BIRTH OF IMAM ALI (A.S.) INSIDE THE SACRED KA'BA

Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) was born in the year 600 A.D. on 13 Rajab 30th Year of Elephant in Makkah. His father was the Protector of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) and his mother was Sayyida Fatima Bint Asad (s.a.). Her grandfather was Hazrat Hashim (a.s.). She was a monotheist like all the ancestors of all the Prophets of Allah.

She went to the Sacred Ka’ba and while she was circumambulating, she felt the pains of delivery. She prayed to Allah: “O Allah! I believe in You, and in the Messengers and the Scripts You have sent. I believe in what my grandfather Ibrahim, who built the Ancient House (Ka’ba), believed in. So, for the sake of the Builder of this House, and for the sake of the child in my womb, who talks to me and who is my helper and friend, I implore You to make my labor easy. The child I am carrying is a sign of Your Greatness and Power.” (Al-Arbili, Kashf Al-Ghummah, volume 1 chapter on Imam Ali)

Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.) leaned against the wall of Ka’ba to rest. Miraculously, the wall cracked opened. Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.) entered and the wall closed behind her. Hazrat Abbas ibn Abdul Muttalib, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.)’s uncle witnessed this miracle. He and his companions rushed to the gate of the Sacred House, which was locked, and tried in vain to open it. Understanding that the Divinity was at work there, he and his companions ceased to interfere. The news of this miracle spread throughout Makkah like wild fire.

Imam Ali (a.s.) was born within the Ka’ba with his eyes closed and his body in humble prostration before the Almighty Allah. Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.) stayed in Ka’ba for three days and as the fourth day approached, she stepped out carrying her baby in her arms. She found the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) waiting to receive the new-born child in his anxious arms. Hence, the first face that little Imam Ali (a.s.) saw in this world was the smiling face of his cousin the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). Imam Ali (a.s.) said, “Assalaamu alaika ya Rasool Allah” Thus it is confirmed that he (a.s.) was a born Muslim. Imam Ali (a.s.)’s first food was the saliva of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) when he gave his tongue into the mouth of the baby. The Muslims use the phrase “Karramallahu Wajha” for Imam Ali (a.s.) meaning the one who never prostrated to idols!

No one has ever born or will ever be born inside the Sacred House of Allah. This unique distinction was reserved for Imam Ali (a.s.). Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.) had said about this special privilege Allah had granted to her and said: “Allah preferred me to all women before me. Assiyah (wife of the Pharaoh) performed the acts of worship in seclusion where Allah did not like to be worshiped except in case of necessity. Mary (s.a.), the daughter of Imran, shook the trunk of the Pam- tree and ripe dates fell upon her. I entered the House of Allah and ate fruits of Paradise, when I was about to leave the place, I heard the Divine call: O Fatima! Name your son Ali because he is high and his Lord Most High. I gave him a name derived from My Own Name. I cultured him the way I willed. I made known to him the intricacies of My Own Omniscience. He is the one to crush the idols in My House. He is the one to call the people to prayer from the roof of My House. He worships Me. Blessed are those who love him, and woe to those who are his enemies.”

His birth in Ka’ba had been reported both by Shi’i and Sunni scholars. To name a few as under:

Masoodi in Murroj-udh-Dhahab, Muhammad ibn Talha al-Shafei in Matalib-us-Saool, Hakim in Mustadrak, Al-Umair in Sharh Ainia, Halabi in Sira, Sibt ibn al-Jauzi in Tadhkira Khawasil Ummah, Ibne Sabbagh Maliki in Fusoolul Mohimma, Muhammad bin Yousuf Shafei in Kifayat al-Talib, Shablangi in Nurul Absar, Ibne Zahra in Ghiythul Ikhtisar.

Among the modern historians, Abbas Mahmood al-Akkad of Cairo (1970), Egypt, writes in his book Al-Abqarriyet al-Imam Ali that Ali ibne Abi Talib was born inside the Ka’ba.

Another contemporary historian, Mahmood Saeed al-Tantawi, of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affair, Arab Republic of Egypt writes: “May God have mercy upon Ali ibne Abi Talib. He was born in Ka’ba. He witnessed the rise of Islam; he witnessed the Dawah of Muhammad, and he was a witness of the Wahi (Revelation of Quran al-Majid). He immediately accepted Islam even though he was still a child, and he fought all his life so that the word of Allah would be supreme.”

Miraculous birth of Imam Ali has many important points to ponder:

Sayyida Fatima bint Asad did not enter the Holy Ka’ba through the door but Allah opened an unusual opening. When Prophet Isa was born, Lady Mariam was told to leave the place of worship and go outside. What was the sustenance of Sayyida Fatima bint Asad for three days? When she entered the Ka’ba, Hazrat Abbas, Hazrat Abu Talib tried to open the door but it will not open, why? On the fourth day, the wall of Ka’ba again opened to give passage to her and the Priceless baby. From the time of construction of Ka’ba, no one had ever been born inside the Sacred Ka’ba nor will ever be born till the Day of Judgment. Imam Ali (a.s.) did not open his eyes for three days while he was inside the Kaaba and opened only when the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) took him in his arms and saw his sacred face when opened his eyes. He (s.a.w.a.s.) placed his noble tongue in Imam Ali (a.s.)’s mouth.

Titles of Imam Ali (a.s.) are:

Babul Ilm-The Gateway of Knowledge

Haider-e-Karrar-The Charging Lion

Waliullah-The Friend of Allah

Mazhar al-Aja’ib- The Manifest of Wonders

Murtaza-The Chosen one of Allah

Imam al-Muttaqeen-The Guide of the Pious

Imamul Aulia-The Guide of the Saints

Asadullah al-Ghalib-The Triumphant Lion of Allah

Siddiq-e-Akbar-The Greatest Truthful

Nafse Rasul-The Soul of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)

Lisanullah- The Tongue of Allah

Yadullah-The Hand of Allah

Wajhullah-The Face of Allah

AbuTurab- The Father of the Soil

Farooq-e-Azam-The Greatest Distinguisher

Fath-e-Khaiber-The Conqueror of Khaiber

Abul Aimmah-The Father of Holy Imams

Sources used:

Imamreza Network, The birth of Ali Ibn Abi Talib by Sayyid Ali Asghar Razwy, WIKIPEDIA

THE ROLE OF INFANTS AND CHILDREN IN ISLAM

Allah (s.w.t.) sent 124,000 prophets and messengers to guide the humanity out of His Mercy. Every messenger preached the Unity of the Creator and directed their followers towards justice and equity in the individual and social life. They also warned about accountability for their deeds on the Day of Resurrection.

The Fir’aun wanted to avoid the birth of Prophet Musa as he was warned by the forecasters about the birth of a child who will terminate his rein, hence he ordered to kill thousands of children of Bani Israel, but Almighty Allah not only saved Prophet Musa but raised him in Fir’aun’s own house.

When Prophet Yusuf was being harassed by Zuleika, the wife of the king of Egypt, he rushed towards the door to free himself from her clutches when the door opened, and the king was standing. She quickly released his shirt and tried to blame Yusuf for sexually assaulting her. In the nearby cradle, an infant miraculously spoke to the king and said, “If his shirt is torn from the front, she has spoken the truth and he is lying, but if his shirt is torn from behind, she is lying, and he is speaking the truth.” (12:26-27) The truth of an infallible is always testified by an innocent or infallible.

Similarly, when Hazrat Maryam was pregnant with Prophet Isa’ without a father, people tried to blame her. She kept silence as advised by Allah in Surah Maryam Ayah 26, “Eat, drink and rejoice. Should you see a person going by, tell him that on this day you have promised the Magnificent to fast and never talk to any human being.” Surah Maryam Ayah 29 to 33, “She pointed to the baby (and referred them to him for their answer). They said, “How can we talk to a baby in the cradle. He (Prophet Isa’) said, “I am the servant of Allah. He has given me the Book (Bible) and has appointed me a Prophet. He has blessed me (made benevolent) no matter where I dwell, commanded me to worship Him and pay the religious tax for as long as I live. He has commanded me to be good to my mother and did not make me an arrogant, rebellious person. I was born with peace and I shall die and be brought to life again with peace.”

When the Christians from Najran came to Madinah and continued to argue about Prophet Isa’s divinity (son of God), the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) tried in vain to convince them that he was a servant of Allah and a Prophet. Surah Al-Imran Ayahs 59 and 61 were revealed, “To Allah the case of Isa’ is that of Adam whom He created from earth and then said, “Exist” (Kun) and Adam came into existence.” “If anyone disputes after knowledge has come to you , say, let us bring our children and you bring your children, let us bring our women and you bring your women, let us bring ourselves and you bring your selves and let us invoke and lay the curse of Allah on the liars among us.” It is a historical fact unanimously reported by everyone that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) brought with him as “sons” Imam Hasan (a.s.) who was about 7 years old and Imam Husayn (a.s.) who was about six years old.

Lastly, Hazrat Ali al-Asghar, the 6 moths old innocent baby who was denied food and water for 3 days in the scorching heat of the desert of Karbala. The Infallible Imam Husayn (a.s.) who was pronounced by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) as the “Prince of the youths of Paradise” tried to remind the so-called Muslims in Karbala that he was the son of their Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) whom they were calling in Aza’an, he was the son of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) and the Lady of Paradise Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.). At last the Imam tested the humanity in the hearts of Yazid’s army but they proved to be below the basic level of humanity. The Imam (a.s.) brought Hazrat Ali al-Asghar (a.s.) and demanded water for him. They thought the baby was the strongest armament of the Imam (a.s.), hence they asked their prized archer, Hurmula to silence the baby with a three-pronged arrow, which was used to kill a camel. After being martyred, the baby smiled as if saying “Martyrdom is our tradition”. Hence Hazrat Ali al-Asghar (a.s.) testified his father’s stand for truth, justice and liberty for humanity.

Source: The Glorious Qur’an

THE INFALLIBLE IMAM MUHAMMAD TAQI AL-JAWAD (A.S.)

Imam Muhammad bin Ali, al-Taqi-al-Jawad was born on 10^th Rajab 195 A.H. in Madinah. His parents were the Infallible Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.) and Bibi Khaizarun. He became the Imam at the age of 8 years.

The caliph Mamun invited the young Imam to Baghdad to get him married to his daughter to fulfill his political aims. This infuriated his Abbasid clan. To substantiate his choice, Mamun arranged a meeting between the Imam and the leading scholars headed by Yahya bin Aktham, the Chief Justice of the kingdom. It was a grand occasion with 900 scholars present. Yahya asked:

                     “What is the compensation (kaffarah) for a person in Ihram who hunted and

                      killed his prey?” The Imam replied that there were more details required, and asked:                               

1.      Did the Muhrim (one in Ihram) hunt inside the Haram or outside?

2.      Did the Muhrim know the Sharia or not?

3.      Did he hunt intentionally or not?

4.      Did he hunt the first time or hunted many times?

5.      Was he free man or a slave?

6.       Was his prey a bird or an animal?

7.      Was it big or small?

8.    Did he hunt by day or night time?

9.      Was he an adult (baligh) or not?

10.  Was he repentant or not?

11.  Was his Ihram for Hajj or Umrah?

Yahya was stunned and looked down and started sweating. Mamun requested the Imam to answer the question himself. The Imam replied: “If he had killed the animal outside the sacred ground and it was winged and large, an atonement of a sheep would have been necessary for him. If he had struck it down in the sanctuary, the penalty would have been doubled. If he killed a young bird outside the sacred ground, then the atonement of a lamb which has been weaned off milk would have been required of him. If he had killed it in the sanctuary, then he would be required to sacrifice a lamb and the value of the young bird. As for wild animals, if it was a wild donkey, he would be required to sacrifice a cow. If it was an ostrich, the sacrifice of a camel would be necessary. If it had been a deer, then a sheep would be necessary. If he had killed any of those in the sanctuary, the penalty would have been doubled. Maamoun said to the Imam: “You have done excellent O Abu Jaffer and God has rightly adorned you”

Maamoun asked the Imam to ask any question from Yahya bin Akhtam.

The Imam asked the Chief Justice:

“Can you describe the situation when a man looked at a woman at dawn when it was forbidden (haram) to do so; but then at sunrise it was permissible (halal) ? Then at noon hour, it became haram ; but in the afternoon, it became permissible ? Then at sunset it became haram ; but at night, it became halal ? Then at midnight, it became haram ; but at dawn, it became halal for him to look at her”

Yahya bin Akhtam said: “By Allah! I do not know the answer to this question. We would benefit from your answer”

The Imam explained the answer as follows:

“At dawn, the woman was a slave of someone else; however, by sunrise, the man had already bought her for himself, so it became halal for him to look at her. “At noon, he made her free, so she became haram for him; but by afternoon, he had married her, so she became halal for him” “At sunset, he did zihar by which one’s wife becomes haram for a person; but by night time, he paid the penalty for Zihar, and so she became halal for him again. “At midnight, he divorced her; but by next morning he revoked his divorce, so she became halal for him”

To uphold the imperialistic and luxurious ways of life, these monarchs wanted to do away with these Godly Imams who were the symbols of righteousness, compassion, faith, piety, fraternity, and justice which are the main teachings of Islam. Similarly, Yazid’s demand of allegiance from Imam Husyain (a.s.), or Maamoun’s appointment of Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.) as heir apparent were two distinct aspects of the same wicked desire.

Contentment: The Imam used to live a simple and austere life wearing ordinary clothes. One day someone told him that since he sat next to the king, it did not befit him to wear such simple clothes. The Imam said: “If my value had been due to my clothes, it would have befitted me to wear expensive clothes, when it is not so, why should I give up simplicity. My present dress is concealing my body and it is comfortable, then why should I give up for costly ones. We Ahlul Bayt are content on whatever we get, and we do not allow greed to approach us.”

Hospitality: Like other imams, he was also very hospitable. Once, a guest arrived at his place in the middle of the night. The Imam asked him if he would like to have dinner. The man replied that although he was hungry but would not bother the Imam at such odd hour and that he would sleep hungry. The Imam said: “Guests do not sleep hungry at our place”

The Imam went inside and with the help of a servant, prepared the food and personally brought to the guest. Seeing this man started crying and on inquiry from the Imam, said: “I am crying at the thought that why the world did not recognize such Godly person”

Patience: The Abbasid clan did not approve of the marriage of Umme Fadhl with the Imam hence they continued to poison her ears. And Umme Fadhl herself was of a haughty nature and these instigations increased the gulf between them. She made the Imam’s life miserable, but the Imam exercised utmost patience.

Forgiveness: The relatives of the Imam were against him because of inheritance. Some of the allegations were that the Imam’s complexion differed from Imam Reza (a.s.) and they refused to accept that he was Imam Reza’s son. The Imam heard such taunting remarks but said nothing. One day, some money of Khums arrived and he distributed it to everyone including the one who was most inimical to the Imam. When people pointed out, the Imam said that he has left the affair to Allah. On hearing this, the person felt ashamed and fell on Imam’s feet and asked for forgiveness. The Imam had forgiven him.

Sources:

            Fourteen Masoomeen                                                              by Muhammadi Trust, London

            Akhlaq-e-A’imma                                                                       by Sayyid Zafar Hasan Amrohvi

            The Infallibles                                                                             by workshop@dir.com.Co.UK

              

                                                                                                                                 

BARA IBN AZIB, THE HONORABLE AND BRAVE COMPANION OF THE NOBLE PROPHET (S.A.W.A.S.)

Bara ibn Azib, a very honorable companion of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), a dignified narrator of Hadiths, a great warrior, and Ansar, who converted to Islam when he was only thirteen years old. His father was also a companion.

He had memorized some of the long chapters (Surahs) of the Glorious Qur’an. According to Ibn Sa’d, Tabaqa’t (v.4 pg.367), he was considered as the most renowned companion of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). As he was nurtured in the cradle of Islam and was spiritually motivated, he offered to fight in the Battle of Badr although he was only fifteen years old! As per Ibn Hisham in Sirat al-Nabawiyya and al-Istiyab, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) did not permit him to fight. However, he took part in fourteen wars and eighteen journeys with him (s.a.w.a.s.). After the sad demise of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), he took part in the conquest of Rey, Abhar and Qazwin. (Usd al-Ghabah)

He sincerely loved the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) and migrated to Kufa and settled next to his (a.s.)’s house. He took part and fought on the side of Imam Ali (a.s.) in the Battles of Jamal, Siffin and Nahrawan. Bara ibn Azib narrates his love and affection for the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and his Household in this way: “I always loved the Bani Hashem. After the sad demise of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), I feared that the government and caliphate would be usurped from them. When my fears came true and the caliphate was usurped, I was overcome with grief but the anguish of losing of Allah’s Prophet was more intense. After the earthly departure of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), we heard the news that some of them had pledged allegiance to Abu Bakr, I came out of my house. I saw Abu Bakr surrounded by Umar and Abu Ubaidah Jarrah with some other people. They would stop any passer bye and forced him and to pay allegiance to Abu Bakr saying, “You must pay allegiance to the Noble Prophet’s successor.” I was disgusted by this kind of forced allegiance and rushed to the house of Bani Hashem as fast as I could. I knocked at the door of their house frantically and insisted on seeing them.” (Qamus al-Rijal v.2 pg.154)

It can be deduced that Bara ibn Azib loved the Noble Prophet’s (s.a.w.a.s.) family and that he firmly supported Imam Ali (a.s.), who was busy with the burial rites of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), while his absence was cashed upon by the politically motivated companions of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.).

Bara ibn Azib also transmitted the event of Ghadeer-e-Khumm. Ibn Jawzi says, “Bara ibn Azib recounts that on the day of Ghadeer, the call to afternoon prayers was made.  The Noble Prophet led the congregational prayer. After the prayer, he took Ali’s hand into his own hand and said, “for whomsoever I am a leader and guide, this Ali is his leader and guide.”

Instantly after this divine appointment, Umar came forward to congratulate Ali (a.s.) and said, “I compliment you, O son of Abu Talib. From today onwards, you are the leader and Imam of all Muslim men and women.” (Tadkhirat al-Khawas page 29). As he had witnessed the events of Ghadeer-e-Khumm” hence after the sad demise of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), he was in a different state of mind than other Muslims, he was always sad and could not be consoled.

He died at the age of eighty and was buried in Kufa. (al-Istiab v.1 pg.945, Tabakhat v.4 pg. 368, Usd al-Ghabba v.1 pg285

               Source: Exemplary Youths during the Early Days of Islam by Muhammad Ali Chanarani

THE WALIYY WHO GAVE AWAY ALMS IN RUKU' - IMAM ALI (A.S.)

Ayah 55 of Surah al-Ma’idah states, “Innama Waliukumullahu wa Rasuluhu Wallazina Amanullazina Yuqimunassalaata wa Yutunazzakata wa hum Ra’keun.”” Verily, your guardian (Waliyy) is only Allah, His Messenger and those who believe, those who establish prayer and pay the poor rate while bowing down (in the prayer).”

It has been reported by ten authentic companions including Ibn Abbas, Ammar ibn Yasir, Ja’bir ibn Abdullah Ansari, Anas ibn Malik, Abu Dharr and the Muezzin of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)’s Mosque – Bilal, that during the prayer when the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and Imam Ali (a.s.) were praying in the congregational prayer, a beggar entered the mosque and solicited charity. As no one gave anything, he was leaving the mosque very dejected when Imam Ali (a.s.) while he was in ruku’ (bowing down), pointed his finger to the beggar who extricated a ring from his small finger and went away. This incident was confirmed by both Sunni and Shia scholars. According to Tafsir al-Mizan of Allama Tabatabai’, Ammar ibn Yasir said that after the revelation of this Ayah, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “The one upon whom I am master, then this Ali is his master.” According to As-Safi, The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) recited this Ayah at Ghadeer-e-Khum to state the position of Imam Ali (a.s.). In the book “Maj’ma-ul-Bayan”, Abu Dharr had described in detail the occurrence in the Sacred Mosque.

The term “Waliyy” does not mean friend or helper in this situation as friendship and helping refers to all Muslims but not here when it strictly refers to Allah (s.w.t.), the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and Imam Ali (a.s.). The use of plural form of verb for singular subject is to show importance, as it was mentioned in Surah Al-Imran Ayah 61, “Faman Hajjaka fihe min ba’de Ma’ja’aka minal Ilme Faqul Ta’lau Nadu Abana’ana wa Aban’akum, wa Nisa’ana wa Nisa’akum wa Infusana wa Anfusakum….” Here also the word “Anfusana” “our selves” was used but only Imam Ali (a.s.) was taken by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) in the “Mubahela”

It is worth-noting that the Wilaya or guardianship of Allah (s.w.t.), the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) is stated in one sentence. Hence, the obedience to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) must be, as it should be to Allah and the obedience to the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) or any of his successor Imams (a.s.). Further, normally, in the Glorious Qur’an, the prayers and alms are mentioned besides each other but they are mixed in one Ayah here. The guardianship is restricted to those who establish prayer and pay alms. Allah (s.w.t.) has counted the recommended charity of the ring as the poor rate. Moreover, the word “Innama” denotes the final decision by Allah.   

The Ayah points out the condition required for a person to hold the authority and the guardianship over the believers next only to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and Allah (s.w.t.) is the highest state of the spiritual attainment which makes the person able to be fully absorbed in witnessing the Glory of the Absolute and be alive to the needs of His creatures and respond to it. This is the state of which qualified one to be medium between the Absolute and the finites, near to both at the same times.

There is a tradition of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), “No one knows Allah except Ali and I, no one knows Ali except I and Allah, and no one knows me except Allah and Ali.” Hence, human beings should not compare themselves with Ali (a.s.) as to how one can concentrate on prayer and give alms to a beggar. Imam Ali (a.s.) used to be completely lost in prayer even when an arrow was extricated from his injured foot and he did not feel it!

Sources: The Glorious Qur’an (Urdu translation) by Ayatullah Naser Makarem Shirazi – Tafisr-e-                        Namuna

                 The Glorious Qur’an (English translation) by Ayatullah Agha H.M.M. Pooya Yazdi (r.a.)

                 An Enlightening Commentary into The Light of The Holy Qur’an

RESCUE OF ISLAM BY THE "GATEWAY OF KNOWLEDGE" - IMAM ALI (A.S.)

The historical dialogue between the Archbishop from Rome and the Infallible Imam Ali (a.s.), the “Gateway of Knowledge” and the “Soul of the Prophet”. This incident occurred immediately after the sad demise of the Chief of the Prophets, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) in Madinah. It was reported in the following authentic books:

“Jasaleeq” by Salman Farsi, Shaikh Tusi’s Fehrist, Shaikh Najjashi’s Musanafeen and Musannafat, Shaikh Deylamie’s Irshad al Quloob, Ibn Babeveh’s Al-Tawheed, Shaikh Mufid’s Al-Amali, and Allama Majlisi’s Bihar ul Anwar.

The Archbishop: Whether The Throne (Arsh) carries the Almighty or Almighty carries the Throne?

Imam Ali (a.s.): If you hear the correct answers, will you embrace Islam?

The Archbishop: Yes, I swear by God, if you answer our question accurately, all my companions and myself will embrace Islam.

Imam Ali (a.s.): Almighty carries the Throne and the skies. He has stated in the Qur’an that Almighty prevents skies and the earth from clashing against each other.

The Archbishop: O the learned scholar! Tell me where is God?

Imam Ali (a.s.): Above and beneath, in the North and in the South, in the East and in the West, He is dominant over all creations. Encompasses everyone everywhere. This verse of Qur’an is a witness to my words. “There is no secret talk among three and God is their fourth, nor among five but He is their sixth. God is with them even if less than that or more and wherever they may be. Then on the Day of Judgment He will inform them about what they have done.” (Mujadela:7)

The Archbishop: I swear by God! This scholar speaks the truth with divine grace exactly like Jesus. O the wise intellectual! Let me know whether Heaven is in this world or in the Hereafter and where these two exist?

Imam Ali (a.s.): The world is situated in the Hereafter and the Hereafter has circumambience over the world. The Hereafter is the place of rest for life. It is as if the person is sleeping and its soul is roaming. Our body dies but our soul is eternally alive. Almighty said: “The Hereafter is the relaxing place of the life, if you comprehend.”

 (Ankabut:64) Heaven and Hell are in this world. Dead person is buried and lives therein. It (grave) may be either a garden from the heaven or may be a ditch from the ditches of the Hell fire.

The Archbishop: O The great intellectual! Qur’an states that the entire earth will be in His fist on the Day of Resurrection and skies will be folded or scrolled in His right hand. (Zumar:67) When such a thing will happen, where would Heaven and Hell be located? Since they are under the same earth and skies.

Imam Ali (a.s.): Asked for a piece of paper and pen. He wrote “Heaven” and “Hell” on the paper and scrolled it and gave it to the Archbishop and asked to scroll it. He did it. Imam Ali (a.s.) asked: Has the writing disappeared or vanished?

The Archbishop: No, it is as it was.

Imam Ali (a.s.): As the writings of “Heaven” and “Hell” did not move, relocated or vanished from the paper by scrolling the paper, similarly, Heaven and Hell won’t disappear by scrolling of skies.

The Archbishop: O the great scholar! It is mentioned in Qur’an: “All things will perish except the face of God.” What does it mean and what is its evidence?

Imam Ali (a.s.): Asked one of the Muslims sitting nearby to bring logs of wood. When the logs of wood were brought, he lit the fire in them. When the logs were burning, and flames were rising in all directions, Imam Ali (a.s.) asked the Archbishop to show him the “face” of the fire.

The Archbishop: I cannot specify, it could be all over.

Imam Ali (a.s.): Fire is one of creations of God and we are incapable of identifying its face, so how could you label the face of the Almighty when no eye can see Him, nor mind can comprehend Him. There is nothing like God and He is hearing and forbearing as is written in Qur’an. (An’am:103)

The Archbishop: (was extremely fascinated by his knowledge, explanation, discussion based on his convincing logic and said: O the rightful Successor of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.a.s.), you have satisfactorily answered all my questions and I am guided to the true path through you.” He and his 200 companions converted to Islam.

               Source: Jasaleeq translated in English by Sanjeedeh Adedi

THE INFALLIBLE IMAM ALI AL-NAQI (A.S.)

Imam Ali al-Naqi (a.s.) was 10^th gem of the “Golden Chain” of Imamate. He was born in Madinah in 214 A.H. and was martyred in 254 A.H. and was buried in his home in Samarra, Iraq. Like his forefathers, he was also very kind to the slaves. One day he was going somewhere, he saw that a master was beating his slave severely. The Imam said to him: “O man, is this weak man your creature? “Not my creature, but my slave.” replied the man. The Imam said: “You have not created him, you have only purchased him for few Dirham and do you have the right to beat him so much?” The man said: “Yes, that is why I am beating him. He is my disobedient slave.” The Imam said: “If according to you, a disobedient slave is eligible for such punishment, for how much punishment a disobedient creature would be eligible? Do you not disobey the commands of Allah? Are you not the same person who lied and became drunk? If Allah punishes you for that disobedience, what would be your condition?”

During the time when Mutawakkil had made Imam’s life miserable, the Imam used to go without food, but he never complained to anyone about it. One day, he managed to get some food after being hungry for two mealtimes. He was about to commence eating when a guest arrived. He placed his food before the guest in a cheerful manner and did not at all let him realize that he had missed two meals. When the person finished eating, he gave the Imam some Khums money. The Imam did not use the money for food but distributed it to the poor and destitute and slept hungry!

Ziarat-e-Jamia:

One of the learned companions of the Imam was Musa bin Abdullah an-Naqa’i. Once he went to the Imam and requested for a composite Dua’a which he could recite whenever he visits for Ziarat of any Imams of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). The Imam (a.s.) dictated to him a Ziarat which became famous as “Ziarat-e-Jamia”

Intellectual qualities:

Like other Imams of AhlulBayt (a.s.), Imam Ali al-Naqi was also divinely appointed. When someone poisoned Mutawakkil, he made a vow that if he survived he would give “lot of money” in charity. When Mutawakkil recovered, there was a difference of opinion among scholars regarding what constituted “lot of money?” At last, the Mutawakkil sought the help from Imam Ali al-Naqi (a.s.) about it. He said: “Eighty Dirham be given in charity” When Mutawakkil requested for an explanation, the Imam said: “The Almighty Allah said: “Allah certainly helped on a lot of occasions.” Since the military expeditions of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) were eighty in numbers, it may be concluded that “a lot” denotes eighty.” The reply of the Imam pleased Mutawakkil.

A Christian committed fornication with a Muslim woman. He was brought to Mutawakkil. When Mutawakkil wanted to sentence him, he became a Muslim. Qazi Yahya said that he cannot be sentenced then because he was converted to Islam and all his past sins were remitted. Someone suggested that the opinion of the Master of the Faithful, Imam Ali al-Naqi be sought. The Imam said: “He should be beaten till he dies” The court scholars refused to accept this verdict and requested an explanation. The Imam said: “A clear verdict is given in Surah Momin Ayah 84 “But when they saw our punishment, they said: We believe in Allah alone and we deny what we used to associate with Him.”

Piety of the Imam:

Someone lied to Mutawakkil that Imam Ali al-Naqi was leading a luxurious life. And that he had collected a lot of wealth and weapons in his house and was secretly raising an army of his followers. Mutawakkill ordered that all the contents of Imam’s house may be collected. When the soldiers entered the Imam’s house, they found only a sack, a coarse shirt of wool and some clay utensils. When this was reported to Mutawa kill, he punished the man who had given false report.

Worship of Imam Ali Naqi:

Moutawakel brought the Imam from Madinah and imprisoned him without any reason and put a harsh man in-charge of the prison. But the man became a devotee of the Imam. When Mutawa kill heard about the situation, he called for the jailer and inquired. The jailer said: “O Chief! This person seems to be higher than the angels in spiritual accomplishments. I have never seen him eat during the day nor he sleeps whole night. His favorite activity is remembrance of Allah. He laments so intensely that his beard is wet with his tears. He recites the Glorious Qur’an in such a melodious way that anyone who hears it even if he had a heart of stone, it would melt like wax.”

Affection of Imam Ali al-Naqi

Despite leading an impoverished life in Samarra, he was not neglectful of the poor creatures of Allah. He himself visited the widows and orphans and carried food on his back for them while he himself remained hungry. If an orphan came in his presence, he showed affection and if he desired something, Imam (a.s) would provide it to him.

Sayings of Imam Ali al-Naqi:

Others will fear him who fears Allah. He, who obeys Allah, will be obeyed. He, who obeys Allah, will not care for the dissatisfaction of His creatures. He, who enrages the Creator, should be sure of encountering the dissatisfaction of the creatures .Do not expect honesty and purity of intentions from someone who has suffered from your malice; do not expect loyalty from one to whom you have been disloyal; do not expect goodwill from someone whom you regard with ill-will; his heart towards you is the same as your heart towards him. There are certain places in which Allah wants His servants to supplicate to Him. One of such places is the tomb of Imam Husayn (a.s.), King of the Martyrs (a.s.). No one can describe Allah with attributes other than those which He describes Himself. How can anyone describe Him when the senses are too short to perceive Him, illusions are too short to comprehend Him, ideas are too short to mark Him, and sights are too short to appreciate Him? He is remote in His nearness and near in His remoteness. He created the “how” without being asked “How” and founded the where without being asked “where?” He is out of how and where. He is the One and Only. Exalted be His majesty and sacred be His names. The neglector of “Bismillah” is the same as the neglector of (the obligatory) prayers.

Sources used:

Akhlaq-e-A’imma, Morals and Manners of the Holy Imams    by Maulana Zafar   Hasan Amrohvi

Fourteen Masoomeen                                                                 by Peer Muhammad Trust, London

Imam Reza Network                                                                                   Lantern of the Path

THE INFALLIBLE IMAM MUHAMMAD AL-BAQIR (A.S.) - HIS QUALITIES AND CHARACTER

Every member of the “Golden Chain of Divine Guides” possessed unlimited merits which cannot be condensed in a short article. However, efforts shall be made to highlight some of their qualities and characters.

Imam Muhammad al-Baqir was the son of Imam Ali ibnal Husayn (a.s.) and his mother was the daughter of Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (a.s.). He was born in Madinah and was martyred and buried in “Jannat ul Baqi’” in Madinah.

Clemency was the most important quality of the Imam. He did not mistreat anyone who wronged him. He forgave them and treated them kindly. Once a man from another revealed religion attacked him saying, “You are baqr (cow)” The Imam smilingly replied, “No, I am Baqir” The man continued, “You are the son of a cook”. The Imam calmly replied, “It is her job”

Patience was the hallmark of all the members of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). They were patient towards hardships and misfortunes. His grandfather, the Master of Martyrs, Imam Husayn (a.s.) had demonstrated unbelievable patience in Karbala. One of the example of his patience is that while he was sitting with his companions, a servant came and informed him about the death of his son. He said, “Praise belong to Allah for what he has given and what He has taken. Prevent them from weeping, prepare him for burial. No harm will come to you” Later, the Imam ordered the companions to pray over his son and bury him. On inquiry, the Imam told them that his slave girl had dropped the baby. The Imam freed the slave girl. Similarly, his great grandfather, Imam Ali (a.s.) was openly cursed from the mosques, but he restrained his anger.

He honored and released the slaves. He ordered his family members address the beggars respectfully. He had 60 slaves and released 20 before his death.

He was very generous towards his companions, the students and the poor of Madinah. Sulayman bin Qaram said that the Imam used to give us 600 to 1,000 dirhams. Other companions such as al-Hasan bin Kuthayr.

He, being the Imam of the pious, his face would turn yellow by the fear of Allah like his father, Imam Zayn al-Abidin (a.s.). Like one of the Traditions, “A servant is closer to his Lord when he is prostrating”. He had reported hundreds of traditions from his great grandfather, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). In the book under review, 74 hadiths are reported. Extracts from some of them are; Whoever fears Allah, Allah makes everything afraid of him. Whoever does not fear Allah, Allah makes him afraid of everything. Whoever is satisfied with the little livelihood of the property of Allah, He (Allah) is satisfied with his little deed Ali! I am the city of knowledge and you are the gate. He who claims that he can reach the city not through the gate tells lies. Sitting with the people of religion, is the honor of here and hereafter. Among the signs of unhappiness are: the impudence (shamelessly bold) of the eye, the cruelty of the heart, the intensity of the greediness in seeking livelihood, and the persistence of the sins. Four acts deaden the heart: sin after sin, much talk with the women, disputing with the fool, sitting with the extravagant. Belief is with the appreciation with heart, acknowledgment with tongue, and action with limbs. Every eye will weep on the Day of Judgment except three eyes: the eye that weeps out of the fear of Allah, the eye that blinks at what Allah has prohibited, and the eye that stays awake at night for Allah. Two kinds of community have no share in Islam: the extremists and the fatalists. Whoever helps the poor and treats the people with justice is a true believer. If two kinds of people from my community are righteous, my community is righteous. When they are corrupt my community is corrupt; they are the jurists and the rulers. The people are ungrateful for two blessings: security and good health. Accept the word of wisdom from fool and forgive the word of foolishness from the wise man. Allah’s anger and my anger are intense against him who sheds my blood and hurts me in respect of my family.

Source: The Life of Imam Muhammad ibn Ali al-Baqir (a.s.) by Baqir Shareef al-Qurashi (al-islam.org)

ALLAMA IQBAL (R.A.)'S PRAISE OF THE LADY OF PARADISE SAYYIDA FATIMA ZAHRA (S.A.)

Allama Iqbal (r.a.) was an extremely educated Sunni Muslim and “Thinker of Pakistan”. But his praise for the Chief of the women of the world (Hadith of Prophet) and Lady of Paradise (Hadith of Prophet), the mother of the Princes of Paradise; Imam Hasan and Imam Husayn (Hadith of Prophet), the wife of the “Nafse Rasool” (Qur’an), Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), is matchless and exemplary. In one of his Persian books “Ramooz-e-Bekhudi”, Allama Iqbal’s Qasidah and its translation in prose is reproduced here-under:

               Maryam az ek nisbate Isa aziz*Az se nisbat hazrate Zahra aziz

               Nure Chashme Rahmatul lil Alameen*An Imame Awwaleen o Akhareen

               Aan ke jaan dar paykare geeti damid*Rozgare Taaza aaeen aafraid

               Bano e Aan Tajdaare “Hal Ataa’” *Murtaza Mushkilkusha Shere Khuda

               Badshah waa Kalbai Aiwaan e oo*Yek Husaam o Yek Zirah Samaan e oo

               Maadar e Aan Markaz e Parkaar e Ishq*Maadar e Aan Karwan Salaar e Ishq

               Aan yeke Shame Shabistaan e Haram*Hafiz e Jamiyyat e Khairul Umam

               Taa Nashinad Aatish e Paikar o keen*Pusht e Paa Zad Bar sare Taaj o Nageen

               Waan digar Mawlai Abraar e Jahan*Quwwat e Bazoe Abraar e Jahan

               Dar Nawai Zindagi Soze Ast Husayn*Ahle Haq Hurriyyat Amoz az Husayn

               Seerat e Farzand ha az Ummahaat*Jouhar e Sidq o Safa az Ummahaat

               Mazra e Tasleem ra Hasil Batool*Madaraan ra Uswai Kaamil Batool

               Bahr e Muhtaj e Dalish Aan gona Sukht*Baa Yahudi Chaader e khud ra furukht

               Noori wa ham Aatishi Farmanbarish*Gum Raza’ish dar Razai Shuharish

               Aan Adab Parwarda e Sabr o Raza*Aasia Gar’den wa lab Qur’an sara

               Girya haei oo zabaleen be niyaz*Gauhar afshande badamaan e namaz

               Ask e oo barcheed Jib’rail az Zameen*Hamchu Shabnam raikht bar Arshe Bareen

               Rishta e Aa’een e Haq Zanjeer pa ast*Paas e Farman e Janaab e Mustafa ast

               Warna Gird e Turbatish Gar Deedami*Sajda ha bar Khak e oo Pasheedami

Running translation:

Hazrat Maryam is exalted by only one relation being the mother of Prophet Isa (a.s.), but Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) is far more respectable by three relations; her father was the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), her husband was Imam Ali (a.s.) and her sons were the Princes of Paradise; Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Husayn (a.s.). She was the beloved daughter of the chief of all Prophets. The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had brought peace and tranquility on earth and opened new avenues. Her husband (Imam Ali) was the Crown of the Surah “Hal Ata’”. Imam Ali (a.s.) was well-known helper of people in distress and was also known as “Murtaza” and “The Lion of Allah”. Imam Ali (a.s.) was the caliph of the largest empire at the time but his “Palace” was a small house and his belongings were the sword Zulfiqar and one shield which he used to wear only at the back! Her mother, Sayyida Khadija, was the pivotal figure as she gave all her immense wealth to her husband, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) for the propagation of Islam. Her son, Imam Hasan (a.s.) was one of the “Panjetan” and protector of Muslim Ummah. Imam Hasan (a.s.), to protect the Muslims from the fire of bloodshed, abandoned and kicked off the caliphate. Her other son, Master of Martyrs Imam Husayn (a.s.) was the leader of the pious and symbol of freedom fighters of the world. Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s jihad in Karbala has brought meaning and purpose in life and the followers of truth and righteousness will continue to draw inspiration from his patience, fortitude and courage. Character of children reflect their mothers and they learn truth and piety from their mothers. One of her names was “Batool” which means unlike other women she was free of menses. She was a perfect role model for women of the world. One time, there was no provision in her house to give to the needy, hence she sold her chador to give charity to the needy. All the angels and jinn were her servants, but she was obedient to her husband Imam Ali (a.s.). She was the symbol of patience and contentment and recited Qur’an while grinding grains and taking care of her children. She would shed tears while praying, Jib’rail would carry them and spread as dew in the heavens. I am constrained by the Islamic laws and the commandments of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). Otherwise, O Fatima, I would have circumbulated your grave (Like Ka’ba) and would prostrate on the soil of your grave!

THE LADY OF PARADISE - SAYYIDA FATIMA ZAHRA (S.A.) IN THE BOOKS OF SUNNI BROTHERS

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said:

 “Of all the women in the universe, four would suffices: Maryam, Asia, Kahdija, Fatima.” (Al-Sahihain v.3 p.171, Al-Bidaya wa Al-Nihaya v.2 p.59, The Virtues of Imam Ali by Ibn Maghazali p. 363)

“O Ali, Jibra’il has informed me that Allah has married you to Fatima” (Manaqib-e-Imam Ali by Ibn Al-Maghazali p.141)

“I am not pleased unless Fatima is pleased” (Manaqib-e-Imam Ali by Ibn Al-Maghazali p.342)

“All the children of a mother are attributed to their fatherly relations except the sons of Fatima.” (Al-Sawaiq Al-Muharaqa p.156 &187, Mustadarak al-Sahihain v.3 p.179, Kenz Al-Omal v.13 p.101, Nur Al-Absar p.144)

“The Head of women of Paradise is Fatima.” (Kenz Al-Omal v.13 p.94, Sahih Al-Bukhari Kitab al-Faza’il ch. Virtues of Fatima, Al-Bidaya wa Al-Nihaya v.2 p.61)

“If I were separated from the fruits of Paradise, I would kiss Fatima” (Nur Al-Absar p.51)

“The first people to enter Paradise will be Ali and Fatima” (Nur Al-Absar p.52, Kenz Al-Omal v.13 p.95)

“The verse of Purification was revealed concerning five people: Myself, Ali, Hasan, Husayn and Fatima” (Sahih Muslim Kitab Faza’il Al Sahaba, Is’af Al-Raghibeen p.116)

“The first one to enter Paradise will be Fatima” (Yanabi Al-Muwaddah v.2 p.322 ch.56)

“The Mehdi is from my family, from the sons of Fatima” Al-Sawaiq Al-Muhraqa p.237)

“Verily, Allah has weaned (fatama in Arabic) my daughter Fatima and her children and those who love them from the Hell Fire, and that is why she is named Fatima” (Kenz Al-Omal v.6 p.219)

“Fatima, you will be the first among my Ahlul Bayt to follow after me.” (Halyatil Awlia v.2 p.40, Sahih Al-Bukhari Kitab Al-Faza’il, Kenz al-Omal v.13 p.93, Muntakhab Kenz Al-Omal v5, p.97)

“Fatima is part of me. Whatever upsets her upsets me, and whatever harms her harms me.” (Sahih Muslim v.5 p.54, Khasais Al-Imam Ali of Nisai’ p.121-122, Misabih Al-Sunna v.4 p.185, Al-Isabah v.4 p.378, Kenz Al-Omal v.13 p.97, Al-tirmizi v.3 p.241, Hilyat al-Aowlia v.2 p.240, Muntakhib Kenz Al-Omal v. p.96, Yanabi Al-Muwaddah v.2 p.478)

“Fatima is part of me, and whoever pleases her pleases me.” (Al-Sawaiq Al-Muhriqa p.180 &132, Mustadrak Al-Hakim p.73, Yanabi Al-Muwaddah v.2 p.468)

“Fatima is part of me, so whoever makes her angry makes me angry” (Sahi Al-Bukhari v.3 p.1374, Khasais of Imam Ali of Al-Nisai’ p.122, Al-Jami Al-Sagheer v.2 p.653 n. 5858, Kenz Al-Omal v.3 p. 93-97, Muntakhab in margin of Al-Masnad v5 p.96, Masabih Al-Sunnah v.4 p.185, Is’af Al-Raghibeen p.188, Dhkha-ir Al-Uqubi p.37, Yanabi Al-Muwadda v2 p.52-79)

“Fatima is part of me and she is my heart and the soul which is between my two sides.” (Nur Al-Absar p.52

“Fatima is not like the women of the children of Adam” (Majma Al-Zawaid v.9 p.202)

               Source: Islam Chamber.blogspot.com     

SAHIFA-E-FATIMA (SUPPLICATIONS AND SERMONS)

Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), who was the only daughter of the Best of Creation, the Chief of all Prophets, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), whose titles include Siddiqah, Tahirah, Mubarakah, Batool, Raziah, Marziah, Muhaddesah, Umme Abiha etc. She was called by her father as the Chief of the women of the world. She was the wife of Imam Ali (a.s.) who is called “the distributor of Paradise or Hell”. She was the mother of “The Princes of Paradise” as declared by the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). She was one of the “Fourteen Infallibles”. Her duas and supplications and sermons have been collected in a book called “Sahifa-e-Fatima”

The Sahifa contains 68 Duas which cover Duas for week days, supplications after 5 times obligatory prayers, Duas to be recited at different situation in life and the life Hereafter. It also includes her sermons on Fadak, for women of Muhajir and Ansar, defense of Imam Ali (a.s.)’s rights and her Golden Sayings.

Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.)’s Dua on entering the Paradise: “All Praise is for Allah Who has removed sorrow from us. Surely Our Lord is Forgiving, Appreciative, Who has settled us in the everlasting abode. By His Grace, we are not touched in it by toil, nor by fatigue (35:34,35). O Allah, You are the Gracious, and more than Gracious. I ask You that You do not punish through the fire, those who love me and those who love my family.”   

Although, she was an infallible but being at the height of humility, she supplicates after Salaat al-Dhuhur. It is reproduced in a condensed form as under:

“Praise be to Allah who has made me not deny anything of His Book, who has guided me to His religion, and not made me worship anything other than Him. O Allah make agonies of death easy for me, alleviate its severity. Make my soul among the successful souls. When I am alone in the grave, I miss Your Mercy, and need my virtuous deeds. Then bless my resurrection and reckoning. Send with me, O My Lord, a light from Your Mercy moving with me on my right hand to assure me and make my heart steadfast, honor my face, confirm my speech and put me in the high rank of your Paradise, and grant me the companionship of Muhammad, your slave and Messenger in the highest rank of Paradise, and its best virtue, best gift , and most successful aspiration with those upon whom you have bestowed favors from among the prophets, the truthful, the martyrs and the righteous. O Allah, have blessings on Muhammad, the last of the prophets, and on all the prophets and messengers, and on all the angels, and on his good, pure progeny, and on all the imams of guidance. O Allah, have blessing on Muhammad as You have guided us by him, have blessings on him as You have had Mercy on us by him, have blessing on Muhammad as You have preferred us by him, have blessing on Muhammad as You have honored us by him, have blessing on Muhammad as You have saved us from an abyss of Fire. O You, the Most Generous, You have opened the door of supplication and repentance, so do not close before me the door of acceptance and save me by Your Mercy from Fire. O Most Gracious, Most Perfect, Most Glorious, Most Lofty, do not let an enemy or envier rejoice at my misfortune , and do not let an oppressive ruler overpower me nor a mutinous devil, by Your Mercy, O the Most Merciful of the merciful, and there is no power save in Allah, the Most High, the Most Great, and may Allah have blessing and peace on Muhammad and his progeny.”

Sources: scribed.com/sahifa Fatima pdf (Urdu), Duas.org

TYPES OF LOVE IN THE GLORIOUS QUR'AN

The word love (Hubb) and its different grammatical forms are mentioned 69 times in the Glorious Qur’an-the Last and Unpolluted Divine Message. It naturally falls into 5 distinct categories:

1.      Man’s love for Allah

2.      Allah’s love for man

3.      Allah’s love in negative sense

4.      Man’s love of things

5.      Human love for one another

Man’s Love for Allah: “They feed the destitute, orphans, and captives for the Love of Allah.” (76:8), saying, “We only feed you for the sake of Allah and we do not want any reward or thanks from you.” (76:9), “We answered his prayer and granted him his son, John, by making his wife fruitful. They were people who would compete in good deeds and pray to Us with love and reverence. With Us they were all humble people.” (21:90)

Allah’s love for man: “Give money for the cause of Allah but do not push yourselves into perdition. Do good; Allah loves the people who do good deeds.” (2:195), “Those who keep their promise and observe piety should know that Allah certainly loves the pious ones.” (3:76), “If two parties among the believers start to fight against each other, restore peace among them. If one party rebels against the other, fight against the rebellious one until he surrenders to the command of Allah. When he does so restore peace among them with justice and equality; Allah loves those who maintain justice.” (49:9), “Only through the divine mercy have you (Muhammad) been able to deal with your followers so gently. If you had been stern and hard-hearted, they would all have deserted you a long time ago. Forgive them and ask Allah to forgive (their sins) and consult with them in certain matters. But, when you reach a decision, trust Allah. Allah loves those who trust Him.” (3:159), “(Muhammad), tell them, “If you love Allah, follow me. Allah will love you and forgive your sins.” (3:31)

Allah’s love in negative sense: Fight, for the cause of Allah, those who fight you, but do not transgress, for Allah does not love the transgressors.” (2:190), “As soon as they leave you, they quickly commit evil in the land, destroying the farms and people. Allah does not love what is evil.” (2:205), “Tell them, “Obey Allah and the Messenger.” If they turn away (let it be known) that Allah does not love the unbelievers” (3:32), “However, to the righteously striving believers I shall give their rewards in full measure.” Allah does not love the unjust.” (3:57), “Do not show people that you are an inferior person. Do not walk around puffed-up with pride; Allah does not love arrogant and boastful people.” (31:18)

Man’s love of things: “He certainly has a strong love for wealth and riches.” (100:8), “Those who like to publicize indecency among the believers will face painful torment in this world and in the life to come. Allah knows what you do not know. “(24:19), “When it became dark at night, he (Ibrahim) saw a star and said, “This is my lord.” But when it disappeared, he said, “I do not love those who fade away.” (6:76)

Human love for one another: “Yusuf’s brothers said to one another, “There is no doubt that Yusuf and his brother are more loved by our father, even though we are all his offspring. He (our father) is certainly in manifest error.” (12:8), “(Muhammad), say, “I do not ask you for any payment for my preaching to you except (your) love of (my near) relatives.” (42:23), “His creating spouses for you out of yourselves so that you might take comfort in them; and His creating love and mercy among you. In this there is evidence (of the truth) for the people who (carefully) think.” (30:21)

BIRTH OF THE CHIEF OF THE WOMEN OF THE WORLD - SAYYIDA FATIMA ZAHRA (S.A.)

Generally, the food eaten by the parents, has an enormous effect on the future development of the child, because it is from this food the sperm is formed, and carried on to the womb to grow and become a human being. Furthermore, the psychological state of the parents during sexual intercourse has a significant effect on the child’s state of the mind, and his/her psychological behavior in future. Besides, the persistent want and earnest desire to have sexual intercourse are influential on the appearance, and intelligence of the child.

It is worth noting how Allah (s.w.t.) was arranging the birth of “The Chief of the women of the world”, “The Lady of Paradise”, the person whom the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) was to name, “Fatima Baz’atu Minni” (Fatima is a part of me) and call her “Umme Abi’ha” (Mother of her Father). Allama Muhammad Baqir Majlisi writes in “Bihar al-Anwar” volume 6: The Archangel Jibril descended and told him (s.a.w.a.s.), “O Muhammad! Allah the Most Exalted sends His peace upon you, and commands you to refrain from (come close to) Khadija for forty days.” Near the end of forty days, he (s.a.w.a.s.) sent Ammar Yassir to Sayyida Khadija (s.a.) and gave the message, “O Khadija! Do not think my separation from you means abandoning you, my Lord commanded me to do so and He praises you to His most honorable angels several times a day. I will be staying at (Hazrat) Fatima binte Asad’s house. At the end of forty days Angels Jibril and Mikhail descended and brought a plate covered with brocade handkerchief and said, Muhammad! Your Lord commands you to break your fasting with this food tonight.” Imam Ali (a.s.) said, “The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) uncovered the plate to find a cluster of dates and a bunch of grapes; he ate until satisfied and drank his need of water. Michaël washed his hands and Isra’fil dried them. The remaining food with the plate ascended to the heaven. Then he (s.a.w.a.s.) started to prepare for prayers when Jibril said to him, “Prayer is forbidden to you until you go to Khadija’s house.” Sayyida Khadija (s.a.) said, “As usual I locked my door, performed my prayer and retired to my bed. Then there was knock at the door and Muhammad entered the room. Unlike his usual practice of performing prayers, instead what occurs between a woman and her husband occurred between us, before the Prophet left I felt Fatima’s weight in my womb.”

The above narration was also mentioned by the following Sunni Muslims scholars: Khwarizmi in Maqtal al-Husayn (p63 and p68), Dahabi in al-Etedal (v2 p 26), Talkhees al-Mustadrak (v.3 p. 156) and Asqalani in Lisan al-Mizan (v4 p. 36)

In Amali of Shaikh al-Saduq, it is narrated by the Infallible Imam al-Reza (a.s.) that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “On the night of my Ascension to Heaven, Jibril took my hand and led me into Paradise, the he handed me dates from which I ate; those dates formed into sperm. Then I descended to Earth, I came unto Khadija who became pregnant with Fatima; thus, Fatima is human huri, whom whenever I long for Paradise I smell.”

Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi writes, “From a narrative of both Shia and Sunni scholars, we read, the Prophet on the night of Ascension was passing through Heaven, Jibril gave some of the fruit of Tooba tree, and when the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) returned to earth, the seed of Fatima Zahra was coagulated from that heavenly fruit.” It is reported that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) kissed Fatima (s.a.) frequently and on the criticism of A’isha, he replied, “Whenever I kissed Fatima, I smell the scent of Highest Heaven in her.”

Tabari in Dhakaer al-Uqbi, Asfuri in Shafai in Nuzhat al-Majalis and Qunduzi in Ynabe al Muwaadha narrated that Khadija said, “When the delivery time came near, I sent for the Quraishan midwives who refused to help me because I married Muhammad. During child birth, four beautiful women entered the house to help me in child birth; they were Mother Eve, Umm Kulthum, Musa’s sister, Asia bint Muzahim and Mariam bint Imran.”

Sources: Fatima, the Gracious by Muhammad Ordani, Bihar al-Anwar by Allama Muhammad Baqir Majlisi (r.a.), Fatima az-Zahra, World’s Most Outstanding Lady by Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi, Yanabe al-Muwaddah by Qunduzi