomed them. It may be inferred that appearances and attires show the thinking of the person. They wanted to show pride and high status.

 Following conversation followed:

The Prophet: I invite you to the belief of Unity of Allah (Tauheed) and the worship of one God and submission to His will. (Then he recited the above-mentioned Ayah)

Abdul Masih: If Islam means faith in one God of the universe, we already believe in Him and follow His commands.

The Prophet: Islam has a few other signs and some of your actions show that you have not accepted true Islam. How do you claim worship of one God when you worship the cross and do not abstain from eating pork and believe that God has a son?

Abdul Masih: Certainly he (I’sa (a.s.)) was the son of God because his mother Mary [Mariyam (s.a.)] had given birth to him without marrying anyone in the world. Therefore, obviously his father is the God of this universe. And, because he used to bring the dead back to life, cure the sick and create birds from clay and make them fly. It shows that he is God.

The Prophet: No, he was the servant and creature of God, and placed in the womb of his mother Mariyam (s.a.). All his power and strength were granted to him by God.

At this time, Archangel Jibra’eel brought the following Ayah 59 of Surah Ale Imran:

“Surely, the example of I’sa to Allah is like that of Adam; He created him from dust and then said to him, “Be” and he was”

It means that if Isa (a.s.) could be called the son of God because he was born without father, then Adam (a.s.) deserves this title more because he was born without a father and a mother. The priests could not reply to this argument and continued to argue out of obstinacy.

Then the following Ayah 61 of Surah Ale Imran was revealed:

              “And whoever argue with you in this matter after what has come to you of knowledge then say, come, let us call our sons and your sons, and our women and your women, ourselves and yourselves, then let us humbly pray (to our Lord) and invoke the curse of Allah upon the liars” 

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) produced this verse before the priests and challenged for “Mubahelah”. The priests consulted each other and accepted the challenge. It was agreed that the contest would take place the next day in the open desert outside Madinah. On 24^th Zilhajj, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) came out for Mubahelah. He was holding Imam Husayn (a.s.) in his arms and held Imam Hasan (a.s.) by his hand; Lady of Paradise Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) was behind him, while the Lion of Allah, Imam Ali (a.s.) was behind her. The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said to them, “When I pray for curse of Allah, you should say Ameen”.

In compliance of the Ayah of Mubahela, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) brought Imam Hasan and Imam Husayn (a.s.) as his “SONS”, Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) in place of “WOMEN” while he could have brought three or more women, and Imam Ali (a.s.) as his “SELF “while the Ayah had the accommodation for three.

The priests, by seeing these shining faces emitting light, were spellbound. Their hearts trembled, and they began to shake on seeing the light radiating from the faces of The Sacred Panjetan (a.s.).

Their leader asked: “who are these persons who have come with Muhammad “A man told their names and their relationship with the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). He could no longer hold his patience and cried out:

“By God, I am seeing such faces that if they were to pray to God to move the mountain, God Almighty would move the mountain for them. O You People of Najran, if you contest with Muhammad in this prayer of invoking curses on the liars, then I warn you that all of you will be destroyed and not a single soul will remain on this earth. I feel that it would be better to surrender to them and obey them”

After the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) heard these words, he later remarked: “By God, had the Christians of Najran contested with us, they would have been transformed into monkeys and swine. Fire would have rained over them”  

It is a historic event of a unique triumph of Islam. This event unquestionably established the truth about Islam and the spiritual purity of the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). It proved beyond doubt as to who were the members of The House of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and their “unquestionable Truthfulness!”

There is a point to be remembered here that in Arabic language the plural tense is used for more than three persons. Allah had provided the place for three or more than three persons in the categories of “SONS”, “WOMEN”, and “SELVES”. But the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had to decide as to who were the persons who were “TRUTHFUL” and never lied in their life time, because Mubahelah would bring up Allah’s wrath on the “LIARS”. It was a crucial test for Islam. Hence, he picked-up Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Husayn (a.s.); only two persons for the place in “SONS”. While in the place of “WOMEN”, he picked-up only his daughter, The Lady of Paradise, Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.). Similarly, in the place of “SELVES”, he picked up only The Conqueror of Khyber, Imam Ali (a.s.).

After the sad demise of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), when Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) claimed her gifted property of Fadak, which was given to her by her father, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), the Caliph did not accept her testimony, that of Imam Ali (a.s.) nor Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Husayn (a.s.). These were the same Panjetan, whose Truthfulness was accepted by Allah on the eve of Mubahelah!

THE CORONATION OF THE NAFSE RASOOL, IMAM ALI (A.S.)

Shia Muslims celebrate 5 Eid: Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha, Eid-e-Mubahela, Eid-e-Ghadeer, Wedding of Lady of Paradise Hazrat Fatima Zahra (s.a.) and the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.).

Apart from these, the birth days of Chahardah Masoomeen are days of rejoicings and celebrations hence treated as Eid.

On the 17^th day of Dhul-Hijjah 10 A.H. the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s) was returning along with over 120,000 Muslims after performing last Hajj, when Archangel Jibril descended on earth and brought Ayah 67 of Sura al-Mai’dah , “O Apostle, deliver what has been sent down to you from your Lord, and if you don’t do it, you have not delivered His message (at all); and Allah will protect you from the people.” By this time, every command of Allah has been delivered to Muslims and nothing was added after this day. A question arises in every mind as to why Allah was threatening His Messenger that if he did not comply with the directive it would liquidate efforts of his whole life. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) died about 70 days after the event of Ghadeer. The last sentence indicates that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) was apprehensive of the reaction of his people in delivering that message but Allah informed him not to worry, for He will protect His Messenger from the people!

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) spent about 5 hours at Ghadeer-e-Khumm in the scorching heat of Arabian Desert. He recited about 100 Ayahs of the Glorious Qur’an for about 3 hours. The Messenger declared “It seems the time has approached when I shall be called away (by Allah) and I shall answer that call. I am leaving for you two precious things (thaqalayn) and if you adhere to them both, you will never go astray after me. They are the Book of Allah and my Progeny that is my Ahlul Bayt. The two shall never separate from each other until they come to me by the Pool of Kauthar (in Paradise)” Then the Messenger continued “Do I not have more right over the believers than what they have over themselves.” People cried and answered “Yes, O Messenger of Allah” Then followed the key sentence denoting the clear designation of Imam Ali (a.s.) as the Leader of Muslim ummah. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) held up the hand of Imam Ali (a.s.) and said “For whoever, I am his Leader (Maula), Ali is his Leader (Maula). The Prophet continued “O’Allah, love those who love him and be hostile to those who are hostile to him.”

Immediately after the Prophet finished his speech, the following Ayah was revealed, Surah Al-Ma’idah Ayah 3 “Today, I have perfected your religion, completed My favors to you, and have chosen Islam as your religion”. This Ayah clearly indicates that Islam, without clearing up matter of leadership after the Messenger, was not complete, and completion of religion was achieved by the appointment of the Messenger’s successor.

As soon as the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) completed his sermon, Hassan Bin Thabit, the companion and poet of the Messenger of Islam, asked for his permission to compose a few verses of poetry for the newly crowned successor Imam Ali (a.s.) for the audience. The Prophet said “Say, with the blessings of Allah”. Hassan stood up and said “O People of Quraysh, I follow with my words what preceded and witnessed by the Messenger of Allah. He then composed the following verses extempore:

            He calls them on the Day of Ghadeer, their Prophet

            In Khumm so hear (and heed) the Messenger’s call

            He said “Who is your Guide and Leader?

            They said, and there was no apparent blindness clearly:

            “Your God, our Guide, and you are our leader

            And you won’t find from among us, in this, any disobedient”

            He said to him “Stand up O Ali, for I am

            Pleased to announce you Imam and Guide after me

            So, whoever I am his leader (Maula), then this is his leader(Maula),

            So be to him supporters in truth and followers”

            Then he prayed “Allah! Be a friend and Guide to his follower

            And be, to the one who is Ali’s enemy, an enemy”

After his speech, The Messenger of Allah asked everyone to give the oath of allegiance to Imam Ali (a.s.) and congratulate him. Among those who did so was Umar bin al-Khattab, who said “Well done, Ibne Abi Talib! Today you became the Leader (Maula), of all believing men and women.”

Allah ordered His Prophet to inform the people of this designation at a time of mammoth congregation so that all become the witnesses and narrators of the tradition, while they exceeded a hundred twenty thousand. Narrated by Zayd bin Arqam: Abu al-Tufayl said “I heard from the Messenger of Allah and there was no one there except that he saw him with his eyes and heard him with his ears”

Some Sunni commentators report that when the first three Ayahs of Surah al-Maa’rij were revealed, a man challenged the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) when he reached Madinah as detailed below:

“On the day of Ghadeer, the Prophet summoned the people towards Ali and said “Ali is the mawla of whom I am the mawla.” The news spread quickly all over the urban and rural areas. When Harith Ibne Nauman al-Fahri came to know of it, he rode his she-camel and came to Madinah and went to the Messenger of Allah and said to him “You commanded us to testify that there is no deity but Allah and that you are the Messenger of Allah. We obeyed you. You ordered us to pray five times a day and we obeyed. You ordered us to observe fasts during month of Ramadan and we obeyed. Then you commanded us to offer pilgrimage to Makkah and we obeyed. You are not satisfied with all this and you raised your cousin by hand and imposed upon us as our master as saying, ‘Ali is the mawla of whom I am the mawla.’ Is this imposition from Allah or you?”

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said “By Allah, who is the only deity! This is from Allah, the Mighty and the Glorious” On hearing this, Harith turned back and proceeded towards his she-camel saying “O Allah! If what Muhammad said is correct then fling on us a stone from sky and subject us to severe pain and torture” He had not reached his she-camel when Allah, who is above all defects, flung at him a stone which struck him on his head, penetrated his body, and passed out through his body and left him dead. It was on this occasion that Allah, the Exalted sent the following verse “A questioner questioned about the punishment to fall. For the disbelievers, there is nothing to avert it, from Allah, the Lord of the Ascent.” (Surah al-Maa’rij Ayahs 1-3)

Some of the opponents of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) tried to belittle the occasion by interpreting that “Maula” means friend!

In the scorching heat of the desert, making a pulpit of the camel seats, reciting more than 100 Ayahs of the Glorious Qur’an, giving sermon for 5 hours in the light of the Divine threat that if he (the Messenger) did not deliver the Message of Allah to Muslims as if he did not deliver any message and that in consequence of delivering the Message, Allah will protect the Messenger. All the pains and effort were taken by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) to tell the Muslims that Ali is their friend! It is plain and simple logic!

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur’an

Al-Ghadeer by Allama Abdul Husayn Al-Amini Al-Najafi, WIKIPEDIA