Al-BaaqirAl-Baaqir and the politics at his time and the politics at his time

By A.S. Hashim. MDBy A.S. Hashim. MD

In this slide show:In this slide show:

Discussed in this Slide Show:Discussed in this Slide Show:Happenings during every decade of Al-Baaqir's lifetime was discussedAl-Baaqir was witness to:

much social upheavalsneed for Islamic knowledge, specified and categorizedGovernment’s extensive use of undercover agents, and imposing its power, leading to devastating developmentsconstruction of numerous Masjids notably Masjid Al-Haram, Al-Aqsa, and expansion of al-Masjid al-NabawiExpansion of Muslim territory, including SpainExpansion of Muslim territory, including Spain

(Sermon 239, p 357)(Sermon 239, p 357)

Ali Refers to Ahlul BaytAli Refers to Ahlul Bayt

Imam Ali refers to Ahlul Bayt by sayingImam Ali refers to Ahlul Bayt by saying:: ، �ج�ه�ل� ال و�م�و�ت ،� �م �ع�ل ال �ش ع�ي ، هم� �ج�ه�ل� ال و�م�و�ت ،� �م �ع�ل ال �ش ع�ي هم�

، �م�ه�م� ع�ل ع�ن� �مهم� ل ح� م� ك �ر ب خ� ، ي �م�ه�م� ع�ل ع�ن� �مهم� ل ح� م� ك �ر ب خ� ، ي �ط�ق�ه�م� م�ن � �م ح�ك ع�ن� هم� ، و�ص�م�ت �ط�ق�ه�م� م�ن � �م ح�ك ع�ن� هم� و�ص�م�تف�يه�، �فون� �ل ت �خ� ي � و�ال �ح�ق( ال �فون� خ�ال ي � ف�يه�، ال �فون� �ل ت �خ� ي � و�ال �ح�ق( ال �فون� خ�ال ي � ال

�ج �ئ و�و�ال ،� �م ال ��س� اال �م د�ع�ائ �ج هم� �ئ و�و�ال ،� �م ال ��س� اال �م د�ع�ائ �، هم� �ص�ام �ع�ت �، اال �ص�ام �ع�ت اال�ه� �ص�اب ن ف�ي �ح�ق7 ال ع�اد� �ه�م� �ه� ب �ص�اب ن ف�ي �ح�ق7 ال ع�اد� �ه�م� اح�، ، ب �ز� اح�و�ان �ز� ه و�ان ان ل�س� �ق�ط�ع� و�ان مق�ام�ه�، ع�ن� �اط�ل �ب ه ال ان ل�س� �ق�ط�ع� و�ان مق�ام�ه�، ع�ن� �اط�ل �ب ال

�ه� �ت �ب م�ن �ه� ع�ن� �ت �ب م�ن ، ، ع�ن��ة و�ر�ع�اي �ة و�ع�اي ع�ق�ل� الد?ين� وا �ة ع�ق�ل و�ر�ع�اي �ة و�ع�اي ع�ق�ل� الد?ين� وا ع�ق�ل

�ة، و�ر�و�اي م�اع س� ع�ق�ل� � �ة، ال و�ر�و�اي م�اع س� ع�ق�ل� � ال ، Bير� �ث ك � �م �ع�ل ال و�اة� ر �ن( ، ف�إ Bير� �ث ك � �م �ع�ل ال و�اة� ر �ن( ف�إ

Bيل� ق�ل �ه ع�ات �يلB و�ر ق�ل �ه ع�ات ..و�ر

Ali Refers to Ahlul Bayt:Ali Refers to Ahlul Bayt:

They [Ahlul Bayt] are the life for [Divine] knowledge and the death They [Ahlul Bayt] are the life for [Divine] knowledge and the death keel to ignorance.keel to ignorance.

Their forbearance tells you of their knowledge, and their behavior Their forbearance tells you of their knowledge, and their behavior about their integrityabout their integrity

Their silence tells you of their wisdom…..Their silence tells you of their wisdom…..

Ahlul Bayt understood the correct spirit of Islam, attentively and Ahlul Bayt understood the correct spirit of Islam, attentively and painstakingly.painstakingly.

They carried Islam's precepts into practice. And all this was not by They carried Islam's precepts into practice. And all this was not by heresy or from narrators.heresy or from narrators.

Lo! The narrators of knowledge are many but those who truly Lo! The narrators of knowledge are many but those who truly understand it are only few. understand it are only few.

Al-Baaqir: Up to the age of 10 years Al-Baaqir: Up to the age of 10 years

Witnesses the horrendous happenings in KarbalaWitnesses the horrendous happenings in KarbalaIs taken along from Kufa to Damascus, then back to MedinaIs taken along from Kufa to Damascus, then back to MedinaExtremely affected by Karbala and the move to Damascus followed Extremely affected by Karbala and the move to Damascus followed by returning to Medinaby returning to MedinaAl-Baaqir saw Zainab, on a vigorous campaign in Medina, to explain Al-Baaqir saw Zainab, on a vigorous campaign in Medina, to explain what happened in Karbalawhat happened in KarbalaHe saw his father Zainul Abideen go into seclusion and cut off most He saw his father Zainul Abideen go into seclusion and cut off most contact with peoplecontact with peopleHe observed that people of Medina were inflamed and very angryHe observed that people of Medina were inflamed and very angryEveryone cried and mourned for Imam Al‑Husain. The mind of the Everyone cried and mourned for Imam Al‑Husain. The mind of the young Al‑Baaqir could only absorb the scenes with further young Al‑Baaqir could only absorb the scenes with further apprehension and remorse. apprehension and remorse.

Al-Baaqir: Up to the age of 10 years Al-Baaqir: Up to the age of 10 years

Al-Baaqir is tutored by his father Zainul Abideen.Al-Baaqir is tutored by his father Zainul Abideen.Heard of the uprising against Benu Umayya by Al-TawwaboonHeard of the uprising against Benu Umayya by Al-TawwaboonHeard of Al-Mukhtar after the killers of Al-Husain in IraqHeard of Al-Mukhtar after the killers of Al-Husain in IraqAl-Mukhtar forces kill Obaidullah ibn Ziyad in north of IraqAl-Mukhtar forces kill Obaidullah ibn Ziyad in north of IraqMedina had revolted too, and a horrific battle took placeMedina had revolted too, and a horrific battle took placeHis father, Zainul Abideen, takes on his shoulder hosting 400 of Benu His father, Zainul Abideen, takes on his shoulder hosting 400 of Benu Umayya clanUmayya clanWitnesses the atrocities inflicted on Medina by Yazid's force that Witnesses the atrocities inflicted on Medina by Yazid's force that looted, and ransacked Medina for 3 days after the battlelooted, and ransacked Medina for 3 days after the battleWhen Jabir Al‑Ansaari finally met Al‑Baaqir he excitedly hugged him, When Jabir Al‑Ansaari finally met Al‑Baaqir he excitedly hugged him, kissed his hand, and joyfully conveyed the salutation of the Prophet to kissed his hand, and joyfully conveyed the salutation of the Prophet to the young boy. the young boy.

Contemporary to Benu UmayyaContemporary to Benu Umayya

Al-Baaqir being Al-Baaqir being contemporary to contemporary to 3 of Benu 3 of Benu SufyanSufyan Khalifas Khalifas

(Benu Umayya)(Benu Umayya)Yazid son of Mu’awiyaYazid son of Mu’awiya

Mu’awiya son of YazidMu’awiya son of Yazid

Mu’awiya son of Abu SufyanMu’awiya son of Abu Sufyan

Yazid’s AtrocitiesYazid’s Atrocities

1. Karbala

2. Medina

3. Mecca

Al-Baaqir: In his boyhoodAl-Baaqir: In his boyhood

Marwan takes over the Khilaafah, is killed by his wife 9 months Marwan takes over the Khilaafah, is killed by his wife 9 months later.later.Abdul Malik ibn Marwan becomes the Khalifa.Abdul Malik ibn Marwan becomes the Khalifa.Zainul Abideen, active in teaching his children Islam.Zainul Abideen, active in teaching his children Islam.He concentrated on teaching them:He concentrated on teaching them:

the Holy Quran, then Tafseer, followed by the Hadith and the Holy Quran, then Tafseer, followed by the Hadith and Al‑Ah'kaamAl‑Ah'kaam

Al‑Baaqir was extremely receptive.  He not only showed an Al‑Baaqir was extremely receptive.  He not only showed an unparalleled brilliance of mind but also the eagerness to absorb the unparalleled brilliance of mind but also the eagerness to absorb the Islamic knowledge.Islamic knowledge.It was not only his father who tutored him, it was also the collective It was not only his father who tutored him, it was also the collective effort of the whole family.  His great‑aunt Zainab, great-uncle Ibn effort of the whole family.  His great‑aunt Zainab, great-uncle Ibn Al‑Hanafiyah, or others, they all participated.Al‑Hanafiyah, or others, they all participated.

During his teen yearsDuring his teen years

Mail service previously introduced by Mu’awiya has become better Mail service previously introduced by Mu’awiya has become better and much improved.and much improved.Undercover agents that used to be everywhere had become even Undercover agents that used to be everywhere had become even more ominous and meanacing.more ominous and meanacing.Politically turbulent times under Al‑Zubair's rulership of 7 years, for Politically turbulent times under Al‑Zubair's rulership of 7 years, for he tried to seize the Khilaafah from Benu Umayya. he tried to seize the Khilaafah from Benu Umayya. Many military clashes evolved between Abdul Malik, and Ibn Zubair Many military clashes evolved between Abdul Malik, and Ibn Zubair Al‑Baaqir was very grieved by the bloodshed caused by Al-Hajjaj in Al‑Baaqir was very grieved by the bloodshed caused by Al-Hajjaj in Mecca, and how he wrecked the Ka'baMecca, and how he wrecked the Ka'baAl‑Baaqir continued to absorb the enormous amount of knowledge Al‑Baaqir continued to absorb the enormous amount of knowledge made available to him.  Participated in the Discourses his father was made available to him.  Participated in the Discourses his father was giving.giving.

Al-Baaqir understands his father’s aimAl-Baaqir understands his father’s aim

Al-Baaqir’s father, Zainul Abideen, being more now in the public's eyeAl-Baaqir’s father, Zainul Abideen, being more now in the public's eyeteaching Islam, teaching Islam, excessively worshipping, excessively worshipping, helping people, and helping people, and regularly crying about Imam Al‑Husain,regularly crying about Imam Al‑Husain,

Zainul Abideen attracted hordes of people, and was teaching an ever Zainul Abideen attracted hordes of people, and was teaching an ever enlarging body of students.  enlarging body of students.  Tutoring students was with the aim of:Tutoring students was with the aim of:

producing high quality scholars,producing high quality scholars,who were to teach others aboutwho were to teach others about true true Islam,Islam,thus spread the word to the general public about thus spread the word to the general public about the motive of and the motive of and the principlesthe principles which Imam Al‑Husain had given his life for, and which Imam Al‑Husain had given his life for, andat the same time uncover the offenses of Benu Umayya.at the same time uncover the offenses of Benu Umayya.

During his Teen YearsDuring his Teen Years

The aim was to teach Islam as Muhammad (pbuh) had taught it.The aim was to teach Islam as Muhammad (pbuh) had taught it.The aim was to The aim was to popularize piety and righteousness,popularize piety and righteousness, to make them to make them the very foundation for Islamic fabric, the very foundation for Islamic fabric, and at the same time never to compromise with the ruling class and at the same time never to compromise with the ruling class (Benu Umayya or others) if Islam was ever jeopardized.(Benu Umayya or others) if Islam was ever jeopardized.Al‑Baaqir and his father were busy in the educational process, the Al‑Baaqir and his father were busy in the educational process, the discourses, which were active and dynamic.  discourses, which were active and dynamic.  As a teenager Al‑Baaqir raised so many thought‑provoking questions As a teenager Al‑Baaqir raised so many thought‑provoking questions that people nick‑named him Al‑Baaqir.  that people nick‑named him Al‑Baaqir.  Al‑Baaqir means Al‑Baaqir means the one who penetrates deeply, or delves into any the one who penetrates deeply, or delves into any problem and extracts its high value, its treasure.problem and extracts its high value, its treasure. Religious problems that seemed too difficult to solve by many people Religious problems that seemed too difficult to solve by many people were easy for him to come out with wonderful answers.were easy for him to come out with wonderful answers.

During his Teen YearsDuring his Teen Years

Al‑Baaqir's brothers also participated in the discourses, the ones Al‑Baaqir's brothers also participated in the discourses, the ones father Zainul Abideen was conducting. Notable Students were:father Zainul Abideen was conducting. Notable Students were:

Al-Hasan Al‑Basri, Al-Hasan Al‑Basri, Al‑Thamali, Al‑Thamali, Al‑ZuhriAl‑ZuhriIbn Tawoos, and many other erudite scholars were the students in Ibn Tawoos, and many other erudite scholars were the students in these discourses. these discourses. 

The dean, the tutor, and the professor, was Imam Zainul Abideen, The dean, the tutor, and the professor, was Imam Zainul Abideen, and as Al‑Baaqir and his brothers participated regularly, their store and as Al‑Baaqir and his brothers participated regularly, their store of knowledge became ever so large.  of knowledge became ever so large.  That of Al‑Baaqir was immense.That of Al‑Baaqir was immense.

Al-Baaqir: During his TwentiesAl-Baaqir: During his Twenties

When Al‑Baaqir When Al‑Baaqir was in his twenties was in his twenties many divergent many divergent ideologies ideologies emerged in the emerged in the Islamic world and Islamic world and had to be dealt had to be dealt with and corrected. with and corrected.

1.1. the the JabriahJabriah (Emphasizing (Emphasizing Absolute Predestination),Absolute Predestination),

2.2. the the QadariyahQadariyah (Emphasizing (Emphasizing Absolute free will),Absolute free will),

3.3. the the KharijiKhariji (deviators), (deviators),

4.4. Those of Those of Al‑Raa'yAl‑Raa'y (the (the opinionated),opinionated),

5.5. Those of Those of Al‑QiyasAl‑Qiyas, (Users of , (Users of analogy), andanalogy), and

6.6. the the Murji'ahMurji'ah, (acknowledgers of , (acknowledgers of Benu Umayya legitimacy, but Benu Umayya legitimacy, but free to criticize them)free to criticize them)

In his TwentiesIn his Twenties

Muhammad Al‑Baaqir Marries Umm Farwa, the Muhammad Al‑Baaqir Marries Umm Farwa, the great-granddaughter of Khalifa Abu Bakr.great-granddaughter of Khalifa Abu Bakr.More than a year later, in the year 83H, a boy More than a year later, in the year 83H, a boy was born to him.  They called him Ja'far.was born to him.  They called him Ja'far.Al‑Baaqir is sought after for his enormous Al‑Baaqir is sought after for his enormous knowledge.knowledge.People endearingly call him Al‑Baaqir, for his People endearingly call him Al‑Baaqir, for his in‑depth analysis of any religious problemin‑depth analysis of any religious problem..Al-Baaqir also means: Al-Baaqir also means: the one who discloses the one who discloses treasures of wisdom underlying various Islamic treasures of wisdom underlying various Islamic laws.laws.

The Currency: The money as it wasThe Currency: The money as it was

Before the advent of Islam and after it, the Before the advent of Islam and after it, the money used to be:money used to be:

Mainly coins made in the Byzantine and Persian Mainly coins made in the Byzantine and Persian EmpiresEmpiresThe Arabs did not make their own coins, be they The Arabs did not make their own coins, be they Dirhams or DinarsDirhams or Dinars

The Byzantine Emperor threatened to withhold The Byzantine Emperor threatened to withhold the currency of the Ummah the currency of the Ummah Thus a crisis was soon to take place.Thus a crisis was soon to take place.Khalifa Abdul Malik asks for Al-Baaqir’s help and Khalifa Abdul Malik asks for Al-Baaqir’s help and assistance to solve the looming problem.assistance to solve the looming problem.

The CurrencyThe Currency

1.1. The Byzantine emperor was threatening:The Byzantine emperor was threatening:a.a. to withdraw the dominant Byzantine currency, to withdraw the dominant Byzantine currency,

thus sabotage the Islamic Ummahthus sabotage the Islamic Ummahb.b. unless concessions were made by the Muslims, unless concessions were made by the Muslims,

(which were unacceptable).(which were unacceptable).c.c. Until now the currency in the Muslim world had Until now the currency in the Muslim world had

been predominantly the Byzantine currency.been predominantly the Byzantine currency.

2.2. Abdul Malik the Khalifa sends for Al-Baaqir to Abdul Malik the Khalifa sends for Al-Baaqir to solve the crisis (the currency problem facing the solve the crisis (the currency problem facing the nation).nation).

Al-Baaqir Solves the Currency ProblemAl-Baaqir Solves the Currency ProblemOrientalists call it a stroke of genius.Orientalists call it a stroke of genius.

1.1. Stop dealing with the Byzantine currency, Stop dealing with the Byzantine currency,

2.2. Build Muslim currency (coins) instead,Build Muslim currency (coins) instead,a.a. Inscribe on one side La Ilaaha Illa Allah,Inscribe on one side La Ilaaha Illa Allah,

b.b. Inscribe on the other side Muhammad Rasool Allah,Inscribe on the other side Muhammad Rasool Allah,

c.c. Stamp the edge of the coin with the date and locality, Stamp the edge of the coin with the date and locality, and and

d.d. Have special scales to weigh the gold currency pieces Have special scales to weigh the gold currency pieces to make sure its accurate worth.to make sure its accurate worth.

Al-Baaqir and Benu UmayyaAl-Baaqir and Benu Umayya

During his lifetime Al‑Baaqir witnessed During his lifetime Al‑Baaqir witnessed 10 rulers10 rulers of Benu Umayya, of Benu Umayya, whose rulership aroused political turmoil of a unique nature.  whose rulership aroused political turmoil of a unique nature.  Benu Umayya's rule was not acceptable to the pious. Benu Umayya's rule was not acceptable to the pious. Since Al‑Baaqir was calling for the Islamic Shari'ah and Since Al‑Baaqir was calling for the Islamic Shari'ah and emphasizing piety as the basis, emphasizing piety as the basis,

there developed perpetual friction, or a creative tension, there developed perpetual friction, or a creative tension, between him on the one hand and the ruling clique on the other between him on the one hand and the ruling clique on the other hand.  hand. 

Fearful for their position, Benu Umayya held Al‑Baaqir as a Fearful for their position, Benu Umayya held Al‑Baaqir as a suspect.  suspect.  Benu Umayya knew they did not come about by Shoora as Islam Benu Umayya knew they did not come about by Shoora as Islam had enjoined, had enjoined,

but by means of force, so they were anxious to hold to power at but by means of force, so they were anxious to hold to power at any cost.  any cost. 

Therefore, Benu Umayya did not take lightly to Ahlul Bayt (who Therefore, Benu Umayya did not take lightly to Ahlul Bayt (who shunned them).shunned them).

Al-Baaqir Contemporary KhulafaaAl-Baaqir Contemporary Khulafaa

During his Lifetime, Al-During his Lifetime, Al-Baaqir was contemporary to Baaqir was contemporary to the Following ten Rulers of the Following ten Rulers of Benu Umayya: Benu Umayya:

3 of Benu Sufyan and3 of Benu Sufyan and

7 of Benu Marwan7 of Benu Marwan

Benu Sufyan:Benu Sufyan:1.1. Mu'awiya son of Abu SufyanMu'awiya son of Abu Sufyan

2.2. Yazid son of Mu'awiyaYazid son of Mu'awiya

3.3. Mu'awiya son of YazidMu'awiya son of Yazid

Benu Marwan:Benu Marwan:1.1. Marwan son of Al‑HakamMarwan son of Al‑Hakam

2.2. Abdul Malik son of MarwanAbdul Malik son of Marwan

3.3. Waleed son of Abdul MalikWaleed son of Abdul Malik

4.4. Suleiman son of Abdul MalikSuleiman son of Abdul Malik

5.5. Omar son of Abdul AzizOmar son of Abdul Aziz

6.6. Yazid II son of Abdul MalikYazid II son of Abdul Malik

7.7. Hisham son of Abdul MalikHisham son of Abdul Malik

Contemporary to KhalifasContemporary to Khalifas

Al-Baaqir being Al-Baaqir being contemporary to contemporary to 7 of Benu 7 of Benu MarwanMarwan Khalifas Khalifas

(Benu Umayya)(Benu Umayya)Omar son of Abdul AzizOmar son of Abdul Aziz

Hisham son of Abdul MalikHisham son of Abdul Malik

Yazid II son of Abdul MalikYazid II son of Abdul Malik

Al-WaleedAl-Waleed

Abdul MalikAbdul Malik

SuleimanSuleiman

MarwanMarwan

Flavors of Benu UmayyaFlavors of Benu Umayya

For every ruler, however, there is a bad side and a good side.  For every ruler, however, there is a bad side and a good side.  Though Benu Umayya were dictatorial monarchs, some of them Though Benu Umayya were dictatorial monarchs, some of them were also:were also:

accomplished administrators, accomplished administrators, others expansive, others expansive, yet some of them unusually arrogant and mean.  yet some of them unusually arrogant and mean.  Some of them were playboys of the time, Some of them were playboys of the time, others just pleasure loving, and others just pleasure loving, and some of them very stingy.  some of them very stingy. 

It is important, therefore, to have an overview of the rule and It is important, therefore, to have an overview of the rule and background of the rulers (Khalifas) during the lifetime of Imam background of the rulers (Khalifas) during the lifetime of Imam Al‑Baaqir, and to have a panorama of the times. Al‑Baaqir, and to have a panorama of the times. 

Abdul Malik son of MarwanAbdul Malik son of Marwan

Abdul Malik maintained central authority over the many Arab Abdul Malik maintained central authority over the many Arab landlords.landlords.Abdul Malik Arabizes:Abdul Malik Arabizes:Abdul Malik decreed the Arabic language on the administration Abdul Malik decreed the Arabic language on the administration as mandatory as mandatory

to replace Greek, Aramaic, and Persian languages to replace Greek, Aramaic, and Persian languages that were used till his time.  Andthat were used till his time.  And

Tax‑books and books of administration henceforth were in Tax‑books and books of administration henceforth were in Arabic.Arabic.All officials were made to learn and deal through Arabic All officials were made to learn and deal through Arabic language, language,

to replace other languages which dominated before then by to replace other languages which dominated before then by indigenous administrative tradition.indigenous administrative tradition. (The Venture of Islam, (The Venture of Islam, Marshall Hodgson, Vol. 1, Page 246.)Marshall Hodgson, Vol. 1, Page 246.)

Abdul Malik son of MarwanAbdul Malik son of Marwan

Abdul Malik enlarged the Prophet's mosque, Abdul Malik enlarged the Prophet's mosque, but had to tear down some of the historic buildings.but had to tear down some of the historic buildings.

Abdul Malik tried to show affinity to the growing Abdul Malik tried to show affinity to the growing piety‑minded people (spearheaded by Zainul Abideen) piety‑minded people (spearheaded by Zainul Abideen) in Medina to gain their supportin Medina to gain their supportBuilds the Dome of the Rock:Builds the Dome of the Rock:

Dome of the Rock took 7 years to build.Dome of the Rock took 7 years to build.It cost all the funds from Egypt (taxation) collected over a It cost all the funds from Egypt (taxation) collected over a period of 7 years.period of 7 years.Builders, engineers, artisans, and artists from all over were Builders, engineers, artisans, and artists from all over were employed.employed.

Abdul Malik son of MarwanAbdul Malik son of Marwan

Al-Hajjaj bloodily clashed with Ibn Zubair in Mecca and wrecked the Ka'ba,Al-Hajjaj bloodily clashed with Ibn Zubair in Mecca and wrecked the Ka'ba,He killed Ibn Zubair who was the grandson of Khalifa Abu Bakr.He killed Ibn Zubair who was the grandson of Khalifa Abu Bakr.

When as governor, Al‑Hajjaj showed terrifying violence in Iraq, leading to a When as governor, Al‑Hajjaj showed terrifying violence in Iraq, leading to a lot of bloodshed, lot of bloodshed,

killed numerous innocent people, especially the loyalist to Ahlul Bayt.  killed numerous innocent people, especially the loyalist to Ahlul Bayt.  Al‑Hajjaj had a lust for bloodshed.Al‑Hajjaj had a lust for bloodshed.

Al‑Hajjaj ruled over the eastern part of the Islamic nation, Al‑Hajjaj ruled over the eastern part of the Islamic nation, using ruthless means at his disposal to wield obedience to the central using ruthless means at his disposal to wield obedience to the central authority of Abdul Malik.authority of Abdul Malik.

Al‑Hajjaj put down Khariji revolts.Al‑Hajjaj put down Khariji revolts.Al‑Hajjaj built Wasit and could use only Syrian troops since he could not Al‑Hajjaj built Wasit and could use only Syrian troops since he could not rely on Iraqis, the Iraqis hated him profoundly.rely on Iraqis, the Iraqis hated him profoundly.Al‑Hajjaj improved the irrigation canals in Iraq, thus improving thereby the Al‑Hajjaj improved the irrigation canals in Iraq, thus improving thereby the agricultural yield.agricultural yield.

And he increased revenue to the treasury.And he increased revenue to the treasury.

Al-Waleed son of Abdul MalikAl-Waleed son of Abdul Malik

BUILDING MASJIDS:BUILDING MASJIDS:Al‑Masjid Al‑Umawi in Damascus, massive and ornate, was built.Al‑Masjid Al‑Umawi in Damascus, massive and ornate, was built.Enlarged the Masjid Al‑Nabawi, the Prophet's Mosque, though some Enlarged the Masjid Al‑Nabawi, the Prophet's Mosque, though some historical buildings nearby had to be demolished.historical buildings nearby had to be demolished.

MILITARY ENDEAVORS OF AL‑WALEED:MILITARY ENDEAVORS OF AL‑WALEED:Al‑Waleed recaptured the territories lost to the Byzantines in Al‑Waleed recaptured the territories lost to the Byzantines in Anatolia then advanced into the Byzantine Empire.Anatolia then advanced into the Byzantine Empire.

Muslims expanded into high central Asia (Transoxania) where Muslims expanded into high central Asia (Transoxania) where Bukhara and Tashkent are located.  This was the vital silk route.Bukhara and Tashkent are located.  This was the vital silk route.Recuperated all lost territories in Western Africa.Recuperated all lost territories in Western Africa.Muslims expanded into Spain, moved up to Southern France.Muslims expanded into Spain, moved up to Southern France.

Hisham son of Abdul MalikHisham son of Abdul Malik

THE PERSON OF HISHAM:THE PERSON OF HISHAM:Hisham was greedy, cross‑eyed, un‑comely, and bad‑looking.Hisham was greedy, cross‑eyed, un‑comely, and bad‑looking.Hisham was stone‑hearted, Hisham was stone‑hearted,

rough and tough, rough and tough, without tact or discretion.  without tact or discretion.  He loved to accumulate wealth, but also used that to build.He loved to accumulate wealth, but also used that to build.

Hisham loved horse racing, and was reputed to have 4,000 horses.Hisham loved horse racing, and was reputed to have 4,000 horses.Since Hisham was tightfisted and a miser, many people followed his Since Hisham was tightfisted and a miser, many people followed his suit, suit,

therefore charities decreased to such a level therefore charities decreased to such a level that livelihood was very difficult for the impoverished and disadvantaged that livelihood was very difficult for the impoverished and disadvantaged people.people.

Hisham son of Abdul MalikHisham son of Abdul Malik

Just like his father (Abdul Malik), Hisham was also dictatorial but a Just like his father (Abdul Malik), Hisham was also dictatorial but a capable administrator.capable administrator.

Hisham enhanced and strengthened the outposts at the frontiers.Hisham enhanced and strengthened the outposts at the frontiers.Muslims expanded into the Sind territory in India which came under Muslims expanded into the Sind territory in India which came under the domain of Islam.the domain of Islam.There were further advances in Spain, up to 50 miles south of Paris.There were further advances in Spain, up to 50 miles south of Paris.

Hisham's strong control led to an impressive amount of bureaucratic Hisham's strong control led to an impressive amount of bureaucratic organization directly in Muslim hands and centrally controlled from the organization directly in Muslim hands and centrally controlled from the Khalifa's capital.Khalifa's capital.the Musaadarah the Musaadarah المصادرهالمصادره : The governors and heads of financial : The governors and heads of financial bureaus were under temptation to enrich themselves at the expense of bureaus were under temptation to enrich themselves at the expense of the treasury. the treasury.

More so during Hisham's time it became an established practice More so during Hisham's time it became an established practice that an official who incurred the special displeasure of the Khalifa that an official who incurred the special displeasure of the Khalifa might be discharged and arrested in a moment, might be discharged and arrested in a moment, subjected to scrutiny about embezzlement and subjected to scrutiny about embezzlement and fined a corresponding sum; even use torture in the process. fined a corresponding sum; even use torture in the process.

Omar II (son of Abdul Aziz)Omar II (son of Abdul Aziz)

Omar II scrupulously accorded the privileges to the old Medina Omar II scrupulously accorded the privileges to the old Medina families (Muhajiroon and Ansaar) as Omar Ibn Al‑Khattab had families (Muhajiroon and Ansaar) as Omar Ibn Al‑Khattab had granted them previously  (which Benu Umayya had cut down those granted them previously  (which Benu Umayya had cut down those privileges).privileges).Omar returned Fadak to Ahlul Bayt.  Fadak was the property which Omar returned Fadak to Ahlul Bayt.  Fadak was the property which the Prophet (pbuh) had given to Fatima as inheritance, and was the Prophet (pbuh) had given to Fatima as inheritance, and was denied her as soon as the Prophet died.denied her as soon as the Prophet died.Omar II ended the condemnation (cursing) of Imam Ali on the pulpits, Omar II ended the condemnation (cursing) of Imam Ali on the pulpits, something that was having profound negative effect on people.something that was having profound negative effect on people.Omar II corrected numerous injustices leading to acceptable Omar II corrected numerous injustices leading to acceptable settlement, examples:settlement, examples:

Some Christian groups had their tribute reduced.Some Christian groups had their tribute reduced.Church lands in Egypt were freed of certain taxes.Church lands in Egypt were freed of certain taxes.Other illegal taxes in Iran were remitted.Other illegal taxes in Iran were remitted.Some excess taxes already paid were restored.Some excess taxes already paid were restored.

Omar II AdministrationOmar II Administration

Omar II managed to find effective governors who:Omar II managed to find effective governors who:yet ruled without brutality to the persons of the Muslims, andyet ruled without brutality to the persons of the Muslims, andabstained from building up private fortunes.abstained from building up private fortunes.Perhaps his most important policy was one of quietly treating all Perhaps his most important policy was one of quietly treating all provinces alike.provinces alike.

In particular, Omar II removed from Iraq the more obvious evidences of In particular, Omar II removed from Iraq the more obvious evidences of Syrian dominion, perhaps even many Syrian troops.Syrian dominion, perhaps even many Syrian troops.Omar II gave some remoter provinces more local control of their Omar II gave some remoter provinces more local control of their revenues.revenues.The central budget was reduced (despite a program of charities which The central budget was reduced (despite a program of charities which extended to all provinces, not just chiefly to Syria as had previous extended to all provinces, not just chiefly to Syria as had previous Marwani charities)Marwani charities)Eliminated wars on most frontiers (which became glorified plundering Eliminated wars on most frontiers (which became glorified plundering expeditions) and peace with the Byzantines was prudently accorded.expeditions) and peace with the Byzantines was prudently accorded.

Al-Baaqir admonishes Omar II of Abdul AzizAl-Baaqir admonishes Omar II of Abdul Aziz

1.1. Al-Baaqir advised Omar II: “Pay heed to what company you like to be Al-Baaqir advised Omar II: “Pay heed to what company you like to be with when in the presence of your Lord, andwith when in the presence of your Lord, and

2.2. Look at what you loathe to be with when in His presence andLook at what you loathe to be with when in His presence and3.3. Wish not to have a commodity that is of no use to those before you, Wish not to have a commodity that is of no use to those before you,

since it won't be of use to you.since it won't be of use to you.4.4. O Omar!O Omar!

a.a. Open your doors to the public, be accessible, be just, and repeal Open your doors to the public, be accessible, be just, and repeal all acts of injustice.all acts of injustice.

b.b. With three qualities; you will have advanced your faith in Allah:With three qualities; you will have advanced your faith in Allah:I.I. The satisfied person whose satisfaction does not lead him to The satisfied person whose satisfaction does not lead him to

commit falsehood [wrong doing]commit falsehood [wrong doing]II.II. The angry person whose anger does not lead him to commit The angry person whose anger does not lead him to commit

wrong, andwrong, andIII.III. The man of power who does not permit his power take what The man of power who does not permit his power take what

is not hisis not his

Map during Benu Umayya KhilaafahMap during Benu Umayya Khilaafah

MediterraneanMediterranean

SpainSpain

TransoxaniaTransoxania

SindSind

Expansion during Benu Umayya KhilaafahExpansion during Benu Umayya Khilaafah

SpainSpainTransoxaniaTransoxania

Sind areaSind area

MediterraneanMediterranean

The three phases of IslamThe three phases of Islam

Islam

1. Muhammad

2. Ali, Hasan &Husain3. Rest of Imams

The 1 1stst of 3 Phases of Islam of 3 Phases of IslamPHASEPHASE CARRIED OUT BY: CARRIED OUT BY: TASKS CONSISTING  OF:TASKS CONSISTING  OF:

FIRSTFIRST

PHASEPHASE

  

Muhammad Muhammad 

(pbuh) (pbuh)

Emphasis was on teaching Emphasis was on teaching Islam in depth, especially to Islam in depth, especially to the Sahaaba  (Companions), the Sahaaba  (Companions), and making Islam available and making Islam available to the maximum number of to the maximum number of people—yet, bearing in mind people—yet, bearing in mind that it would take an average that it would take an average person a long time to person a long time to assimilate Islam. Therefore, assimilate Islam. Therefore, Muhammad (pbuh) did not Muhammad (pbuh) did not fight the hypocrites.fight the hypocrites.

The 2nd of 3 Phases of Islam

PHASEPHASE CARRIED OUT BY: CARRIED OUT BY: TASKS CONSISTING TASKS CONSISTING  OF: OF:

SECONDSECOND

PHASEPHASE

  

Ali, Al-Hasan, Ali, Al-Hasan, and Al-Husainand Al-Husain

They were the 3 who were They were the 3 who were to confront the negative to confront the negative forces caused by Islamicly forces caused by Islamicly weak persons which weak persons which threatened to undermine threatened to undermine Islam:  Be it during Ali's Islam:  Be it during Ali's Khilaafah, Al‑Hasan's Khilaafah, Al‑Hasan's acceptance of peaceful acceptance of peaceful terms, or the events leading terms, or the events leading to the explosive but to the explosive but anticipated Karbala as led anticipated Karbala as led

by Al‑Husain.by Al‑Husain.

The 3rd of 3 Phases of IslamPHASEPHASE CARRIED OUT BY: CARRIED OUT BY: TASKS CONSISTING  OF:TASKS CONSISTING  OF:

THIRDTHIRD PHASEPHASE

  

Zainul Zainul Abideen and Abideen and the Imams the Imams after him. after him.

Zainul Abideen took on his Zainul Abideen took on his shoulders the heavy task of shoulders the heavy task of teaching the scholars  (the teaching the scholars  (the educational endeavor) once educational endeavor) once the confrontational phase was the confrontational phase was over.  This culminated by over.  This culminated by establishing the Islamic establishing the Islamic Institute  (Institute of Ahlul Institute  (Institute of Ahlul Bayt).  The main source of Bayt).  The main source of information was information was the Corpus of the Corpus of KnowledgeKnowledge Imam Ali left.  The Imam Ali left.  The Institute was to expand and Institute was to expand and flourish by later Imams.flourish by later Imams.

Al-Baaqir in his ThirtiesAl-Baaqir in his Thirties

Zainul Abideen and Al‑Baaqir shun politics Zainul Abideen and Al‑Baaqir shun politics completelycompletely

They held the contemporary rulers and their They held the contemporary rulers and their administration as not valid nor legitimate. administration as not valid nor legitimate.

They saw Islam was violated in the name of They saw Islam was violated in the name of IslamIslam

Therefore, they raced against time to deliver to the Therefore, they raced against time to deliver to the people as much Islamic knowledge as possible.people as much Islamic knowledge as possible.

Medina became an intellectual center of learningMedina became an intellectual center of learningAs a result, the Piety‑minded community evolvedAs a result, the Piety‑minded community evolvedWhen Zainul Abideen died Al‑Baaqir’s Imamah When Zainul Abideen died Al‑Baaqir’s Imamah started at the age of 38 yearsstarted at the age of 38 years

Al-Baaqir’s AdmonitionsAl-Baaqir’s Admonitions

Al-Baaqir's admonitions created a spiritual sensation among the Al-Baaqir's admonitions created a spiritual sensation among the Muslims in general. Muslims in general. He was not only hospitable even to his worst enemies but also He was not only hospitable even to his worst enemies but also used to continually exhort them to the right path. used to continually exhort them to the right path. He urged people to earn their livelihood by their own hard work.He urged people to earn their livelihood by their own hard work.He gave much importance to convening Majlis (meetings) in He gave much importance to convening Majlis (meetings) in commemoration of the martyrdom of Al-Husain. commemoration of the martyrdom of Al-Husain. Kumayl ibn Zayd al-Asadi, a famous and highly talented poet of Kumayl ibn Zayd al-Asadi, a famous and highly talented poet of that time, used to recite the eulogy of Imam Husain in those that time, used to recite the eulogy of Imam Husain in those Majlis.Majlis.Such type of Majlis were also greatly encouraged by Imam Ja'far Such type of Majlis were also greatly encouraged by Imam Ja'far as-Saadiq and Imam Ali al-Ridha,as-Saadiq and Imam Ali al-Ridha,

During Al-Baaqir’s ImamahDuring Al-Baaqir’s Imamah

1.1. The institute of Ahlul Bayt grows substantiallyThe institute of Ahlul Bayt grows substantiallya.a. Up to 300 scholars graduate over a period of 18 yearsUp to 300 scholars graduate over a period of 18 yearsb.b. Graduates write about 100 booksGraduates write about 100 books

2.2. Al‑Baaqir himself wrote the book of Tafseer, in Al‑Baaqir himself wrote the book of Tafseer, in which he registered numerous Hadiths.which he registered numerous Hadiths.

3.3. Numerous knowledge seekers traveled from far Numerous knowledge seekers traveled from far away (and lived in Medina) to attend Al-Baaqir’s away (and lived in Medina) to attend Al-Baaqir’s discoursesdiscourses

4.4. He argued with the Kharijis (deviators) and He argued with the Kharijis (deviators) and Ghulaat (exaggerationists). Ghulaat (exaggerationists).

The Institute graduatesThe Institute graduatesEducational works of Al-Baaqir versus Zainul AbideenEducational works of Al-Baaqir versus Zainul Abideen

During Al-Baaqir’s time, During Al-Baaqir’s time, 300 Scholars graduated.300 Scholars graduated.The 300 Scholars wrote The 300 Scholars wrote 100 books100 booksDuring Zainul Abideen’s During Zainul Abideen’s time 160 Scholars time 160 Scholars graduatedgraduatedThe graph on the right The graph on the right shows relative numbersshows relative numbersThis is remarkable, since This is remarkable, since it was in spite of the it was in spite of the heavy political pressure heavy political pressure on Ahlul Bayton Ahlul Bayt 0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

At First Early days Middle Final period

Zainul Abideen Al-Baaqir

The subjects Al-Baaqir taughtThe subjects Al-Baaqir taught

1.1. TafseerTafseer of the Holy Quran. of the Holy Quran.2.2. Hadith,Hadith, as quoted by each Imam from his father, up to as quoted by each Imam from his father, up to

Ali, then Muhammad (pbuh).Ali, then Muhammad (pbuh).3.3. Al‑Ah'kaam,Al‑Ah'kaam, which grew with time, since new religious which grew with time, since new religious

problems were to be solved according to the Shari'ah.problems were to be solved according to the Shari'ah.4.4. Fiqh,Fiqh, as diversified due to the Ij'tihaad of the as diversified due to the Ij'tihaad of the

Jurisprudents.Jurisprudents.5.5. Halal and Haram,Halal and Haram,6.6. Ethics, Mu'aamalaatEthics, Mu'aamalaat, among other important Islamic , among other important Islamic

subjects.subjects.7.7. Irfan Irfan (Islamic theological philosophy).(Islamic theological philosophy).8.8. Adab: Adab: High forms of literature.High forms of literature.

Regions of Religious Movements at the Time of Al-BaaqirRegions of Religious Movements at the Time of Al-Baaqir

IN MEDINAIN MEDINAAhlul BaytAhlul Bayt

Ibn AbbasIbn Abbas

Ibn OmarIbn Omar

IN SYRIAIN SYRIAJabriahJabriah

QadariyahQadariyah

Jama’ahJama’ah

IN KUFAIN KUFAMurji'ahMurji'ah

KharijiKhariji

Shi'aShi'a

IN EGYPTIN EGYPT1.1.Ibn AbbasIbn Abbas

2.2.Ibn OmarIbn Omar

IN BASRAHIN BASRAHMurji'ahMurji'ah

Mu'tazilaMu'tazila

KharijiKhariji

IN KHURASANIN KHURASANShi'aShi'a

Jama’ahJama’ah

Jah'miyyah  Jah'miyyah  

Select Sayings of Al‑BaaqirSelect Sayings of Al‑Baaqir

When two believers meet and shake hands, Allah will place When two believers meet and shake hands, Allah will place his hand with them, favoring the one who loves his brother his hand with them, favoring the one who loves his brother the most.the most.When you meet each other start with greetings of peace and When you meet each other start with greetings of peace and shake hands, and when you part, do so with entreating shake hands, and when you part, do so with entreating Allah’s forgiveness.Allah’s forgiveness.The good deed rewarded promptly by Allah is when you The good deed rewarded promptly by Allah is when you keep communicating with relatives in gracious manner.keep communicating with relatives in gracious manner.Imam Al‑Baaqir said: "My father, Imam Ali Ibn Al‑Husain Imam Al‑Baaqir said: "My father, Imam Ali Ibn Al‑Husain used to tell his children to avoid big and small lies in used to tell his children to avoid big and small lies in earnestness or in jest; for he who tells small lies will soon earnestness or in jest; for he who tells small lies will soon have the audacity to tell big ones."have the audacity to tell big ones."

Al-Baaqir describing his devoteesAl-Baaqir describing his devotees

"By Allah our Shi'a are they who obey "By Allah our Shi'a are they who obey Allah, are pious, and upright.Allah, are pious, and upright.

Our Shi'a are recognized for their Our Shi'a are recognized for their modesty, humility, excessive worship, modesty, humility, excessive worship, frequent offering of Salat, observance frequent offering of Salat, observance of fast, and they honor their parents.of fast, and they honor their parents.

Our Shi'a care for neighbors, the Our Shi'a care for neighbors, the disadvantaged, the needy, the disadvantaged, the needy, the indebted, and the orphans,indebted, and the orphans,

Our Shi'a always speak the truth, recite Our Shi'a always speak the truth, recite the Holy Quran, hold their tongue the Holy Quran, hold their tongue against speaking ill of others, andagainst speaking ill of others, and

Our Shi'a are trustworthy in all matters of Our Shi'a are trustworthy in all matters of social and spiritual relationship.social and spiritual relationship.

من I إال شيعتنا ما من والله I إال شيعتنا ما واللهالله الله إتقى وما وما   وأطاعهوأطاعه إتقى

بالتواضع I إال فون عر� ي بالتواضع كانوا I إال فون عر� ي كانواأألمانة وأداء أألمانة والتخشع وأداء والتخشع

الله ذ�كر الله وكثرة� ذ�كر وكثرة�

والبر? والصالة والبر? والصوم والصالة والصومالجيران وتعه7د الجيران بالوالدين وتعه7د بالوالدين

وذوي الفقراء وذوي من� الفقراء من�والغارمين كنة� والغارمين الم�س� كنة� الم�س�

واأليتامواأليتام

وتالوة الحديث وتالوة وص�دق الحديث وص�دقعن األلسن وكف? عن القرآن األلسن وكف? القرآن

خير من إال خير الناس من إال الناس

Imam Al‑Baaqir diesImam Al‑Baaqir dies

Just as the case with Zainul Abideen and Al‑Husain, Just as the case with Zainul Abideen and Al‑Husain, Imam Al‑Baaqir died at the age of 57 years.Imam Al‑Baaqir died at the age of 57 years.His death was mourned by numerous peopleHis death was mourned by numerous peopleAl‑Baaqir designated his son, Al‑Saadiq, as the Al‑Baaqir designated his son, Al‑Saadiq, as the subsequent Imamsubsequent ImamHe gave him a will containing a treasure of wisdomHe gave him a will containing a treasure of wisdomHe handed him the books constituting the Corpus of He handed him the books constituting the Corpus of Knowledge which Imam Ali had previously written.Knowledge which Imam Ali had previously written.Imam Al‑Baaqir was buried in Al‑Baqii, by the burial site Imam Al‑Baaqir was buried in Al‑Baqii, by the burial site of Imam Al‑Hasan and Imam Zainul Abideen. of Imam Al‑Hasan and Imam Zainul Abideen. 

Picture of Al-Baqii Before & After 1925

Al-Baqii after it was destroyedAl-Baqii after it was destroyed Al-Baqii before 1925Al-Baqii before 1925

In ConclusionIn Conclusion

Discussed were happenings during every decade of Al-Baaqir's lifetime:Al-Baaqir was witness to:

much social upheavalsneed for streamlining Islamic educationGovernment’s extensive use of undercover agents, and imposing its power, leading to devastating developmentsconstruction of numerous Masjids notably Masjid Al-Haram, Al-Aqsa, and expansion of al-Masjid al-NabawiTerritorial expansion including Spain

Be in Allah’s CareBe in Allah’s Care

Thank you and May God Bless you.Thank you and May God Bless you.

Dr. A.S. HashimDr. A.S. Hashim