Saheefah-e-Razaviyyah

Imam Ali Ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.)  With Translation and Transliteration

Compiled by : Ayatullah Sayyed Murtaza Mujtahedi Seestani

Translated by :Jafari Propagation Centre

Another Version click here

Index

Dedication. PAGEREF _Toc419707007 \h 20

Foreword. PAGEREF _Toc419707008 \h 21

Translator’s Note. PAGEREF _Toc419707009 \h 22

Eight Surahs of Holy Quran. PAGEREF _Toc419707010 \h 25

Surah Yaaseen. PAGEREF _Toc419707011 \h 25

Surah Rahmaan. PAGEREF _Toc419707012 \h 35

Surah Insaan (Dahr) PAGEREF _Toc419707013 \h 42

Surah Qadr. PAGEREF _Toc419707014 \h 46

Surah Zilzaal (Zalzalah) PAGEREF _Toc419707015 \h 47

Surah A’adeyaat PAGEREF _Toc419707016 \h 48

Surah Nasr. PAGEREF _Toc419707017 \h 48

Surah Kaaferoon. PAGEREF _Toc419707018 \h 49

Preface. PAGEREF _Toc419707019 \h 50

Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) as per numerical context. PAGEREF _Toc419707020 \h 50

Two Ziyaraat and Two Shrines. PAGEREF _Toc419707021 \h 50

Three items of natural growth (Mawaalid-e-Salaasah) PAGEREF _Toc419707022 \h 51

Four corners of the shrine. PAGEREF _Toc419707023 \h 52

Five Treasures of Human Being. PAGEREF _Toc419707024 \h 52

Superior than a Royal Palace. PAGEREF _Toc419707025 \h 53

Seventh Qiblah. PAGEREF _Toc419707026 \h 54

Eighth Imam.. PAGEREF _Toc419707027 \h 54

Nine Skies. PAGEREF _Toc419707028 \h 55

Tenth Infallible. PAGEREF _Toc419707029 \h 55

Eleven Luminous Stars. PAGEREF _Toc419707030 \h 55

Twelfth Imam.. PAGEREF _Toc419707031 \h 55

Thirteen Times Guidance and Blessings. PAGEREF _Toc419707032 \h 56

Fourteen Infallible Imams (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707033 \h 56

Etiquette of Ziyaarat of the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707034 \h 57

Some other guidelines. PAGEREF _Toc419707035 \h 61

Discourse of Imam Reza (a.s.) about the breach of promise of enemies of Ahlul Bait (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707036 \h 61

Bomb Explosion In The Shrine Of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707037 \h 62

Do You Recognise the Bombarders of the Holy Shrine. PAGEREF _Toc419707038 \h 63

The Guidelines of Imam Reza (a.s.) in Respect of Recognising the People. PAGEREF _Toc419707039 \h 68

Hypocrite Friend. PAGEREF _Toc419707040 \h 70

The grandeur of the Holy Shrine in the discourses of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707041 \h 70

Resorting to Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707042 \h 72

Excellence of Praying in the Shrines of Infallible Imams (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707043 \h 73

Excellence of Najaf, Karbala and Toos (Mashhad) PAGEREF _Toc419707044 \h 73

Supplication Inside the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707045 \h 74

Eight Traditions Narrated by Infallible Imams (a.s.) about the Rewards of Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707046 \h 75

Eighth traditions from Imam Reza (a.s.) about the Rewards of Visiting his Shrine. PAGEREF _Toc419707047 \h 79

Whose Pilgrimage will be Accepted?. PAGEREF _Toc419707048 \h 84

Morality and Character of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707049 \h 87

Gift of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707050 \h 88

Imam Reza (a.s.)’s Lesson for the Needy and Prudence for the Wealthy. PAGEREF _Toc419707051 \h 89

Greeting and Message of Imam Reza (a.s.) for his Friends. PAGEREF _Toc419707052 \h 90

Servants of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707053 \h 91

A Faithful Child in the presence of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707054 \h 92

Important Points from the tradition. PAGEREF _Toc419707055 \h 93

An Important Ethical Discussion. PAGEREF _Toc419707056 \h 94

The Death of Lonliness is Better or Collective Life?. PAGEREF _Toc419707057 \h 95

Poems of De’bal for Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707058 \h 96

First Couplet PAGEREF _Toc419707059 \h 96

Second Couplet PAGEREF _Toc419707060 \h 97

Weeping of Imam Reza (a.s.) for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707061 \h 97

Weeping of Imam Reza (a.s.) and the residents of the Earth and the Sky for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707062 \h 99

Supplication of Imam Reza (a.s.) for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707063 \h 99

Command of Imam Reza (a.s.) for praying for Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707064 \h 100

Two common specialties between Imam Reza (a.s.) and Imam Zamana (a.t.f.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707065 \h 103

(1) Discussion on establishing proofs and logical reasons. PAGEREF _Toc419707066 \h 103

(1) Establishment of proofs and logical reasons by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707067 \h 104

One more instance of discussion of Imam Reza (a.s.) with elderly scholars of that time  PAGEREF _Toc419707068 \h 108

(1) Establishment of logic and reasoning of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707069 \h 116

(2) Elegance and Grace. PAGEREF _Toc419707070 \h 117

(1) Graces and favours of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707071 \h 117

Imam Reza (a.s.) and the dead body of a Shia. PAGEREF _Toc419707072 \h 117

A sinner youngster but lover of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707073 \h 118

(2) Grace and favours of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707074 \h 119

A very important event PAGEREF _Toc419707075 \h 120

Kindness of Imam Reza (a) and Imam Mahdi (a) upon two Christian youth. PAGEREF _Toc419707076 \h 120

Chapter 1. PAGEREF _Toc419707077 \h 126

Eight Salaats of Ziyaarat (Pilgrimage) PAGEREF _Toc419707078 \h 126

1. First Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707079 \h 126

2. Second Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707080 \h 126

3. Third Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707081 \h 126

4. Fourth Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707082 \h 126

5. Fifth Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707083 \h 127

6. Sixth Salaat – Salaat of Ziyaarat in case of Deputing Some Person. PAGEREF _Toc419707084 \h 128

7. Seventh Salaat – Salaat of Ziyaarat in case of Deputing any Particular Person. PAGEREF _Toc419707085 \h 128

8. Eighth Salaat – Salaat of Ziyaarat in the Journey on Deputation. PAGEREF _Toc419707086 \h 129

Chapter 2. PAGEREF _Toc419707087 \h 130

Eight Salaats of Need (حَاجَتْ) PAGEREF _Toc419707088 \h 130

1. Salaat of Need in the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707089 \h 130

2. Salaat of Need or Salaat of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) as Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707090 \h 130

3. Salaat of Haajat as narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707091 \h 131

4. Another Salaat of Need – Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707092 \h 133

5. Another Salaat of Haajat – Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707093 \h 134

6. Salaat of Need to be Offered on Friday – Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707094 \h 135

7. Another Salaat of Need to be performed on Fridays. PAGEREF _Toc419707095 \h 136

8. Salaat of Haajat – Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) (For Marriage) PAGEREF _Toc419707096 \h 137

Chapter 3. PAGEREF _Toc419707097 \h 138

Eight Salaat narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707098 \h 138

(1) Salaat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707099 \h 138

(2) Another Narration of Salaat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707100 \h 138

(3) Another Version of Salaat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707101 \h 138

(4) Salaat of Istekharah (Seeking the Best) PAGEREF _Toc419707102 \h 139

(5) Another Method of Salaat of Istekharah. PAGEREF _Toc419707103 \h 139

(6) Salaat of Istisqa (Salaat for Rain) PAGEREF _Toc419707104 \h 140

(7) Salaat When Travelling. PAGEREF _Toc419707105 \h 141

(8) Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707106 \h 141

Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar in the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707107 \h 143

Chapter 4. PAGEREF _Toc419707108 \h 146

Eight Traditions of Imam Reza (a.s.) about the Salaats of Special Days. PAGEREF _Toc419707109 \h 146

(1) Salaat of Night and Day of Friday. PAGEREF _Toc419707110 \h 146

(2) Rituals of Friday. PAGEREF _Toc419707111 \h 146

(3) Ritual and Obligatory Zohr Salaat on Friday. PAGEREF _Toc419707112 \h 146

(4) Salaats of Friday and Two Eids. PAGEREF _Toc419707113 \h 147

(5) Salaat of 15^th Shabaan. PAGEREF _Toc419707114 \h 147

(6) Salaat of the Sixth Day of the Month of Ramazan. PAGEREF _Toc419707115 \h 148

(7) Salaat of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) in the Month of Ramazan. PAGEREF _Toc419707116 \h 148

(8) Salaat and Suppplication of 1^st Muharram.. PAGEREF _Toc419707117 \h 149

Reason Concerning the Commandment of Obligatory Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707118 \h 152

Reason Concerning the Units of Obligatory Salaats. PAGEREF _Toc419707119 \h 153

Reason Behind the Number of Takbirs at the Beginning of the Obligatory Prayers. PAGEREF _Toc419707120 \h 154

Reason Behind Reciting Surah Hamd and Tasbeehaat-e-Arba’ in Obligatory Prayer  PAGEREF _Toc419707121 \h 154

Reasons Behind the Recitals of Rukoo and Sujood. PAGEREF _Toc419707122 \h 154

Reasons of the Numbers of Rukoo and Sujood. PAGEREF _Toc419707123 \h 155

Reason Behind Takbirs in the Prayer for Dead. PAGEREF _Toc419707124 \h 155

Reason Behind the Obligatory and Supererogatory Prayers. PAGEREF _Toc419707125 \h 156

Chapter 5. PAGEREF _Toc419707126 \h 157

Eight Supplications in the Qunoot of Salaats. PAGEREF _Toc419707127 \h 157

(1) A Supplication in the Qunoot of Salaats. PAGEREF _Toc419707128 \h 157

(2) Another Supplication in the Qunoot in Salaats. PAGEREF _Toc419707129 \h 158

(3) Qunoot of Imam Reza (a.s.) in Friday Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707130 \h 158

(4) Qunoot in the Salaats of Two Eids. PAGEREF _Toc419707131 \h 159

(5) Supplication of Seeking Forgiveness in the Qunoot of Salaat of Watr. PAGEREF _Toc419707132 \h 160

(6) Supplication in the Qunoot of Salaat of Watr. PAGEREF _Toc419707133 \h 161

(7) Qunoot of Imam Reza (a.s.) for Salvation from Hardships and the Mischiefs of Tyrants  PAGEREF _Toc419707134 \h 161

(8) Qunoot in the Salaat of Lunar Eclipse. PAGEREF _Toc419707135 \h 164

Chapter 6. PAGEREF _Toc419707136 \h 165

Eight Supplications after Salaats. PAGEREF _Toc419707137 \h 165

(1) Supplication After Morning Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707138 \h 165

(2) Supplication for Abundance of Sustenance after every Obligatory Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707139 \h 166

(3) Recitation of ‘YAA RAHMAANO YAA RAHEEMO’ after Every Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707140 \h 168

(4) Supplication to be Recited After Morning Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707141 \h 168

(5) Another Supplication After Morning Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707142 \h 168

(6) Supplication After Fajr and Maghrib Salaats. PAGEREF _Toc419707143 \h 169

(7) Supplication to be Recited after Asr Prayer. PAGEREF _Toc419707144 \h 169

(8) Another Supplication After Asr Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707145 \h 169

Chapter 7. PAGEREF _Toc419707146 \h 171

Eight Supplications after Recommended Salaats. PAGEREF _Toc419707147 \h 171

(1) Suppliation After Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707148 \h 171

(2) Invocation for Relief After Salaat of Need. PAGEREF _Toc419707149 \h 172

(3) Supplication of Imam Reza (a.s.) After Eight Rak’ats of Salaat al-Layl PAGEREF _Toc419707150 \h 189

(4) Supplication After the Salaat at ‘Maqaam-e-Jibraeel (a.s.)’ PAGEREF _Toc419707151 \h 190

(5) Supplication After Salaat of Ziyaarat Performed on Behalf of Someone. PAGEREF _Toc419707152 \h 191

(6) Supplication After Salaat of Ziyaarat Performed by an Appointed Person. PAGEREF _Toc419707153 \h 192

(7) Supplication After Salaat of Ziyaarat During a Journey on Deputation. PAGEREF _Toc419707154 \h 192

(8) Supplication After Salaat of Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a) on 25^th Zilqad. PAGEREF _Toc419707155 \h 193

Chapter 8. PAGEREF _Toc419707156 \h 194

Eight Supplications Recited in Prostration. PAGEREF _Toc419707157 \h 194

(1) Supplication of ‘Seeking Goodness’ in Prostration. PAGEREF _Toc419707158 \h 194

(2) Supplication Recited in Prostaton After Salaat al-Zohr. PAGEREF _Toc419707159 \h 194

(3) Supplication of Prostration of Gratitude. PAGEREF _Toc419707160 \h 195

(4) Another Supplication of Prostration of Gratituide. PAGEREF _Toc419707161 \h 195

(5) Supplication of Imam Reza (a.s.) in Prostration. PAGEREF _Toc419707162 \h 196

(6) Supplication in the Prostration of Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707163 \h 197

(7) Supplication in ‘Prostration of Omission’ (سَجْدَةُ السَّهْو) PAGEREF _Toc419707164 \h 198

(8) Supplication in Prostration at the Time of Distress. PAGEREF _Toc419707165 \h 198

Chapter 9. PAGEREF _Toc419707166 \h 200

Eight Supplications to be Recited Everyday. PAGEREF _Toc419707167 \h 200

(1) Important Supplication for ‘Discharging the Rights of Allah’ PAGEREF _Toc419707168 \h 200

(2) Supplication During the Period of Occultation as Advised by Imam Reza (a) PAGEREF _Toc419707169 \h 201

Another Supplication During The Period Of Occultation. PAGEREF _Toc419707170 \h 207

(3) Supplication to be Resurrected With Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707171 \h 218

(4) Supplication to be Resurrected With Ahlulbait (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707172 \h 218

(5) Supplication Seeking Forgiveness – While Listening Azan of Morning and Maghrib  PAGEREF _Toc419707173 \h 219

(6) Supplication Recited Everyday Between Iqamah And Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707174 \h 219

(7) Supplication for the Eighth Hour Daily. PAGEREF _Toc419707175 \h 220

(8) Another Supplication at the Eighth Hour. PAGEREF _Toc419707176 \h 221

Chapter 10. PAGEREF _Toc419707177 \h 224

Eight Divine Acts of the Week. PAGEREF _Toc419707178 \h 224

(1) Salaat of Gift to be Performed on Sunday for Imam Raza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707179 \h 224

(2) Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) on Wednesday. PAGEREF _Toc419707180 \h 225

(3) Another Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) on Wednesday. PAGEREF _Toc419707181 \h 226

(4) Solicitation for Thursday. PAGEREF _Toc419707182 \h 228

(5) Supplication after Major Ablution (Ghusl) on Friday. PAGEREF _Toc419707183 \h 229

(6) Supplication of Imam Reza (a.s.) for Friday. PAGEREF _Toc419707184 \h 229

(7) Recitation of Salutation (salawat) a Hundred Times on Friday. PAGEREF _Toc419707185 \h 230

(8) Salawat (Salutation) at the Time of Asr on Friday. PAGEREF _Toc419707186 \h 231

Permissibility of Reciting Couplets on Friday Night and in the Month of Ramazan. PAGEREF _Toc419707187 \h 231

Chapter 11. PAGEREF _Toc419707188 \h 233

Eight Months and Their Rituals. PAGEREF _Toc419707189 \h 233

(1) Holy Month of Ramazan. PAGEREF _Toc419707190 \h 233

Sermon Delivered by the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) About the Holy Month of Ramazan  PAGEREF _Toc419707191 \h 233

Excellence of the Month of Ramazan in the Narrations of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707192 \h 236

An Important Supplication Of Sahr (dawn) In The Month Of Ramazan. PAGEREF _Toc419707193 \h 236

A Discussion Regarding his (a.s.) Vicegerency. PAGEREF _Toc419707194 \h 241

Imam Reza (a.s.) on 6th Day of the Month of Ramazan. PAGEREF _Toc419707195 \h 241

A Supplication of Imam Reza (a.s.) at the Time of his Vicegerency. PAGEREF _Toc419707196 \h 243

15^th of the Month of Ramazan. PAGEREF _Toc419707197 \h 245

Excellence of Night of Power (Shab-e-Qadr) PAGEREF _Toc419707198 \h 247

(2) The Month Of Shawwal PAGEREF _Toc419707199 \h 248

Rituals to be Done on Eid al-Fitr. PAGEREF _Toc419707200 \h 248

Imam Reza (a.s.) proceeds to perform Eid Prayer. PAGEREF _Toc419707201 \h 249

(3) Month of Zilqad. PAGEREF _Toc419707202 \h 252

Birth Of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707203 \h 252

Sixth and Twenty-Third Day of Zilqad. PAGEREF _Toc419707204 \h 254

Visiting the Shrine pf Imam Reza (a.s.) On 23^rd Zilqad. PAGEREF _Toc419707205 \h 254

Excellence of 25^th Zilqad. PAGEREF _Toc419707206 \h 255

Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) on 25^th Zilqad. PAGEREF _Toc419707207 \h 255

(3) Month Of Zilhajj PAGEREF _Toc419707208 \h 257

Salaat Of Eid al-Azha. PAGEREF _Toc419707209 \h 258

Excellence of the Day of Eid-e-Ghadeer. PAGEREF _Toc419707210 \h 259

Discourse of Imam Reza (a.s.) about the Sermon of Imam Ali (a.s.) on the Day of Ghadeer  PAGEREF _Toc419707211 \h 261

(5) The Month of Moharram.. PAGEREF _Toc419707212 \h 272

Discourse of Imam Reza (a.s.) regarding Ashooraa. PAGEREF _Toc419707213 \h 272

The Day of Aashooraa. PAGEREF _Toc419707214 \h 274

Curse on Yazeed (l.a.) and his Followers. PAGEREF _Toc419707215 \h 275

Supplication of Hazrat Faatemah Zahra (s.a.) On the Day of Judgement PAGEREF _Toc419707216 \h 276

(6) The Month of Safar. PAGEREF _Toc419707217 \h 277

Pilgrimage of Imam Reza (a.s.) on the Day of his Martyrdom.. PAGEREF _Toc419707218 \h 277

Circumstances Under Which Imam Reza (a.s.) was Matyred and Buried. PAGEREF _Toc419707219 \h 277

Another Narration About the Martyrdom of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707220 \h 282

(7) Month of Rajab. PAGEREF _Toc419707221 \h 290

Reward of Fasting in the Month of Rajab. PAGEREF _Toc419707222 \h 290

Reward of Visiting the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) in the Month of Rajab. PAGEREF _Toc419707223 \h 292

Ziyaarat-e-Rajabiyyah – To be recited in the Shrines of Holy Imams (a.s.) in the Month of Rajab  PAGEREF _Toc419707224 \h 293

(8) Month of Shaban. PAGEREF _Toc419707225 \h 295

Reward of Fasting and Seeking Forgiveness in the Month of Shaban. PAGEREF _Toc419707226 \h 295

Reward of Fasting and Charity in the Month of Shaban. PAGEREF _Toc419707227 \h 296

Supplication for Each Day in the Month of Shaban. PAGEREF _Toc419707228 \h 296

Salaat on Night of 15^th of Shaban. PAGEREF _Toc419707229 \h 297

Ziyaarat of Imam Husain (a.s.) on 15^th Rajab and 15^th Shaban. PAGEREF _Toc419707230 \h 297

Supplication for the Last Days of the Month of Shaban. PAGEREF _Toc419707231 \h 298

Chapter 12. PAGEREF _Toc419707232 \h 299

Eight Supplications for Safety from Worries and Troubles. PAGEREF _Toc419707233 \h 299

(1) Supplication to be Attentive Towards Allah and Protecting Oneself in the Market PAGEREF _Toc419707234 \h 299

(2) Supplication for the Protection from Different Troubles. PAGEREF _Toc419707235 \h 299

(3) Supplication for Protection from Troubles in Journey. PAGEREF _Toc419707236 \h 300

(4) Supplication from Imam Reza (a.s.) for Remaining Protected During Journey. PAGEREF _Toc419707237 \h 300

(5) Supplication while Leaving the House for the Protection from Troubles. PAGEREF _Toc419707238 \h 302

(6) Another Supplication while Leaving the House. PAGEREF _Toc419707239 \h 302

(7) Supplication for Protection in the Night PAGEREF _Toc419707240 \h 303

(8) Tasbeeh of Janab-e-Faatemah Zahra (s.a.) and Aayatul Kursee for Protection from Troubles  PAGEREF _Toc419707241 \h 304

Chapter 13. PAGEREF _Toc419707242 \h 306

Eight Supplications for Getting Deliverance from Hardships. PAGEREF _Toc419707243 \h 306

(1) Supplication for Getting Deliverence from Hardships. PAGEREF _Toc419707244 \h 306

(2) Supplication for the Time of Extreme Tribulations. PAGEREF _Toc419707245 \h 313

(3) Supplication for Deliverance from Every Pain and Disease. PAGEREF _Toc419707246 \h 313

(4) Another Invocation for Deliverance from Each Pain and Disease. PAGEREF _Toc419707247 \h 313

(5) Supplication for Relief from Eye Corrosion. PAGEREF _Toc419707248 \h 314

(6) Supplication for Waiving Out Magic and Sorcery. PAGEREF _Toc419707249 \h 314

(7) Supplication for Cure from Fever. PAGEREF _Toc419707250 \h 314

(8) Supplication for Finding Missing Thing. PAGEREF _Toc419707251 \h 315

Chapter 14. PAGEREF _Toc419707252 \h 317

Eight Supplications for Deliverance from Mischief of a Tyrant PAGEREF _Toc419707253 \h 317

(1) Supplication Against the Enemy. PAGEREF _Toc419707254 \h 317

(2) Supplication for Overcoming Enemy and Other Difficulties. PAGEREF _Toc419707255 \h 317

(3) Supplication for Safety from Enemy and his Mischief PAGEREF _Toc419707256 \h 318

(4) Supplication for Safety from Visiting Mischevious Person. PAGEREF _Toc419707257 \h 319

(5) Supplication for Safety from Mischief of Tyrant PAGEREF _Toc419707258 \h 320

(6) Another Supplication for Safety from Mischief of Tyrant PAGEREF _Toc419707259 \h 321

(7) Supplication for Defeating the Enemy and Resolving Problems. PAGEREF _Toc419707260 \h 323

(8) Supplication to Overcome the Enemy. PAGEREF _Toc419707261 \h 324

Chapter 15. PAGEREF _Toc419707262 \h 325

Eight Amulets Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707263 \h 325

(1) Amulet or Paper In Pocket (رُقْعَةُ الْجَيْب) of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707264 \h 325

(2) Another Amulet by the Name of ‘Ruqah al-Jaib’ PAGEREF _Toc419707265 \h 327

(3) Another Amulet by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707266 \h 330

(4) Amulet of Imam Reza (a.s.) for Relief from Diseases. PAGEREF _Toc419707267 \h 330

(5) Another Amulet of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707268 \h 331

(6) Amulet of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707269 \h 345

(7) Another Amulet of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707270 \h 346

(8) Amulet for Protection from Evil of Enemies of Ahlebait (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707271 \h 350

Chapter 16. PAGEREF _Toc419707272 \h 354

Eight Supplications for Delivarence from Eight Diseases. PAGEREF _Toc419707273 \h 354

(1) For the Pain of Eyes. PAGEREF _Toc419707274 \h 354

(2) Supplication for Getting Relief from Epilepsy. PAGEREF _Toc419707275 \h 354

(3) Supplication for Getting Relief from Headache. PAGEREF _Toc419707276 \h 354

(4) Supplication for Tuberculosis. PAGEREF _Toc419707277 \h 355

(5) Supplication for Getting Relief from the Disease and for Having a Son. PAGEREF _Toc419707278 \h 355

(6) Supplication for Warts. PAGEREF _Toc419707279 \h 355

(7) Supplication for Curing Piles. PAGEREF _Toc419707280 \h 356

(8) Supplication for Elimination of Scrofula. PAGEREF _Toc419707281 \h 356

Chapter 17. PAGEREF _Toc419707282 \h 358

Eight Supplications for Increase in Sustenance and Elimination of Poverty. PAGEREF _Toc419707283 \h 358

(1) Supplication for Sustenance. PAGEREF _Toc419707284 \h 358

(2) Supplication upon Arrival of Blessing, Scarcity of Sustenance, Sorrow and Trouble  PAGEREF _Toc419707285 \h 358

(3) Supplication for Seeking Sustenance. PAGEREF _Toc419707286 \h 359

(4) Repeating Azan for Delivarance from Distress. PAGEREF _Toc419707287 \h 359

(5) Supplication for Blessing in Livelihood. PAGEREF _Toc419707288 \h 360

(6) Supplication to be Recited Daily for Deliverance from Poverty. PAGEREF _Toc419707289 \h 360

(7) Supplication for the Safety of Purchased Goods. PAGEREF _Toc419707290 \h 360

(8) Supplication for Safety of Goods from Destruction. PAGEREF _Toc419707291 \h 361

Chapter 18. PAGEREF _Toc419707292 \h 363

Eight Important Supplications Recited by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707293 \h 363

(1) Dua-e-Tawheed. PAGEREF _Toc419707294 \h 363

(2) An Important Supplication about the Magnificience of Allah (s.w.t.) PAGEREF _Toc419707295 \h 364

(3) Another Important Supplication Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707296 \h 365

(4) Supplication for Glorification and Gratitude. PAGEREF _Toc419707297 \h 368

(5) Supplication for Safety and Better End. PAGEREF _Toc419707298 \h 369

(6) Supplication of Almighty Allah’s Transendence. PAGEREF _Toc419707299 \h 370

(7) Important Salawat (Salutation) of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707300 \h 370

(8) Important Supplication of Imam Reza (a.s.) for Cursing. PAGEREF _Toc419707301 \h 372

Chapter 19. PAGEREF _Toc419707302 \h 376

Eight Important Supplications Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707303 \h 376

(1) Important Supplication Recited by Imam Reza (a.s.) and Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707304 \h 376

(2) Important Supplication Glorifying Almighty Allah. PAGEREF _Toc419707305 \h 391

(3) Dua-e-Sabaah. PAGEREF _Toc419707306 \h 393

(4) Supplication After Dua-e-Sabaah. PAGEREF _Toc419707307 \h 399

(5) Most Important Isteghfaar (Seeking Forgiveness) PAGEREF _Toc419707308 \h 400

(6) Ninety nine names of Allah (s.w.t.) PAGEREF _Toc419707309 \h 411

(7) Important Supplication for Seeking Goodness. PAGEREF _Toc419707310 \h 412

(8) Important Supplication for Delivarance from Fear and Sorrow.. PAGEREF _Toc419707311 \h 414

Chapter 20. PAGEREF _Toc419707312 \h 418

Eight Different Supplications. PAGEREF _Toc419707313 \h 418

(1) Supplication at the Time of Sighting the Moon. PAGEREF _Toc419707314 \h 418

(2) Supplication for the Tenth and Eleventh of Every Month. PAGEREF _Toc419707315 \h 419

(3) Supplication for Safety (عافيت) PAGEREF _Toc419707316 \h 420

(4) Supplication While Drinking Milk or Eating Food. PAGEREF _Toc419707317 \h 420

(5) Supplication at the Time of Happiness. PAGEREF _Toc419707318 \h 420

(6) Supplication at the Time of Worry. PAGEREF _Toc419707319 \h 421

(7) Supplication of Imam Reza (a.s.) after Succesion. PAGEREF _Toc419707320 \h 421

(8) Visiting the Grave of a Believer. PAGEREF _Toc419707321 \h 422

Chapter 21. PAGEREF _Toc419707322 \h 423

Effects and Merits of Eight Chapters (Surahs) of the Holy Quran. PAGEREF _Toc419707323 \h 423

(1) Effects of Surah Hamd for Relief from Headache. PAGEREF _Toc419707324 \h 423

Exegesis of the Verse اَلْـحَمْدُ لِلهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِيْنَ. PAGEREF _Toc419707325 \h 423

(2) Merits of Surah Ana’am.. PAGEREF _Toc419707326 \h 428

(3) Reward of Reciting Surah Yaseen. PAGEREF _Toc419707327 \h 428

(4) Rewards for Reciting Surah Zomar. PAGEREF _Toc419707328 \h 429

(5) Rewards of Reciting Surah Qadr. PAGEREF _Toc419707329 \h 429

Affect of Surah (Qadr) for the Deliverance from the Horror of the Day of Resurrection  PAGEREF _Toc419707330 \h 429

(6) Reward of Reciting Surah Zilzaal PAGEREF _Toc419707331 \h 430

(7) Reward of Reciting Surah Nasr. PAGEREF _Toc419707332 \h 430

(8) Reward of Reciting Surah Tawheed. PAGEREF _Toc419707333 \h 430

Reward of Reciting Surah Tawheed in the Graveyard. PAGEREF _Toc419707334 \h 431

Chapter 22. PAGEREF _Toc419707335 \h 432

Eight Commandments About Some Verses and Surahs. PAGEREF _Toc419707336 \h 432

(1) Reward of Reciting Aayatul Kursee. PAGEREF _Toc419707337 \h 432

(2) Reciting ‘اِنَّ اللهَ يُمْسِكُ’ to Save the House from Destruction. PAGEREF _Toc419707338 \h 432

(3) Three Verses for the Protection from the Faithless Persons. PAGEREF _Toc419707339 \h 432

(4) Reward of Reciting Fifty Verses after Morning Salaat PAGEREF _Toc419707340 \h 434

(5) Recitation of One Hundred Verses for Relief from Fear. PAGEREF _Toc419707341 \h 434

(6) Effects of Recitaion of Three Surahs While Putting on New Dress. PAGEREF _Toc419707342 \h 434

(7) Recitaion of Four Surahs for Safety from Evil eye. PAGEREF _Toc419707343 \h 435

(8) Four Surahs for Headache and Other Pains. PAGEREF _Toc419707344 \h 435

Chapter 23. PAGEREF _Toc419707345 \h 436

Eight Rewards For Some Invocations. PAGEREF _Toc419707346 \h 436

(1) Reward of Salawaat PAGEREF _Toc419707347 \h 436

(2) Another Reward for Salawat PAGEREF _Toc419707348 \h 436

(3) Reward of Saying لَا اِلٰہَ اِلَّا اللہُ (There is no god But Allah) PAGEREF _Toc419707349 \h 437

(4) Another Reward of Saying لَا اِلٰہَ اِلَّا اللہُ.. PAGEREF _Toc419707350 \h 438

(5) Reward of Reciting Tasbeehaat al-Arba’ on Rosary Made from the Clay of Imam Husain (a.s.)’s grave  PAGEREF _Toc419707351 \h 438

(6) Rewards of Five Invocations. PAGEREF _Toc419707352 \h 438

(7) The Effect of Saying يَا عَلِيُّ يَا عَظِيْمُ (The Highest The Magnificent) PAGEREF _Toc419707353 \h 439

(8) Effect of reciting يَا مُمِيْتُ (the annihilator) for Deliverance from Carnal Self PAGEREF _Toc419707354 \h 440

Chapter 24. PAGEREF _Toc419707355 \h 441

Another Eight Important Invocations as Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707356 \h 441

(1) يَا حَیُّ یَا قَیُّوْمُ (O Ever-Living O Ever-Lasting) PAGEREF _Toc419707357 \h 441

(2) يَا مَلِكُ (O Soverign) PAGEREF _Toc419707358 \h 441

(3) يَا حَفِيْظُ (O Guardian) PAGEREF _Toc419707359 \h 441

(4) يَا بَاسِطُ (O Spreader) PAGEREF _Toc419707360 \h 442

(5) يَا فَتَّاحُ (O Opener) PAGEREF _Toc419707361 \h 442

(6) يَا وَدُوْدُ (O Loving) PAGEREF _Toc419707362 \h 442

(7) يَا قُدُّوْسُ (O Holy) PAGEREF _Toc419707363 \h 442

(8) يَا سَلَامُ (O Peace) PAGEREF _Toc419707364 \h 443

Chapter 25. PAGEREF _Toc419707365 \h 444

Eight Traditions Regarding Engravings on Stones of Rings from Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707366 \h 444

(1) Engravings on Stones of the Rings of Prophets and Infallible Imams (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707367 \h 444

(2) Engraving on Stone of the Ring of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707368 \h 447

(3) Another Tradition about the Engraving on the Ring of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707369 \h 447

(4) Engraving on Ring of Imam Reza (a.s.) – Another Tradition. PAGEREF _Toc419707370 \h 448

(5) To Carry Rings of Yellow Agate and Turquoise While on Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707371 \h 448

(6) Engraving a Turquoise Ring for Having Child. PAGEREF _Toc419707372 \h 449

(7) Ring of Agate and Invocation for the Protection from Turbulence of Sky and Earth  PAGEREF _Toc419707373 \h 449

(8) Supplication for the Time of Wearing a Ring. PAGEREF _Toc419707374 \h 450

Chapter 26. PAGEREF _Toc419707375 \h 451

Eight Ziyaarats from the Ziyaarats of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707376 \h 451

Etiquette of Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707377 \h 452

Beginning of Etiquette of Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707378 \h 458

Supplication for Asking Permission for Entering (اِذْنِ دُخُوْل) the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707379 \h 459

(1) First Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707380 \h 461

(2) Another Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707381 \h 473

(3) Third Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707382 \h 477

(4) Ziyaarat-e-Jawaadiyyah or Fourth Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707383 \h 479

(5) Fifth Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707384 \h 494

(6) Sixth Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707385 \h 494

(7) Seventh Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) – Ziyaarat of Seven Tradition. PAGEREF _Toc419707386 \h 503

(8) Eighth ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707387 \h 511

Ziyaarat of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) Inside the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707388 \h 527

Chapter 27. PAGEREF _Toc419707389 \h 528

Eight supplications to be Recited after the Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707390 \h 528

(1) Supplication of Lofty Meanings (دعا عالية المضامين) PAGEREF _Toc419707391 \h 528

(2) Second supplication. PAGEREF _Toc419707392 \h 538

(3) Third supplication. PAGEREF _Toc419707393 \h 540

(4) Fourth supplication. PAGEREF _Toc419707394 \h 541

(5) Fifth supplication. PAGEREF _Toc419707395 \h 545

(6) Sixth supplication. PAGEREF _Toc419707396 \h 548

(7) Seventh supplication. PAGEREF _Toc419707397 \h 549

(8) Supplication to be Recited after the Ziyaarat Performed on Behalf of Any Person  PAGEREF _Toc419707398 \h 598

Chapter 28. PAGEREF _Toc419707399 \h 604

(1) Ziyaarat-e-Ameenullah. PAGEREF _Toc419707400 \h 604

(2) Ziyaarat-e-Jaameah Kabeerah (Major Comprehensive Pilgrimage) PAGEREF _Toc419707401 \h 608

(3) Third Ziyaarat-e-Jaameah. PAGEREF _Toc419707402 \h 626

(4) Fourth Ziyaarat-e-Jaameah. PAGEREF _Toc419707403 \h 659

(5) Fifth Ziyaarat-e-Jaameah. PAGEREF _Toc419707404 \h 684

(6) Sixth Ziyaarat-e-Jaameah. PAGEREF _Toc419707405 \h 704

(7) Seventh Ziyaarat-e-Jaameah. PAGEREF _Toc419707406 \h 706

(8) Eight Ziyaarat-e-Jaameah. PAGEREF _Toc419707407 \h 710

Chapter 29. PAGEREF _Toc419707408 \h 715

Eight Ziyaaraat from Ziyaarat-e-Widaa (Farewell Pilgrimage) PAGEREF _Toc419707409 \h 715

(1) Farewell Ziyaarat to be Recited after Ziyaarat-e-Ameenullah. PAGEREF _Toc419707410 \h 715

(2) Second Farewell Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707411 \h 716

(3) Third Farewell Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707412 \h 719

(4) Fourth Farewell Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707413 \h 727

(5) Fifth Farewell Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707414 \h 734

(6) Sixth Farewell Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707415 \h 735

(7) Seventh Farewell Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707416 \h 738

(8) Eight Farewell Ziyaarat PAGEREF _Toc419707417 \h 738

Chapter 30. PAGEREF _Toc419707418 \h 741

Eight ziyaarat from the ziyaarat of Ahlulbayt (a) as narrated by Imam Reza (a) PAGEREF _Toc419707419 \h 741

(1) Ziyaarat to be Recited in the Holy Shrine of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) PAGEREF _Toc419707420 \h 741

(2) Second Ziyaarat to be Recited in the Shrine of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) PAGEREF _Toc419707421 \h 743

(3) Third Ziyaarat to be Recited in the Shrine of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) PAGEREF _Toc419707422 \h 744

(4) Ziyaarat of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) to be recited after Obligatory Prayers. PAGEREF _Toc419707423 \h 745

(5) Ziyaarat of infallible Imams (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707424 \h 747

(6) Ziyaarat to be Recited while Departing from Any of the Infallible Imam (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707425 \h 754

(7) Ziyaarat of Imam Moosa Kazim (a.s.) and all Infallible Imams (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707426 \h 757

(8) Ziyaarat of Hazrat Faatemah Ma’soomah (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707427 \h 760

Short Discussion of the Dignity and Exaltation of Hazrat Faatemah Ma’soomah (s.a.) PAGEREF _Toc419707428 \h 764

An important point about the intercession of Faatemah Ma’soomah (a.s.) PAGEREF _Toc419707429 \h 765

Bibliography. PAGEREF _Toc419707430 \h 768

Dedication

This work is dedicated to two infallible personalities of the universe who although belonged to women gender but they were declared as spiritual guide and leader who can’t be limited to any land or period. One is known as ‘Umm-e-Abeehaa’ and the other ‘Kareemah-e-Ahl-e-Bait’ – on whose gate of mercy everybody implores with stretched hands:

يَا فَاطِمَةُ اِشْفَعِيْ لِيْ فِيْ الْجَنَّةِ

O Faatemah! Intercede for me, so that I enter Heaven.

Foreword

In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful. And by the help of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

Ja’fari Propagation Centre is glad to translate and publish the book ‘Saheefa-e-Razawiyyah’ in English which is the compilation of supplications and ziyaaraat narrated from Imam Reza (a.s.).

Readers are requested to inform us of any spelling or printing error so that it can be rectified in the coming editions.

Lastly, we pray to Allah (s.w.t.) to give us opportunities to propagate the knowledge of Ahle bait (a.s.) so that they (a.s.) intercede us on the Day of Judgement.

Translator’s Note⁰

All praise be to Allah Who hears all invocations, bestows hope to hearts and perfects His blessings.

Prayer means lamentation, beseech, heart rending sigh, presentation of condition of heart in the Divine Court, recognition of His Magnificent and Grandeur and acceptance of one’s lowliness. Supplication of the one who has got nothing in his possession requests Him Who has got everything. Every person supplicates according to his own style and disposition. Sometimes the prayers are answered and sometimes rejected. Infallible Imams (a.s.) have taught us the reasons behind the invocations which are not answered. Imam Ali ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) says in Dua-e-Kumail:

اَللّٰهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِيَ الذُّنُوْبَ الَّتِيْ تَحْبِسُ الدُّعَاءَ.

O Allah! Forgive me my sins which hold back supplication!

But it is not so that the supplications which are not answered are wasted. No, instead the rewards of the unanswered prayers are kept stored in one’s book of deeds. And when they will see the rewards on the Day of Judgement, they will stretch their hands saying: ‘My Lord! I had not performed these good deeds then why such a great reward?’ Then a Divine Voice will be heard saying, ‘This is the reward of your supplications which were not answered.’ At this stage the person, who was complaining for non-acceptance of his supplication will wish had it so happened that none of his invocations would have been answered.

This is also a blessing of Allah, the High, that He called His sinning servants saying:

اُدْعُوْنِيْ اَسْتَجِبْ لَكُمْ.

“Call upon Me, I will answer you.”⁰

Because the Noble Personage of Almighty Allah is such that He is Merciful upon all the creatures, He is the Provider of sustenance to all the creatures, He is the Master of all the things, Remover of all the miseries and tribulations, Merciful on all, Concealer of all the defects and sins and Provider of peace and tranquillity to every freightened. He is such a Divine Personality that He created humans from dust and blood and then provided the wombs of mother as shelter, who opened treasures of love and affection for them.

O my Lord! I am unable to thank You for Your numerous bounties because Your beneficence are abundant whereas my gratitude is nothing. You are the One Who made me aware of the light of knowledge and guidance after taking me out of darkness of ignorance. You are the One Who made me introduced the Messengers and Prophets, whereas I am the one who falsified them surrounded by infidelity and spuriousness. I would have perished had You not showed Your Mercy upon me. Hence, I beseech You not to hold me accountable for my sins. Due to my sins, I am ashamed before You, so I beseech You that

رَبِّ عَامِلْنَا بِفَضْلِكَ وَ لَا تُعَامِلْنَا بِعَدْلِكَ يَا كَرِيْمُ.

Now the questions arises how to supplicate and what are the conditions of supplication through which they could be answered?

At this point the Muslims of the world had to accept that we would have been dumb and speechless, had there not been the Ahlulbait (a.s.) and the Holy Progeny of the Infallible Imams (a.s.) who guided us how to supplicate. They are the symbols of action during all the ages for the human being and under the shadow of their invocations, sinners and defaulters like us could be able to get the nearness of Allah, the High. The pure and chaste dispositions coming out of their holy tongue have the guarantee for the fulfilment of our supplications.

These are the infallible tongues who taught us the etiquette as how to address the Almighty Allah in the form of ‘Sahifa-e-Sajjadiyah’ and later on in the form of ‘Sahifa-e-Razawiyyah’ of Imam Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.) which are guiding us that there are certain observances and manners which should be followed in order to get the ability of presentation in the Divine Court.

The said book ‘Sahifa-e-Razawiyyah’ is the rare collection of some etiquette, decorum and manners of supplications of invocations which has been authored by Ayatullah Sayed Murtaza Mujtahedi Seestani and I, Irfan Haider, translated it into urdu from Persian language. But this gigantic task could not be done at my own, so first of all I am grateful to my Lord, the High, who awarded me the incentive to do this great work.

I am also thankful to all my friends and relatives who helped me in this noble task. Especially my grand father Haji Khadim Husain Ja’fari Sahab whose guidance helped me a lot in understanding the actual religious knowledge. I can never be able to forget his obligation.

I am also thankful to my parents whose favours and blessings always shadowed me, at the same time to all my teachers, specially Janab Mohammad Juma Asadi and Janab Akbar Husain Zaahedi Sahab. Due to his guidance I could reach at this place and to my brothers Janab Imran Haider Shahid and Ali Asadi whose love and affection always encouraged me a lot.

For publishing this invaluable book, I am thankful to the manager of Jamea’ Imam Sadiq (a.s.) and all the staff of Markaz-e-Tableeghat-o-Taaleemaat, especially manager Mr. Mushtaq Husain Imrani, Adeeb Ali, Amjad Husain, Zeeshan Mahdi, Ali Shah Naqvi, Abdul Hafeez and Mukhtar Husain Rahimi.

Lastly, I pray to Almighty Allah that O Allah! Grant us the ability to recognize our Imam of the time (a.t.f.s.) and to pray for him. Aameen.

And peace is on him who follows the guidance.

Irfan Haider

17^th Rabiul Awwal, 1432 A.H.

Eight Surahs of Holy Quran⁰

Surah Yaaseen

Surah Rahmaan

Surah Insaan (Dahr)

Surah Qadr

Surah Zilzaal (Zalzalah)

Surah A’adeyaat

Surah Nasr

Surah Kaaferoon

Preface

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.

Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) as per numerical context.⁰

Everyday thousands of people in groups get the opportunity of visiting the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) and are blessed by this sanctified mansion. Some of them enter in this glorious court well prepared in advance with sincerety and purity of heart. While some others, who could not achieve this status, start their journey having been affected emotionally with dignity of this holy place and continue their journey so as to reach to a friend of Allah (s.w.t.).

A person can reach to a grand meaningful stage by restraining his heart and make his heart a Divine Abode after entricating it out of all other things and purify it from the love of others so as to reach the place of ‘Reza’ which is the best place of pious-hearted persons. Under this situation he lives the thing which are liked by the Almighty Allah whether it be pain or antidote, union or separation. Not only he should be agreeable with the Almighty Allah’s will but he should be in accordance with whatever He want.

Two Ziyaraat and Two Shrines

Those who acquire this stage it is as if they are reborn because their eyes and ears have opened and they have achieved a new life. And in this way they have got the bliss of this world and the hereafter. Their whole body is illuminated and they have acquired this light from the Holy Progeny of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.). Not only this, but whatever is illuminated it gets its light from the lights of infallible Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). Even the two sources of light (sun and moon) are illuminated from the light of these holy personage. Even the two brothers⁰ shining in the heights of the sky, get their illumination through the gate of this holy progeny.

This holy progeny is the source of light and illumination and when the sovereignty of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) would be established, oppressions and darkness would be extinguished from this world. The days and nights would be illuminated from the light of the Holy Imam of the Age (a.t.f.s.). This holy progeny is not only the source of illumination but it is also the base of every goodness. If all people gather to enumerate the virtues and excellence of these holy personages (a.s.) that would not be more than two couplets.⁰

Now after coming out of the introductions of these holy progeny we will elaborate about two visitations and two shrines. Somebody may be able to visit the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) by dint of his pure heartedness. This is also possible that somebody in order to purify his heart, from the contamination of sins and to extricate the strangers from the shrine of Allah (s.w.t.) in his heart he may be able to visit the light of the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) somewhere outside the shrine. But this is also possible that it may be an observation.

However, as we have said that whoever visits the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) is blessed by his munificence and favours.

Three items of natural growth⁰ (Mawaalid-e-Salaasah)

Not only the human being is aware of the friendship and guardianship of the Holy Progeny of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) but every creature, whether in the heights of the sky or under the layer of the earth is also aware. Even the three natural growing items (i.e. animals, vegetables and minerals) accept this fact. The Holy Ahlul Bait (a.s.), by this point, has presented their friendship and guardianship over all the creatures of the Universe and also stated the knowledge of the minerals, vegetables and animals. Although the scholars of this age have been able to understand about the water and some other things on which they are researching.

Sometimes it so happens that a person visits the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) dressed in legally earned clothes and that dress, with the help of its inanimate discernment, pays more attention towards Imam Reza (a.s.) in comparison with that person who is disturbed in thinking. Is it correct that our dress is more attentive towards the Holy Imam (a.s.) in comparison to ourselves who owns spirit and discernment?

It is correct, that only the selected and chosen personage before Allah, the High, have got this ability and only they can create such circumstances who have divorced this world thrice. But if we could comprehend about the dignity and eminence of Imam Reza (a.s.) before performing his ziyaarat and think in whose court we are going to step in, it will affect the observance of the ziyaarat.

Four corners of the shrine

Taking care of the dignity and magnificence of Imam Reza (a.s.) and comprehension of cognizance of his illuminated personality greatly affect the observance of ziyaarat. As a result, the favours and munificence of Imam Reza (a.s.) over such a pilgrim is multiplied, which cannot be comprehended as the generosity and graciousness of the Holy Imam (a.s.) are unimaginable.

The consideration of these precautions attracts more favours of Imam Reza (a.s.) then there is no value of having the knowledge about ‘Nisb-e-Arba’⁰ (four pedigrees), as there is no value of the saying of ‘Elal-e-Arba’ (four causes)⁰. Aristotle and others, the power and force of Rustam Zaal and the wealth of Khusro Parwez can’t become the provision for this path nor it can attract the eternal favours of Imam Reza (a.s.). On certain occasions the pilgrim coming under the holy shelter of Imam Reza (a.s.) do not have either the illuminated heart nor due knowledge and cognizance, or enough money and resources or anything else but on the basis of generosity of Imam Reza (a.s.) (which is unlimited) and due to certain reasons (which they themselves know) helps them and leave such an effect on his pilgrims that they start to see all the four Bait al-Ma’moor (the house or mosque on fourth sky perpendicular to Kabah) and converse with the Holy Imam (a.s.) as if he is seeing him. All the pilgrim should try to enable themselves to attract the favours and attention of Imam Reza (a.s.).

Five Treasures of Human Being

The existence of human being is submerged in countless and priceless treasures. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said:

اَلنَّاسُ مَعَادِنُ كَمَعَادِنِ الذَّهَبِ وَ الْفِضَّةِ

“People are the treasures like the treasures of gold and silver.”⁰

One should not waste the moments of leisure and time, instead one should get acquainted with these bounties with the Divine help and through the medium of Holy Five (a.s.) (Panjetan) and infallible Imams (a.s.) who have been placed in our existence by Almighty Allah. We should give value to this short span of life and also control our five senses which are called as five treasures which should be utilized for the pleasure of Almighty Allah so that we could be able to know about the treasures hidden in our selves.

This is correct that all the inner self of all people are not equal. As their appearance is different their conscience also differs, as per the famous proverb:

پنج انگشت برادر ہستند امّا برابر نیستند.

‘Five fingers are brothers while they are not equal.’

However, the hidden treasure in every person contain internal senses and secret powers which should be recognized and benefitted.

The Ziyaarat of the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) is the best opportunity for the honourable pilgrims while they should ask the Holy Imam (a.s.) for the awakening of their internal forces which could enable them to be successful in the service of Holy Imam of Age (a.t.f.s.).

Superior than a Royal Palace

Not only the walkers on the dust of this universe, who come in troops, are privileged by performing the ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) but different creatures of Allah – the High – from all the six directions, visit the Divine Court of Imam Reza (a.s.) observing full decorum. Fortunate are the persons who perform Ziyaarat with perfection of faith, having control over their meditation and collecting their senses.

Some of the pilgrims feel ashamed in coming near the holy grave of Imam Reza (a.s.) and do not consider themselves to be able to attach with this magnanimous mansion and they sit in a corner and remain busy in praying and communicating secretly. They take every corner of the holy shrine better than a royal palace. Some of the pilgrims get ashamed when they could not touch the holy grave and think that their ziyaarat is not accepted.

Some pilgrims visit the holy shrine for the fulfillment of their needs and seeking cure for their patients and are blessed by the munificence and favours of Imam Reza (a.s.) and send salutations to the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and his Holy Progeny (a.s.) as a mark of gratitude. Thus, they make their faded faces and broken hearts delighted. Then whenever they go, they make the people lovers of Imam (a.s.) by telling them about the miracles of Imam Reza (a.s.).

The loving and favourable sight of Imam Reza (a.s.) is reserved for both types of pilgrims (having pure hearts) and their selves are illuminated by his munificence.

Seventh Qiblah

Everyday thousand of people, from all corners of the universe, having different cultures and decorum of pilgrimage, are privileged by visiting the seventh Qiblah. But Imam Reza (a.s.) bestows his pilgrims with his benignity and grandeur and saintly sight whether they come from neighbouring city or coming from far off places facing innumerable sufferings. But this is clear that all of them are not equal. Surely there is difference amongst the pilgrims who visit the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) facing lots of troubles and those who come having all the comforts. Although the gates of Hell are closed upon them and they are made to drink with seven streams of Heaven whose ziyaarat is accepted by the holy Imam (a.s.).⁰

But in spite of all this, all of them are not equal. Those who, after banishing all the worldly things like Ashaab-e-Kahf (People of Cave)⁰ and expelling all the wrong doers and maintaining distance from the enemies, affiliate themselves with Allah – the High – and infallible Imams (a.s.) become their lovers, their status is far high in comparison to others. Such persons are dipped in the meaningful fragrance of sepulehre of Imam Reza (a.s.). For them, there is no value of the seven wonders of the world only but of Venus – the star – of the sky.

Eighth Imam

A complete, strong and concentrated meditative state prove very much effective for ziyaarat as the dispersed senses and unconcentrated thoughts hinder complete concentration. Not only the sins but some physical activities as the disfunctioning stomach is also one of the causes of dispersed thinking.

If someone would perform the ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) with actual concentration and insight then all the eight gates of Paradise⁰ would be opened for him and he will be able to stroll in all eight gardens of Paradise and for such perons there is no value of eight treasures of Khusro Parvez.

Nine Skies

As it is said earlier that the inhabitants of sky also stretch their feathers (fly high) and descend on the land of Toos leaving behind nine indigo heaven (sepehr neelee) and nine livid heaven (Taarim Kabood).⁰

Tenth Infallible

They perform the ziyaarat of tenth infallible – Hazrat Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.) – and they kiss the dust of sepulehre of tenth infallible Imam (a.s.) like all other creatures.

Eleven Luminous Stars

Whoever performs the ziyaarat of Imam Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.) having faith of his status of Imamat, also has faith on the Imamat of all other eleven Imams (a.s.). Because there were some tribes in the old age of Shiite, who did not had faith on other Imams (a.s.) after Imam Reza (a.s.), those tribes no longer exists today.

Twelfth Imam

Today, whoever performs ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) having full faith in his Imamat, is Isna Ashari (twelver). They have faith in all the twelve Imams (a.s.) right from the Imamat of first Imam, Imam Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) – till twelfth Imam, Hazrat Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). Whenever they get Divine Guidance, they go to perform the ziyaarat of all those holy personage.

Although people rush in troops to perform the ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) in the months of Rajab, Zilqad and Safar in comparison to other months. But in spite of it, they perform ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) who is the Qiblah of hearts and Kabah of desires and wishes in other months as well.

Thirteen Times Guidance and Blessings

The honourable pilgrims should ponder on the point that they should perform the ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) with genuineness and sincerity. And should not take as a tourist place and Seezdah Badr⁰.

Although, as per the Divine Islamic Laws, tourism is also necessary but having intention of travelling for the purpose of Seezdah Badr is a wastage which is being encouraged by the aliens.

The figure of thirteen is not inauspicious so as to travel for keeping away from the home. The Almighty Allah has used the word ‘inauspicious’ only once in the Holy Quran but the words ‘hoda’ and ‘Rahmat’ (guidance and mercy) have been repeated thirteen times.

It could be inauspicious when the pilgrim perform the ziyaarat as a fun tour taking it as Divine Islamic laws. Such a visitation is absurd and inauspicious under the Islamic Divine Laws. But those who go for visitation taking with them the provision of expectation avoiding the comforts of sea journey, they are showered with the favours, love and unlimited blessings of Imam Reza (a.s.).

Fourteen Infallible Imams (a.s.)

For this reason we must try to avoid the un-islamic journey and should not displease the fourteen infallibles (a.s.) by doing unsincere ziyaarat.

One should not neglect the important point that certain places and timings contain some special qualities, following which, many big difficulties can be suspended. Shab-e-Qadr (night of grandeur) and some other nights, days and months containing such specialities are very well known to all.

It is said that there is such a time on the 14^th of every month when the invocations are answered. If this time is missed by someone, it is as if he has wasted a big leisure.

In the same manner some places as the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) contain enormous dignity and if we do not take into consideration its genuinity, we will waste this great opportunity. And we have not acted what is expected from us by Almighty Allah and fourteen infallibles (a.s.).

Etiquette of Ziyaarat of the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.)

The holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) is a resting place for all the creatures and shelter for his lovers and others. People from all parts of the universe are fond of visiting this holy court and they wish to quench their thrist from the ‘Saqqa Khaana’ (drinking place) of the holy shrine.

Tears start to flow from the eyes on getting the permission for entry (Izn-e-Dokhool) for entering into the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) which becomes the cause for increasing his love in the hearts.

Visitors coming in this holy court by road or sea are blessed with Mercy of Allah – the High – and everybody, big or small, favoured with the hospitality in this garden of blissful empyrean.

This holy land is the shelter for every person where everybody, whether pious, distressed or perturbed are welcomed and meaningfully guided.

When a visitor looks towards the beautiful dome of the holy shrine as if he absorbs its attention and saying, he may learn the lesson of repentance after some meditation before visiting the holy shrine. Be careful from the cluthes of satanic sway and adopt piety at all times.

The visitor should maintain satisfaction upon the blessings and kindness showered by Imam Reza (a.s.) and eulogise him demonstrating full faith and with firm determination so that he could get the fruit of rewards in abundance. The name of the visitor who perform ziyaarat having its recognition and acquaintance is written from land till heaven amongst the supreme visitors of Imam Reza (a.s.).

After getting the blessings and favours of Imam Reza (a.s.)’s shrine a place in the garden of his wilayat (guardianship) is reservered for the visitor and he is considered as a devoted pilgrim and then cover the journey from darkness to illumination in such a way that as soon as his eyes are closed (i.e. he dies), he will get the refuge of all the fourteen infallible Imams (a.s.).

While in the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.), one should recite glorification of Allah – the High – and should pray for the early reappearance of Imam of the age (a.t.f.s.) and for his Universal Sovereignity so that we could get salvation from wanderings and afflictions.

The servants of the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) keep standing with folded hands on their chest. The visitors rush in troops towards the holy sepulehre of Imam Reza (a.s.) having different invocations in their hearts.

May all the pilgrims pray for the early reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

The holy sepulehre (Zarih), bounded by an iron cage, is the shelter for the unsupported wayfarers. As soon as the visitors enter into it they invoke secretly for getting the attachment with the holy Imam (a.s.) and every moment they wait for acquiring the favours and blessings of Imam Reza (a.s.) so that they could leave the holy shrine after their prayers are fulfilled.

The pilgrims perform the ziyaarat humbly, with sincerity of heart, zeal, enthusiasm and try that they could not be disturbed by the crowd and having sincere attachment with Imam Reza (a.s.) and freeing themselves from the clutches of silver and gold (wealth), keep themselves busy in the remembrance of Almighty Allah and store the provision for the hereafter.

The ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) guides the pilgrims towards a pleasant spirit by serving the human being and self purification and self adoration with sincerity.

The pilgrim of the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) does not give any value to wealth and ornaments as there is no value of the actions of hypocrite. The cheerful-hearted pilgrims who, while sitting in the boat of wilayat (guardianship) in the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) shed tears, attract the merciful attention of the holy Imam (a.s.).

All the pilgrims in the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) get equal treatment whether he could be a commander of an army or a ruler of a country or a common man. Imam Reza (a.s.) is aware of the thoughts of every pilgrim and those who have pious and illuminated hearts get more attention of the holy Imam (a.s.).

Some pilgrims give more importance to the gift of water they get from the ‘Saqqa Khana’ of the holy shrine taking it as the water of kausar and salsabil⁰. After taking a sip of this water they send salutation on Imam Husain (a.s.) and thank the Almighty Allah for this bounty.

The gate of this holy shrine remains opened for everybody and at all times. People are witness for the generosity and kindness of compassionate Imam (a.s.). They send salutation as a mark of thankfulness for the cure and fulfilment of their desires.

As soon as a pilgrim enters into the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.), he feels that since a long time Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) had put his steps in every corner of the holy shrine. So he kisses the dust of this holy court humbly and apply it on his face and eyes.

Thousands of pilgrims are accommodated in every corner of the holy shrine as guests of Imam Reza (a.s.) and get the guarantee of Paradise after acquiring meaningful purification of their conscience.

The birds sitting on the golden dome of the holy shrine also very well know that there is no value of any ruler’s royal palace in comparison with this holy shrine. It is the desire of every bird to circumambulate the saqqa khana of the shrine.

The beautiful saqqa khana in the old courtyard of the holy shrine reminds us of desire of visitation of Hazrat Abul Fazlil Abbas (a.s.). How Saqqa-e-Sakina had avoided drinking the water, in spite of his utmost thirst on the day of Aashoor and how he (a.s.) fought bravely with the forces of Ibn-e-Ziyad (l.a.) and saved the standard (alam) from falling.

Everybody is aware of the ‘Ghareeb al-Ghoraba’ (cherisher of the poors) Imam Reza (a.s.) and his kindness over the poors. He knows that the holy Imam (a.s.) is the consoler of the poors. He devours the sorrowful hearts in such a way that pleasant waves run inside their bodies.

In this holy mansion, we should pray for the early reappearance of our Imam of the age – Hazrat Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) – so as to be benefitted with his munificence for Hereafter and also to pray for remaining safe from the seditions during the dark period of his occultation.

The city of Mashhad is famous for its sanctity. The pilgrims of this holy shrine should take care of its values and dignities and they should try that all sorts of sins and troubles are removed from this holy city lest men and women crush the Islamic laws and show their unislamic activities before the people.

The pure-hearted shoe-keepers of the shrine – who never feel sorry – are the holders of keys of the treasure of nearness to holy Imam (a.s.), welcome every visitor. Right in the early morning they are prepared for the service and leave no stone unturned in serving the pilgrims.

The ‘Guldasta’ of the holy shrine (guides) lead the wandering pilgrims and by dint of their elevation and firmness they give lessons of firmness of fact and hope to the secluded and old persons. They teach them how to overcome the difficulties and get attachment with faith and belief and to avoid hopelessness and always remain elevated.

The benignity and graciousness of Imam Reza (a.s.) is very well known to everyone. Everybody may select pearls and jewels from this divine mansion. The key of this universe and the hereafter is in the hands of Imam Reza (a.s.). One should not be destitute of hope and should defeat hopelessness and despair which is an army of self and Satan.

The visitation of (the shrine of) Imam Reza (a.s.) is the solution of all sorts of problems and in hope for the persons of all parts of this Universe. Whoever is privileged by the ziyaarat of this holy court get his desires fulfilled and decor the medal of generosity and benignity of Imam Reza (a.s.) on his chest.

The Naqqara Khana (drum room) of the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) informs the people from sunrise to sunset. But a day will come when desperation and miseries will come to an end and the voice of “help from Allah and a victory near at hand” will be roused from this elevated place and that day would be for the performers of good deeds.

One should enter the holy shrine with humbleness so that he could get utility of his visitation from Imam Reza (a.s.) and keep himself away from whims and caprices and should pray that he could be successful in the presence of holy Imam (a.s.) to get success.

Everybody gets the shadow of munificence of Imam Reza (a.s.) on his head and pilgrim is benefitted with the unlimited generosity of the holy Imam (a.s.). So the pilgrims should control their senses and remain cautious so that his meditation could not be disturbed.

One should always remember that the prophets and favourites of Allah – the High – have helped the religion of Almighty Allah by accepting the guardianship (wilayat) of Ahlul Bait (a.s.). So one should pray to Imam Reza (a.s.) with the belief that you could be able to be one of the companions of Hazrat Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).

Some other guidelines

Regardless of the reason for visiting (which is the practice of real servants of Almighty Allah), we mean that some times due to not paying attention, less attention, mixed attention or performing certain undesirable actions which have been repeatedly mentioned by Almighty Allah in different places in the Holy Quran, the pilgrim lose the chance of getting great rewards. This is the main reason for the person (to establish a connection with Almighty Allah and holy family (a.s.)) does not benefit from.

Those who do not observe modesty and statutory Islamic dress (hijab), who do not control their eyes, do not avoid music, etc, they must know that those who were fond of musical instruments have left this world. Those who go near the sepulcher of Imam Reza (a.s.), having interests in music, will also die and one day, also the names of the rulers and musicians will be erased from this world. What will they do in their graves?

Is it correct that people come to perform ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) from Iran and from far off places of the world but they could not understand the dignity and magnanimity of this holy shrine on account of having interests in such absurd activities.

We are sorry to say that Wahhabis are trying their level best to minimize the importance of the ziyarat of Ahlul Bait (a.s.) and in order to obtain their target they are encouraging many absurd activities.

They declare one time that ziyaarat is an unislamic journey and at the same time they also try to belittle the grandeur of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). They are doing the same work which was done by Umayyids, Abbasids, Moawiya and Amr-e-Aas (l.a.).

As much as they try to erase the names of the progeny of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) from the tongues and hearts of the people, the Almighty Allah discloses their ill-intentions. Hereunder it is better to mention a discourse of Imam Reza (a.s.).

Discourse of Imam Reza (a.s.) about the breach of promise of enemies of Ahlul Bait (a.s.)

Imam Reza (a.s.) says:

اَلْحَمْدُ لِلهِ الَّذِيْ حَفِظَ مِنَّا مَا ضَيَّعَ النَّاسُ وَ رَفَعَ مِنَّا مَا وَضَعُوْهُ حَتّٰى لَقَدْ لُعِنَّا عَلٰى مَنَابِرِ الْكُفْرِ ثَـمَانِيْنَ عَامًا وَ كُتِمَتْ فَضَائِلُنَا وَ بُذِلَتِ الْاَمْوَالُ فِيْ الْكَذِبِ عَلَيْنَا وَ اللهُ تَعَالٰى يَاْبٰى لَنَا اِلَّا اَنْ يُعْلِيَ ذِكْرَنَا وَ يُبَيِّنَ فَضْلَنَا وَ اللهِ مَا هٰذَا بِنَا وَ اِنَّمَا هُوَ بِرَسُوْلِ اللهِ صَلَّي اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَ اٰلِہٖ وَ قَرَابَتِنَا مِنْهُ حَتّٰى صَارَ اَمْرُنَا وَ مَا نَرْوِيْ عَنْهُ اَنَّهٗ سَيَكُوْنُ بَعْدَنَا مِنْ اَعْظَمِ آيَاتِهٖ وَ دَلَالَاتِ نُبُوَّتِهٖ.

Praise be to Allah who protected for us what the people had ruined, and promoted us no matter how much the people debased us. They cursed us while lecturing on the atheists’ pulpits for eighty years. They covered up our nobilities. They spent money and attributed it to us. However, Allah - the High - wished to increase our remembrance and elucidate our nobility. By Allah, what was done to us was not just aimed at us. It was truly aimed at Allah’s Prophet (s.a.w.a.), and it was due to our closeness to him. That is why we were oppressed so much. However, our leadership and what we narrated about him will be the greatest signs and proofs of his Prophethood after us.”⁰

The Wahhabi agents should know that the breach of promises and treacheries of hiding the merits of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) by Moawiyah (l.a.) were far more than the treacheries of the present time Wahhabism. But in the end they were degraded insulted and their intentions were buried along with them. But the holy name of the Progeny of Revelation (a.s.) is still alive and shinning. In the end, Wahhabism will have the same fate.

Bomb Explosion In The Shrine Of Imam Reza (a.s.)

Now, while we have mentioned the rigidness of the involvement of Wahhabism (the invention of disdainful Judaism) it would be better to describe the event of bomb explosion held in the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) at the time of zohr on the day of Aashur in the year 1415 A.H. So that the people must know that such absurd activities are being done by the enemies of Islam, the blood-stained hands, with all their ill-activities, are standing in front of Shias and are trying their level best, in compliance with the orders of jews, to erase Shiaism but they are unaware of the fact that their activities will see a dreadful end.

They very well know that from the beginning of Islam, the Jews stood against Islam and they conjoined with Abu Jahl (l.a.) and Abu Sufyan (l.a.) in order to eradicate Islam. But always they had to see the dust. Not only they but whoever attacked hypocritically on Islam. Although they created disintegretion amongst the nation and deprived many people. But in spite of all this, the number of Shias always increased and in spite of all the treacharies of the enemy, Shiaism is prospering and a day will come when the Shias will rule the whole world.

This must be remembered that at the time of martyrdom of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) the population of Muslims was seven millions and at the time of the event of Saqifah the number of the followers of the wilayat (guardianship) of the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) was not as much as to be counted on fingers. But in spite of all the conspiracies and treacheries against the Shias to annihilate them, the present Shia population is one-third of the total Muslims. And a day will come when the whole world would be converted to real Islam i.e. Shia faith.

The religion, which is being guarded by Allah – the High – Himself, how could it be vanished by any group? Is it not so that the Almighty Allah will Himself give victory to His religion over all the other religions?

Why some people are brain-washed and hired in order to destroy the holy places and kill the Shias?

Do they not know that by bombarding the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) only its walls and surroundings could be destroyed but it has rather boosted the love of the friends of Holy Progeny of Infallible Imams (a.s.)? They are ready to get a chance when they could annihilate those bad characters. This is such a fact which is accepted by many unfamiliar hands and their accomplice.

They very well know that as Abu Sufyan (l.a.), Abu Jahl (l.a.), Moawiyah (l.a.) and Amr-e-Aas (l.a.) could not downcast the religion of Allah – the High, the same way these newly created spiders would not be able to destroy the firm and strong foundations of Shiaism.

Yes, this is such a point which is well known to them.

Do You Recognise the Bombarders of the Holy Shrine

There is another point which should be noted by all the Shias and friends of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.).

We very eagerly kiss the walls and dust of the Holy Shrine and with all our senses we hate and dislike the attackers of the Holy Shrine. Although we are not responsible for the watchfulness of the Holy Shrine but this is our duty and responsibility to guard the Holy Sanctuary of Almighty Allah which is also the sanctuary of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.).

All those who have faith on Almighty Allah and belief of guardianship of Infallible Imams (a.s.) should try their level best to protect the Holy Shrine from all sorts of harms and dangers.

The Holy Progeny of Revelation (a.s.) have forcefully stressed in their narrations in this regard and have diverted attention towards the importance and magnificence of this holy shrine and have expressed their strict displeasure over those who do not give any importance to it.

Do you know the shrine which should be visited by every faithful Muslim? Do you know the shrine which should be guarded by everyone and which should be protected from the harmfulness of bombardments? If you do not know about this shrine then attach yourself with the school of Infallible Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) who would let you know about this shrine.

Allamah Majlisi (r.a.) narrates in Behaar al-Anwaar on the authority of Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.) that he (a.s.) said:

اَلْقَلْبُ حَرَمُ اللهِ فَلَا تُسْكِنْ حَرَمَ اللهِ غَيْرَ اللهِ.

“The heart is the sanctuary of Allah, do not place anything else in the sanctuary of Allah except Allah.”⁰

In the same manner he has written another narration of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) that he (s.a.w.a.) said:

نَاجٰى دَاوُدُ رَبَّهٗ فَقَالَ: اِلٰهِيْ لِكُلِّ مَلَكٍ خِزَانَةٌ فَاَيْنَ خِزَانَتُكَ؟

قَالَ جَلَّ جَلَالُهٗ: لِيْ خِزَانَةٌ اَعْظَمُ مِنَ الْعَرْشِ، وَ اَوْسَعُ مِنَ الْكُرْسِيِّ، وَ اَطْيَبُ مِنَ الْـجَنَّةِ، وَ اَزْيَنُ مِنَ الْمَلَكُوْتِ:

اَرْضُهَا الْمَعْرِفَةُ، وَ سَمَاؤُهَا الْاِيْـمَانُ، وَ شَمْسُهَا الشَّوْقُ، وَ قَمَرُهَا الْمَحَبَّةُ، وَ نُـجُوْمُهَا الْخَوَاطِرُ، وَ سَحَابُهَا الْعَقْلُ، وَ مَطَرُهَا الرَّحْمَةُ، وَ اَثْمَارُهَا الطَّاعَةُ، وَ ثَمَرُهَا الْحِكْمَةُ.

وَ لَهَا اَرْبَعَةُ اَبْوَابٍ: اَلْعِلْمُ وَ الْـحِلْمُ وَ الصَّبْرُ وَ الرِّضَا: اَلَا وَ هِيَ الْقَلْبُ.

“The prophet Dawood (a.s.) asked Allah; ‘O my Lord! All the emperors possess treasure then where is Your treasure?

Allah – Mighty and Majestic be He – replied: ‘I possess a treasure which is greater than the sky; vaster than the Heaven’s firmaments; smells better than the perfumes of Paradise, and is beautiful than the Celestial Kingdom.

Its earth is enlightenment; its sky is belief, its sun is enthusiasm; its moon is love, its stars are inspiration and attention towards Me; its clouds are reason, its rain is blessing, its fruits are obedience; and its yield is wisdom.

My Treasure has four doors, the first one is the door of knowledge, the second one is the door of reason, the third one is the door of patience, and the fourth one is the door of contentment. Know that My Treasure is – the heart (of a believer)".⁰

You have witnessed that the heart has been pronounced more magnificent than the sanctuary of Almighty Allah and His Empyrean. If they rightfully guard this Shrine and give it deserving importance and respect then they will be accepted in the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) and they will be eligible for the meaningful hospitality.

So we must be very careful in this regard that our heart should remain associated with Imam Reza (a.s.).

We should try to purify our heart and should not give any place to aliens. Should not use all sorts of earnings, should not listen to all voices, should not see all the scenes, should protect the sanctity of heart so that our hidden eyes could be discerning and our internal ears could be able to listen. Then whoever would be in such a state, would receive a deserving welcome in the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.).

We should be watchful towards the protection of this Holy Shrine. But if we shall obey our aspirations we would be providing the resources of the destruction of this Holy Shrine. If our characters, conversation and thoughts are not in accordance with the commands of infallible Imams (a.s.) and remain indulged in sinning and do not keep us away from the prohibited things then our activities would be similar to the bomb to which we are going to plant in the sanctuary of Allah – the High, i.e. in our hearts.

As the bombardment in the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) had very much grieved us, our sins are also akin to the bomb by which we damage our heart as well as the sanctuary of Allah – the High.

As we hate the bombarders of the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) and consider them treacherous, in the same manner our inner conscious is also our biggest enemy which compels us to damage and spoil our heart. As the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) has said:

اَعْدٰى عَدُوِّكَ نَفْسُكَ الَّتِيْ بَيْنَ جَنْۢبَيْكَ

‏”Your worst enemy is your self which is with you.”⁰

If we would pay attention on this point that a person becomes so much negligent so as to be forgetful towards the Almighty Allah and due to which he forgets his self also. The Almighty Allah says:

وَلَا تَكُوْنُوْا كَالَّذِيْنَ نَسُوْا اللہَ فَاَنْسٰـىہُمْ اَنْفُسَہُمْ...

“And be not like those who forsook Allah, so He made them forsake their own souls…”⁰

If a person is such that he is able to recognise the faults and transgressions of others and eagerly and anxiously discloses in front of others but he did not pay any attention towards his own faults and do not consider himself a criminal so as to cure it. Such persons are indulged in compound ignorance as he does not know that he is ignorant.

If such a person is there he will grieve the event of bombardment over the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) and other places. But since he has forgotten himself he would never pay any attention towards the destruction of bombardments. As the heart, which should be the sanctuary of Allah – the High, has now been possessed by the devils, so he could not be able to know about its harms.

As the school of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) teaches us that we must recognise enemies, we should not only be able to recognize our external enemies but we should also know the carnal soul which is our worst enemy which sometimes gives place to the external enemy.

Thus a person conflicts the biggest bombardment and destruction inside his heart. But as the Almighty Allah has said that he forgets and does not pay any attention towards it at all.

So we must be aware of not only about our external enemy, goadings of Satan, treacheries and cheating of western countries but must also remain alert about our internal enemy – carnal soul.

Now, while we have come to know that we bombard our heart and the shrine due to performing evil deeds and sins, we must know that had we not left Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) alone and would have associated with them, the holy places would not have been bombarded and the external forces could not have performed such activities.

As Commander of Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) has said about Imam of our Age (a.t.f.s.):

صَاحِبُ هٰذَا الْاَمْرِ الشَّرِيْدُ الطَّرِيْدُ الْفَرِيْدُ الْوَحِيْدُ.

“The Master of this Affair is the runaway, the fugitive, the loner and the forlorn.”⁰

Had our society would not have indulged with this sin (leaving the Imam of our Age (a.t.f.s.) alone) the traitors would have never been able to perform this mischief and could have damaged the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.). So as much we would keep ourselves disassociate with such people and their character we would never hinder their way due to our negligence instead of sacrificing us over our Imam of the Age (a.t.f.s.) and Infallible Imams (a.s.) and giving them way to enter in.

As a result the enemies, by forming Wahhabi, Bahai and many other sects and by empowering them take steps with the help of unknown hands to acquire the dirty targets.

The servants of Jews, with their imaginative activities, are trying to disenable the religion of Almighty Allah but they do not know that the Lord, Who had created millions of stars has Himself promised that at last He would send the Sun of the Universe, Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) to help Islam and to annihilate the enemies of the religion. At last they would not be able to get any thing except disgrace and reproach.

The unfamiliar hands and cheaters have seen only the black colour of the crow and took it factual but they are unable to listen the singing of thousands of nightingales.

May it would have been known to them that the time is short and leisure is going to end. May they could have understand that after every black night the sun shines. Now the darkness of the night is about to come to an end and Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) would illuminate the whole Universe with his light.

The Guidelines of Imam Reza (a.s.) in Respect of Recognising the People

We are sorry to say that it is possible that such people may be friends in appearance and they mingle amongst the people but inwardly they are the agents of the enemy. That is why Imam Reza (a.s.) has warned us to recognize the people rightfully and do not be cheated by their appearance. Now consider over the under-mentioned two traditions:

1. Imam Reza (a.s.) narrates on the authority of Imam Sajjad (a.s.) that he (a.s.) said:

“When you see a person who is pious in his appearance, who speaks politely, and his manner is like that of a believer, wait. Do not be deceived by his appearance because there are many people who cannot gain this world by their own strength. Therefore, they use the religion in order to gain their worldly desires. They deceive the people with their outward appearance. As soon as they obtain the power to gain haram wealth, they will jump after it.

If you see a person who avoids haram wealth, I warn you do not be in a hurry to form a good opinion of him. You should not be deceived by him because people have different kinds of desires. There are some people who avoid haram wealth, but lose their faith on a woman and commit a horrible crime like adultery.

When you see a person who avoids adultery, do not hurry to make an opinion about such a person. Protect yourself from his tricks. Check his level of intellect because sometimes a person avoids the bad deeds, but his level of intellect creates ignorance amongst the people. If his level of intellect appears to be perfect, still do not be quick to form an opinion about him because sometimes such people use their intellect to gain their worldly pleasures.

Until you see a person does not have a desire for ruling because there are some people who abandon this world in order to gain this world and they will be amongst the losers in the hereafter. They believe the wealth of this world is more attractive than the halal blessings of Allah. So they leave all these things so as to get the invalidities. As it is said in the Holy Quran:

وَاِذَا قِيْلَ لَہُ اتَّقِ اللہَ اَخَذَتْہُ الْعِزَّۃُ بِالْاِثْمِ فَحَسْـبُہٗ جَہَنَّمُ۝۰ۭ وَلَبِئْسَ الْمِہَادُ۝۲۰۶

And when it is said to him, guard against (the punishment of) Allah; pride carries him off to sin, therefore hell is sufficient for him; and certainly it is an evil resting place.⁰

So they resemble with such a camel who does not look forward i.e steps ahead without having perception, which leads him towards the far-ending harming target. After that when he wishes for the thing which is unpracticable for him, then he is thrown into destruction by Almighty Allah. As a result he takes the haram things as halal and considers the halal things as haram. Now he does not care for the loss of his faith.

These are the persons who are chastised by Almighty Allah and cursed and they deserve for fierceful chastisement. But that person is the best person who does everything in the obedience of Allah (s.w.t.) and uses his full strength for the pleasure of Allah (s.w.t.). Such a person believes associating with truth is the real honor and he does not gain worldly respect by associating himself with falsehood. This is the best person. Associate yourself with him and follow his example. Gain the nearness of Allah through such person because Allah never rejects such a person’s dua.”⁰

Hypocrite Friend

2. Hasan Ibn Ali Khazzaaz narrates that I heard Imam Reza (a.s.) saying:

“Amongst the persons claiming for the friendship and affection to Holy Progeny of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.), there are some whose seditions are more dangerous than the treachery of Dajjaal.”

I exclaimed: How could it be?

He (a.s.) said:

“Loving our enemies and having enmity with our friends. Because whenever it so happens truth and falsehood are mixed together and the matter becomes doubtful. As a result a faithful believer and hypocrite can not be differentiated.”⁰

The grandeur of the Holy Shrine in the discourses of Imam Reza (a.s.)

Before we describe the rewards of the visitation of the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.), we would like to mention the grandeur and responsibility of illuminated shrine, so that we would be able to know in whose mansion we have stepped in and we could be able to present ourselves in the holy sepulehre in a better way.

In this court, angels and favourites of Allah (s.w.t.) enter. In a tradition Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

هٰذِهِ الْبُقْعَةُ رَوْضَةٌ مِّنْ رِيَاضِ الْـجَنَّةِ وَ مُخْتَلَفُ الْمَلَائِكَةِ لَا يَزَالُ فَوْجٌ يَنْزِلُ مِنَ السَّمَاءِ وَ فَوْجٌ يَصْعَدُ اِلٰى اَنْ يُنْفَخَ فِيْ الصُّوْرِ.

“This mausoleum is a garden from the gardens of Paradise and frequenting place of the angels; a group will descend from the heaven and another will ascend to heaven until the trumpet is blown.”⁰

All the angels remain standing in front of Imam (a.s.) and will keep up standing till he (a.s.) permits them to sit down.

In this regard a beautiful tradition has been narrated by Imam Jawad (a.s.) which is connected with this discourse. He (a.s.) said:

“One of the companion of Imam Reza (a.s.) fell ill. Imam (a.s.) went for taking his care and said: ‘How are you?’

He said: ‘I met with death after you (i.e. he wanted to tell the sternity and hardships of his sickness).

Imam (a.s.) said: “How did you taste the death?”

He said: ‘Very stern and painful.’

Imam (a.s.) said: “You could not see death, instead you have seen a thing which could make you aware of and show you some signs of the death. There are two types of persons with respect to death. One is he who is comforted after death and the others are those whose death gives comfort to others.”

So refresh your faith with the wilayat of the Almighty Allah and we – the Ahul Bayt (a.s.), so that you could be counted amongst the first group and you could get comfort.”

That person acted upon the command of Imam (a.s.) and then said: ‘O son of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)! All these are the angels of Allah – the High – who have come with salutations, gifts and presentations, who are sending their salutations upon you and are standing before you. Please allow them to be seated.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said: “O Angels! Be seated.”

Then he (a.s.) said to that sick person: “Ask these angels, whether they have received the order to be seated?”

The sick person said: ‘I have asked them and they have replied that if all the angels, who have been created by Almighty Allah come in your presence, they will remain standing till they are not ordered to sit down. The Almighty Allah has commanded them to do so.’⁰

As Imam Reza (a.s.) said that his shrine is the place of visitation of the angels. This becomes clear that same is the grandeur and magnanimity of all the infallible Imams (a.s.) and all the angels are posted to be in the state of humility and modesty in front of all the infallible Imams (a.s.). Not only the angels, but the prominent prophets (Ulul A’zm) are well aware of their status and dignity. And they get deliverance in their hardships through the medium of these infallible personalities.

Resorting to Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)

Shaikh Sadooq (r.a.) on his own authorities reports that Imam Ali Reza (a.s.) said:

“When Hazrat Nooh (a.s.) feared to be drowned, he beseeched Almighty Allah through our medium and Allah – the High – saved him from drowning. When Hazrat Ibrahim (a.s.) was thrown in the fire, he invoked Allah – the High – through our medium so He converted the fire into bed of flowers and he was saved. Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) while striking his staff on the river, called Almighty Allah through our medium so He made the river dry. When Hazrat Eesaa (a.s.) felt the danger of being killed, he beseeched Allah – the High – through our medium and he was saved and Allah raised him up.”⁰

As the messengers of Allah – the High – used to invoke Him through the medium of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) in their difficulties and miseries, this should be our exhortation that we should, in our difficulties and miseries⁰ call the Almighty Allah through the medium of these infallible personalities.

In another tradition it has been narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.):

“Whenever you are entangled in any storm, misery and trouble, then you should beseech Almighty Allah through our medium as He has said in the Holy Quran:

وَلِلہِ الْاَسْمَاۗءُ الْحُسْنٰى فَادْعُوْہُ بِہَا...

“And Allah’s are the best names, therefore call on Him thereby…”⁰

Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.) said:

“By Allah! There are glorious names of Almighty Allah that Allah – the High – will not accept any thing without our affilitation.”⁰

It is praiseworthy to be affiliated with these infallible personalities and it is apparent that if we affiliate with them in their shrines it would be most effective. As praying in the shrines of infallibles (a.s.) carries great rewards.

Excellence of Praying in the Shrines of Infallible Imams (a.s.)

Mohaddis Qummi (r.a.) writes that great scholar and jurisprudent Shaikh Khizr Shalaal (r.a.) said in his ‘mazaar’⁰:

“It is evident from the intellectual and documented logics that praying in the shrines of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), Imam Ali Ibn-e-Abi Taalib (a.s.) and all other infallible Imams (a.s.) is more meritious than praying in Holy Ka’ba wherein offering of prayers is one thousand times more than praying in all other places. Although the reward of praying in Masjid al-Nabawi is ten thousand times more than the reward of praying at other places.”⁰

However, it is the duty of respectable attendants and the visitors to take care of the rights of others.

Whatever we have narrated so far was about the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) and other Infallible Imams (a.s.). But you must know that some particular cities also carry some specialities. Now pay attention on the following two traditions:

Excellence of Najaf, Karbala and Toos (Mashhad)

Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.) said:

اَرْبَعَةُ بِقَاعٍ ضَجَّتْ اِلَى اللهِ مِنَ الْغَرَقِ- اَيَّامَ الطُّوفَانِ: قَالَ الْبَيْتُ الْمَعْمُورُ فَرَفَعَهُ اللهُ اِلَيْهِ وَ الْغَرِيُّ وَ كَرْبَلَاءُ وَ طُوْسُ.

“During the days of deluge (the flood in the time of Prophet Nooh (a.s.)) four lands invoked Allah – the High: Bayt al-Ma’moor – which was raised up by Allah (s.w.t.), Najaf, Karbala and Toos.”⁰

It is evident from this tradition that the land of Toos carry some specialities like Najaf and Karbala.

The writer of the book ‘al-Waafi’ says:

“These lands invoked Almighty Allah because not a single soul was going to remain alive due to the deluge who could worship the Almighty Allah on those lands. That is why Almighty Allah selected them as burial place of His Favourites.

Sanabad was the first palace constructed on this holy land by Hazrat Zulqarnain which remained before the construction of Toos.”⁰

According to another tradition, it has been said:

“Dawood Ibn Qasim Ja’fari reports that I have heard from Imam Muhammad Ibn Ali al-Jawad (a.s.) that he (a.s.) said:

اِنَّ بَيْنَ جَبَلَيْ طُوْسَ قَبْضَةً قُبِضَتْ مِنَ الْجَنَّةِ. مَنْ دَخَلَهَا كَانَ آمِنًا يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ مِنَ النَّارِ.

“Surely Toos is such a place between the two hills which is detached from the Heaven. Whoever enters this place will be secure from the fire of Hell on the Day of Resurrection.”⁰

It is evident from these traditions that apart from the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) the city of Toos also carries special merits and honours. So the visitors should be careful about these instructions.

Apart from these explanations we shall mention hereunder an event about Dua-e-Tawassul to be recited in the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.).

Supplication Inside the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.)

Abul Abbas Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Ahmad ibn Al-Husain al-Hakim - may Allah (s.w.t.) be pleased with him – narrated that he had heard the ruler of Marv Rood, Aba Ali Aamir ibn Abdullah al-Biwardi, who was one of the tradition narrators say,

“I went to visit the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) in Toos. Then I saw a Turkish man enter the Shrine and stood at the position of the Imam (a.s.)’s head. He cried and prayed in Turkish, and said, ‘O my Lord! If my son is alive, please bring us together. However, if he has died, please let me know.’

I knew Turkish. Then I asked him, ‘What is the matter?’ He said, ‘I had a son who was with me in the Battle of Ishaqabad. I lost him there and have had no news of him. His mother cries for him day and night. I have come here to pray to Allah – the Highest – to solve this problem, since I have heard that prayers said in this Shrine get fulfilled.’

Then I felt sorry for him. I took his hands and took him out of the Shrine to act as his host that day. Once we left the Goharshad mosque, we ran into a tall, young man who had just started to grow a mustache and was wearing patched clothes. When the Turkish man saw him, he jumped towards him, hugged him and cried. They both recognized each other. This was just the son for whom he was praying in Imam Reza (a.s.)’s tomb to Allah – the Highest – to be united with, or be informed of his whereabouts.

I (Abul Abbas Ahmad) asked the son, ‘How did you get here?”

The son said, ‘After the Battle of Ishaqabad, I ended up in Tabaristan. A man from Daylam took me to his house and raised me. Now that I have grown up, I have set out to find my parents about whose whereabouts I had no information. I was accompanying a group of people, since I did not know the way until I reached here.’

Then the Turkish man said, ‘I saw what has made my belief in this Shrine certain due to this tomb. Now I promise myself not to part with it for as long as I live.’ And praise be to Allah, the First and the Last, and the Ascendant (over all) and the Knower of hidden things. And blessings and peace be upon His Prophet and His Loved one Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) – the chosen one and his Household – blessings and many salutations with all respect.”⁰

Alas! We could know that not only that young man, all of us are distracted as well as we have distanced ourselves from Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) and we are unable to find him.

We should also pray in the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) as well as in the shrines of other holy Imams (a.s.) for having their mediation and also for the avowal of the deliverer of the humanity Imam of the Age (a.t.f.s.).

Eight Traditions Narrated by Infallible Imams (a.s.) about the Rewards of Ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.)

(1) Shaikh Sadooq (r.a.) on his own authorities narrates that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said:

سَيُدْفَنُ بَضْعَةٌ مِنِّيْ بِاَرْضِ خُرَاسَانَ لَا يَزُوْرُهَا مُؤْمِنٌ اِلَّا اَوْجَبَ اللهُ عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ لَهُ الْـجَنَّةَ وَ حَرَّمَ جَسَدَهٗ عَلَى النَّارِ.

“Soon one of my own flesh and blood will be buried in the land of Khorasan. Any believer who goes on pilgrimage to his shrine will be rewarded by Allah (s.w.t.). Heaven will be guaranteed for him and his body will be secure from the Fire of Hell.”⁰

(2) No’maan Ibn Saeed reports that Imam Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) said:

سَيُقْتَلُ رَجُلٌ مِنْ وُلْدِيْ بِاَرْضِ خُرَاسَانَ بِالسَّمِّ ظُلْمًا اسْمُهُ اسْمِيْ وَ اسْمُ اَبِيْهِ اسْمُ ابْنِ عِمْرَانَ مُوسٰى عَلَيْهِ السَّلَامُ.

اَلَا فَمَنْ زَارَهٗ فِيْ غُرْبَتِهٖ غَفَرَ اللهُ تَعَالٰى ذُنُوْبَهٗ مَا تَقَدَّمَ مِنْهَا وَ مَا تَاَخَّرَ وَ لَوْ كَانَتْ مِثْلَ عَدَدِ النُّجُوْمِ وَ قَطْرِ الْاَمْطَارِ وَ وَرَقِ الْاَشْجَارِ.

“One of my offspring will be killed by poison in the land of Khorasan. His name will be the same as mine. And his father’s name will be the same as the name of (Prophet) Moosa ibn Imran (a.s.).

Allah – the High – will forgive the sins of whoever goes to visit him in his loneliness, even if his sins are as many as there are stars, rain drops and tree leaves.”⁰

(3) Qabeezah Ibn Jaabir reports that I heard the Trustee of the Trustees and the inheritor of the Prophets’ knowledge Aba Ja’far Muhammad ibn Ali ibn al-Husain ibn Ali ibn Abi Taalib (Imam al-Baqir) (a.s.) say, ‘The Master of the Worshippers, Ali ibn al-Husain (as-Sajjad) (a.s.) narrated that the Master of the Martyrs al-Husain ibn Ali (a.s.) quoted on the authority of the Master of the Trustees – the Commander of the Faithful – Ali ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.), on the authority of Allah’s Prophet (s.a.w.a.),

سَتُدْفَنُ بَضْعَةٌ مِنِّيْ بِاَرْضِ خُرَاسَانَ مَا زَارَهَا مَكْرُوْبٌ اِلَّا نَفَّسَ اللهُ كُرْبَتَهٗ وَ لَا مُذْنِبٌ اِلَّا غَفَرَ اللهُ ذُنُوْبَهٗ.

“One of my own flesh and blood will be buried in Khorasan. Allah will surely remove the sorrows of any sorrowful person who goes on pilgrimage to his shrine. Allah will surely forgive the sins of any sinful person who goes on pilgrimage to his shrine.”⁰

(4) Hamza ibn Homran reports that Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.) said,

يُقْتَلُ حَفَدَتِيْ بِاَرْضِ خُرَاسَانَ فِيْ مَدِيْنَةٍ يُقَالُ لَهَا طُوْسُ مَنْ زَارَهٗ اِلَيْهَا عَارِفًا بِحَقِّهٖ اَخَذْتُهٗ بِيَدِيْ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ فَاَدْخَلْتُهُ الْـجَنَّةَ وَ اِنْ كَانَ مِنْ اَهْلِ الْكَبَائِرِ

“My grandson will be killed in the land of Khorasan in a town called Toos. On the Resurrection Day, I will grab the hands of whoever visits him there recognizing his rightfulness, and I will take him into Heaven even if he has committed major sins.”

I asked Abu Abdullah (a.s.), “May I be your ransom! What does ‘recognizing his rightfulness’ mean?” The Imam (a.s.) said,

يَعْلَمُ اَنَّهٗ اِمَامٌ مُفْتَرَضُ الطَّاعَةِ شَهِيْدٌ مَنْ زَارَهٗ عَارِفًا بِـحَقِّهٖ اَعْطَاهُ اللهُ تَعَالٰى لَهٗ اَجْرَ سَبْعِيْنَ اَلْفَ شَهِيْدٍ مِمَّنِ اسْتُشْهِدَ بَيْنَ يَدَيْ رَسُولِ اللهِ ؐ عَلٰى حَقِيْقَةٍ

“It means to know that he is the Divine Leader who must be obeyed and that he was martyred. Whoever visits him recognizing his rightfulness shall be rewarded by Allah – the High – the reward of seventy-thousand martyrs who were really martyred right in front of Allah’s Prophet (s.a.w.a.).”⁰

(5) Sulaiman ibn Hafs al-Marvazi reports that he had heard Imam Moosa ibn Ja’far (a.s.) saying,

اِنَّ ابْنِيْ عَلِيًّا مَقْتُوْلٌ بِالسَّمِّ ظُلْمًا وَ مَدْفُوْنٌ اِلٰى جَنْۢبِ هَارُوْنَ بِطُوْسَ مَنْ زَارَهٗ كَمَنْ زَارَ رَسُوْلَ اللهِ ؐ.

“Surely, my son Ali will be oppressively poisoned and killed. He will be buried in Toos next to (Ma’moon’s father) Haroon. Whoever visits him (Imam Reza (a.s.)), it is as if he has visited Allah’s Prophet (s.a.w.a.).”⁰

(6) Sulaiman ibn Hafs al-Marwazi quotes that he had heard Imam Abul Hasan Moosa ibn Ja’far (al-Kazim) (a.s.) saying,

مَنْ زَارَ قَبْرَ وَلَدِيْ عَلِيٍّ كَانَ لَهٗ عِنْدَ اللهِ تَعَالٰى سَبْعُوْنَ حِـجَّةً مَبْرُوْرَةً

“Allah – the High – will grant the reward of seventy accepted pilgrimages to the House of Allah to anyone who goes on pilgrimage to the shrine of my son Ali (Imam Reza (a.s.)).”

I asked, “Do you mean the reward of seventy accepted pilgrimages to the Kaaba?” The Imam (a.s.) replied,

نَعَمْ وَ سَبْعُوْنَ اَلْفَ حِجَّةٍ ثُمَّ قَالَ رُبَّ حِجَّةٍ لَا تُقْبَلُ وَ مَنْ زَارَهٗ اَوْ بَاتَ عِنْدَهٗ لَيْلَةً كَانَ كَمَنْ زَارَ اللهَ تَعَالٰى فِيْ عَرْشِهٖ

“Yes, even more. The reward of seventy-thousand pilgrimages to the Kaaba!”

Then again Imam (a.s.) said,

“Yes. There are many occasions on which one’s pilgrimage to the Kaaba may not be accepted. When someone goes on pilgrimage to him (Imam Reza [a.s.]) or spends one night next to him, it is as if he has gone on the pilgrimage to Allah – the High – at His Throne.”

I asked, “Is the reward similar to going on the pilgrimage to Allah at His Throne?” The Imam (a.s.) replied,

نَعَمْ اِذَا كَانَ يَوْمُ الْقِيَامَةِ كَانَ عَلٰى عَرْشِ اللهِ تَعَالٰى اَرْبَعَةٌ مِنَ الْاَوَّلِيْنَ وَ اَرْبَعَةٌ مِنَ‏ الْآخِرِيْنَ فَاَمَّا الْاَوَّلِيْنَ فَنُوْحٌ وَ اِبْرَاهِيْمُ وَ مُوْسٰى وَ عِيْسٰى عَلَيْهِمُ السَّلَامُ وَ اَمَّا الْاَرْبَعَةُ الْآخِرُوْنَ فَمُحَمَّدٌ وَ عَلِيٌّ وَ الْحَسَنُ وَ الْحُسَيْنُ عَلَيْهِمُ السَّلَامُ ثُمَّ يُمَدُّ الْمِطْمَارُ فَتَقْعُدُ مَعَنَا زُوَّارُ قُبُورِ الْاَئِمَّةِ اِلَّا اَنَّ اَعْلَاهُمْ دَرَجَةً وَ اَقْرَبَهُمْ حَبْوَةً زُوَّارُ قَبْرِ وَلَدِي عَلِيٍّ.

“Yes. When the Resurrection Day comes, there will be four of the previous and four of the latest Divine Leaders present at the Throne of Allah – the High. Those of the previous Divine Leaders will be Nooh (a.s.), Ibrahim (a.s.), Moosa (a.s.) and Eesaa (a.s.). And those of the latest Divine Leaders will be Muhammad (s.a.w.a.), Ali (a.s.), al-Hasan (a.s.) and al-Husain (a.s.). Then a rope will be dropped from the base of the Throne, and those who have gone on pilgrimage to the shrines of the Immaculate Imams will sit there along with us. Indeed those who have gone on pilgrimage to the shrine of my son (Ali) will have the highest rank there and will receive the greatest rewards.”⁰

(7) Abd al-Azeem al-Hasani reports on the authority of Imam Jawad (a.s.) as saying,

ضَمِنْتُ لِمَنْ زَارَ اَبِيْ عَلَيْهِ السَّلَامُ بِطُوْسَ عَارِفًا بِـحَقِّهِ الْـجَنَّةَ عَلَى اللهِ تَعَالٰى.

“I guarantee Heaven on behalf of Allah – the High – for anyone who visits the shrine of my father (a.s.) in Toos recognizing his rightfulness.”⁰

(8) Abdul Azeem ibn Abdullah al-Hasani quotes that he had heard Ali ibn Muhammad al-Askari (a.s.) as saying,

اَهْلُ قُمَّ وَ اَهْلُ آبَةَ مَغْفُوْرٌ لَهُمْ لِزِيَارَتِهِمْ لِـجَدِّيْ عَلِيِّ بْنِ مُوْسَى الرِّضَا عَلَيْهِمَا السَّلَامُ بِطُوسَ اَلَا وَ مَنْ زَارَهٗ فَاَصَابَهٗ فِيْ طَرِيْقِهٖ قَطْرَةٌ مِنَ السَّمَاءِ حَرَّمَ اللهُ جَسَدَهٗ عَلَى النَّارِ.

“The sins of the people of Qum and Abat⁰ are forgiven when they go on pilgrimage to visit my grandfather Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.) buried in Toos. Know that whoever visits Imam Reza (a.s.)’s shrine, and it rains on him while he is traveling to get there, Allah will prohibit the Fire from touching his body.”⁰

Eighth traditions from Imam Reza (a.s.) about the Rewards of Visiting his Shrine

(1) Shaikh Sadooq (r.a.) narrates on his own authorities that Imam Reza (a.s.) said,

مَنْ زَارَنِيْ عَلٰى بُعْدِ دَارِيْ اَتَيْتُهٗ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ فِيْ ثَلَاثِ مَوَاطِنَ حَتّٰى اُخَلِّصَهٗ مِنْ اَهْوَالِهَا اِذَا تَطَايَرَتِ الْكُتُبُ يَـمِيْنًا وَ شِمَالًا وَ عِنْدَ الصِّرَاطِ وَ عِنْدَ الْمِيْزَانِ.

“Whoever visits me despite the far distance to my tomb, I will come to save him on the Resurrection Day on three occasions until I liberate him from his terrors: 1. When the Scroll of Deeds are handed to his right hand or in his left hands, 2. At the moment of crossing the Bridge over Hell, and 3. At the time when the Scale of Deeds (measuring the amount of good versus bad deeds) is set up.”⁰

(2) A man from Khorasan told Abul Hasan Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.), “O son of the Prophet of Allah! I saw the Prophet of Allah (s.a.w.a.) in a dream. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) asked me, ‘How will you be when one of my own flesh and blood is buried in your land, you are asked to protect my trust, and my star (Imam Reza (a.s.)) disappears in your soil?” Then Imam Reza (a.s.) told him,

اَنَا الْمَدْفُوْنُ فِيْ اَرْضِكُمْ وَ اَنَا بَضْعَةُ نَبِيِّكُمْ فَاَنَا الْوَدِيْعَةُ وَ النَّجْمُ اَلَا وَ مَنْ زَارَنِيْ وَ هُوَ يَعْرِفُ مَا اَوْجَبَ اللهُ تَبَارَكَ وَ تَعَالٰى مِنْ حَقِّيْ وَ طَاعَتِيْ فَاَنَا وَ آبَائِيْ شُفَعَاؤُهٗ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ وَ مَنْ كُنَّا شُفَعَائَهٗ نَـجَا وَ لَوْ كَانَ عَلَيْهِ مِثْلُ وِزْرِ الثَّقَلَيْنِ الْـجِنِّ وَ الْاِنْسِ وَ لَقَدْ حَدَّثَنِيْ اَبِيْ عَنْ جَدِّي عَنْ اَبِيْهِ عَنْ آبَائِهٖ عَلَيْهِمُ السَّلَامُ اَنَّ رَسُوْلَ اللهِ ؐ قَالَ مَنْ زَارَنِيْ فِيْ مَنَامِهٖ فَقَدْ زَارَنِيْ لِاَنَّ الشَّيْطَانَ لَا يَتَمَثَّلُ فِيْ صُوْرَتِيْ وَ لَا فِيْ صُوْرَةِ اَحَدٍ مِنْ اَوْصِيَائِيْ وَ لَا فِيْ صُوْرَةِ اَحَدٍ مِنْ شِيْعَتِهِمْ وَ اِنَّ الرُّؤْيَا الصَّادِقَةَ جُزْءٌ مِنْ سَبْعِيْنَ جُزْءًا مِنَ النُّبُوَّةِ.

“I am the one who will be buried in your land. I am a piece of the flesh and blood of your Prophet. I am the trusted one and I am the star. Know that whoever visits me recognizing my rightfulness and obeys me as Allah – Blessed and High be He – has made it incumbent upon him to do so – my forefathers and I will intercede on his behalf on the Resurrection Day. Whoever on whose behalf we intercede shall be saved, even if there is the heavy burden of sin of the Jinn and the men on him. In fact, my father quoted on the authority of my grandfather, on the authority of his father, on the authority of his forefathers (a.s.) that Allah’s Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said, ‘Whoever visits me in his dream, it is as if he has visited me since Satan cannot appear to be like me, or appear to be like anyone of my Testamentary Trustees (the 12 Imams). Neither can Satan appear to be like any of their followers. Indeed truthful dreams are one of the seventy parts of Prophethood.’”⁰

(3) Ali ibn al-Hasan ibn Fazzaal quoted on the authority of his father that he had heard (the 8^th Imam) Abul Hasan Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.) saying,

اَنَا مَقْتُوْلٌ وَ مَسْمُومٌ وَ مَدْفُوْنٌ بِاَرْضِ غُرْبَةٍ اَعْلَمُ ذٰلِكَ بِعَهْدٍ عَهِدَهٗ اِلَيَّ اَبِيْ عَنْ اَبِيْهِ عَنْ آبَائِهٖ عَنْ عَلِيِّ بْنِ اَبِيْ طَالِبٍ عَلَيْهِمَا السَّلَامُ عَنْ رَسُولِ اللهِ ؐ:

اَلَا فَمَنْ زَارَنِيْ فِيْ غُرْبَتِيْ كُنْتُ اَنَا وَ آبَائِيْ شُفَعَائَهٗ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ وَ مَنْ كُنَّا شُفَعَائَهٗ نَـجَا وَ لَوْ كَانَ عَلَيْهِ مِثْلُ وِزْرِ الثَّقَلَيْنِ.

“I will be killed by being poisoned and I will be buried in a strange land. This has been promised to me by my father, from his father, from his father, from his forefather, from Ali ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.), and who from Allah’s Prophet (s.a.w.a.).

Indeed, if anyone visits me in my loneliness, then my forefathers and I will intercede on his behalf on the Resurrection Day. Whoever we intercede for is saved, even if he has the burden of the sins of the jinn and the people.”⁰

(4) Abu Salt al-Harawi reports, “I was with Imam Reza (a.s.) when a group of people from Qum entered and greeted him. The Imam (a.s.) greeted them back and paid his respects to them. Then Imam Reza (a.s.) told them,

مَرْحَبًا بِكُمْ وَ اَهْلًا فَاَنْتُمْ شِيْعَتُنَا حَقًّا وَ سَيَاْتِيْ عَلَيْكُمْ يَوْمٌ تَزُوْرُوْنِيْ فِيْهِ تُرْبَتِيْ بِطُوْسَ اَلَا فَمَنْ زَارَنِيْ وَ هُوَ عَلٰى غُسْلٍ خَرَجَ مِنْ ذُنُوْبِهٖ كَيَوْمَ وَلَدَتْهُ اُمُّهٗ.

‘You are welcome. You are truly our followers. There will come a time when you will visit my shrine in Toos. Indeed, whoever visits me having already performed the ritual bathing (Ghusl) will be purified from all his sins just as the day he was born from his mother.’”⁰

(5) Bazanti has narrated that he had read a letter from Imam Reza (a.s.) in which it was written:

اَبْلِغْ شِيْعَتِيْ اَنَّ زِيَارَتِيْ عِنْدَ اللهِ تَعَالٰى تَعْدِلُ اَلْفَ حِـجَّةٍ

“Let my followers know that Allah – the High – considers visiting my shrine to be like one thousand pilgrimages (to the Holy Kaaba).”

Bazanti says: ‘I asked Imam Muhammad Taqi al-Jawad (a.s.): Reward of one thousand pilgrimages?’ The Imam (a.s.) said:

“Yes, by Allah – the High! There is the reward of one million pilgrimages to the Kaaba for anyone who visits the shrine and recognizes his rightfulness.”⁰

(6) Abd al-Salaam ibn Saaleh al-Harawi reports that he had heard Imam Reza (a.s.) saying,

اِنِّيْ سَاُقْتَلُ بِالسَّمِّ مَظْلُوْمًا وَ اُقْبَرُ اِلٰى جَنْۢبِ هَارُوْنَ وَ يَـجْعَلُ اللهُ عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ تُرْبَتِيْ مُـخْتَلَفَ شِيْعَتِيْ وَ اَهْلِ مَـحَبَّتِيْ فَمَنْ زَارَنِيْ فِيْ غُرْبَتِيْ وَجَبَتْ لَهٗ زِيَارَتِيْ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ.

وَ الَّذِيْ اَكْرَمَ مُحَمَّدًا ؐ بِالنُّبُوَّةِ وَ اصْطَفَاهُ عَلٰى جَمِيْعِ الْـخَلِيْقَةِ لَا يُصَلِّيْ اَحَدٌ مِنْكُمْ عِنْدَ قَبْرِيْ رَكْعَتَيْنِ اِلَّا اسْتَحَقَّ الْمَغْفِرَةَ مِنَ اللهِ عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ يَوْمَ يَلْقَاهُ.

وَ الَّذِيْ اَكْرَمَنَا بَعْدَ مُحَمَّدٍ ؐ بِالْاِمَامَةِ وَ خَصَّنَا بِالْوَصِيَّةِ اِنَّ زُوَّارَ قَبْرِيْ لَاَكْرَمُ الْوُفُوْدِ عَلَى اللهِ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ وَ مَا مِنْ مُۢؤْمِنٍ يَزُوْرُنِيْ فَتُصِيْبُ وَجْهَهٗ قَطْرَةٌ مِنَ الْمَاءِ اِلَّا حَرَّمَ اللهُ تَعَالٰى جَسَدَهٗ عَلَى النَّارِ.

“I shall be murdered by poison as a victim of injustice, and I will be buried next to Haroon. Allah – Blessed and High be He – will establish my grave as the place for visiting by my followers and those who love me. Whoever visits me in my loneliness, then visiting him on the Resurrection Day will become incumbent upon me.

By Him Who honored Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) with the Prophetic mission and chose him over all his creatures, whoever of you says two units prayer next to my tomb will deserve to be forgiven by Allah – Blessed and High be He – on the Day (of Judgment) you meet Him.

And by Him Who honored us with the Divine Leadership mission after Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) and made us (the twelve Imams) especial by granting us the Testamentary Trustee mission, whoever visits my shrine will be of the noblest ones who reach Allah on the Resurrection Day. Allah – the High – keeps away the Fire from the body of any believer who visits me, hits himself on the face and sheds a tear.”⁰

(7) Abdul Salaam Ibn Saaleh Harawi narrates on the authority of Imam Reza (a.s.) that he (a.s.) entered the place where Haroon Rashid (l.a.) was buried and said:

هٰذِهٖ تُرْبَتِيْ وَ فِيْهَا اُدْفَنُ، وَ سَيَجْعَلُ اللهُ هٰذَا الْمَكَانَ مُخْتَلَفَ شِيْعَتِيْ وَ اَهْلِ مَحَبَّتِيْ، وَ اللهِ مَا يَزُوْرُنِيْ مِنْهُمْ زَائِرٌ، وَ لَا يُسَلِّمُ عَلَيَّ مِنْهُمْ مُسَلِّمٌ اِلَّا وَجَبَ لَهٗ غُفْرَانُ اللهِ وَ رَحْمَتُهٗ بِشَفَاعَتِنَا اَهْلَ الْبَيْتِ.

“This is my grave. I will be buried here. Allah – the High – will establish this place to be the place where my followers and friends will come and go. By Allah, whoever visits me and sends greetings upon me will be certainly forgiven by Allah. He will benefit from Allah’s Mercy due to our intercession – the intercession of the Members of the Holy Household.”

Then he (a.s.) turned towards the Qibla and said prayers and supplications. Then he (a.s.) prostrated for a long time. I counted. He (a.s.) praised the Glory of Allah for five hundred times. Then he (a.s.) returned.⁰

(8) Yaaser, the slave of Imam Reza (a.s.) reports that Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

لَا تُشَدُّ الرِّحَالُ اِلٰى شَيْ‏ءٍ مِنَ الْقُبُوْرِ اِلَّا اِلٰى قُبُوْرِنَا اَلَا وَ اِنِّيْ مَقْتُوْلٌ بِالسَّمِّ ظُلْمًا وَ مَدْفُوْنٌ فِيْ مَوْضِعِ غُرْبَةٍ فَمَنْ شَدَّ رَحْلَهٗ اِلٰى زِيَارَتِي اسْتُجِيْبَ دُعَاؤُهٗ وَ غُفِرَ لَهٗ ذُنُوْبُهٗ.

“The load of journey cannot be fastened for any grave except for our graves. Know that surely I will be killed oppressively by poision and will be buried at a place of loneliness. Whoever visits our shrine his supplications will be accepted and his sins will be forgiven.”⁰

There is difference in the quantity and circumstances in respect of the rewards stated in the traditions about the visitation of the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.). And in order to find a solution for such types of differences in the traditions, we must pay attention towards this point.

As it is said earlier that people from all over the world, having different cultures, decorums, proprieties, etiquette, spiritual and meaningful motives come to visit the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.). All these circumstances affect the conditions of the pilgrims.

It is evident that as there is difference between the motivity of visitation of the pilgrims in the same way their rewards are also of different categories. It is also evident that whoever will be more near to Imam Reza (a.s.) according to his character, manners and faith will deserve for as much rewards.

That is why due to the spiritual and meaningful differences in the conditions of the visitation there are variations found in the quantities of rewards stated in traditions.

Whose Pilgrimage will be Accepted?

Whether the pilgrimage of only the saints of Allah is accepted or is there a way for the acceptance from the sinners? If there is any way or ways what are they?

In order to answer this question one will have to consider this point:

The possessors of a pious heart and the watchers of their hidden sanctuary (i.e. heart) and the abstinents of sins actually get the opportunity to be feasted in the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.). They are blessed by Imam (a.s.) and they return with accepted pilgrimage.

We request such persons and expect that they must pay attention on this point that there is one common calamity is the occultation of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). So first we all must pray for his (a.t.f.s.) early reappearance.

One important point is that those who cannot protect the sacred heart and damage it by their sins, how could they enter into the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) and in spite of their deficiencies, be able to get the attention of merciful Imam (a.s.)?

How could we visit the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.), attract the attention and blessings of Imam (a.s.) with such a heart which is polluted by sins, blinded the eyes and deafened the ears?

How could we be able to erase the effects of sins and get the spiritual cure from the merciful Imam (a.s.)?

In which condition and state we must go for the ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) that the holy Imam (a.s.) does not turn his face away from us rather accept our ziyaarat and consider us able for his blessings and favours in spite of all the sins and offences?

This is a very important question, answer to which has many affects. But before answering the question, let us pay attention to the following incident.

It is said that once a begger approached a king with his dirty clothes. Seeing him, the king frowned. The king’s adherent said to him: ‘O you insolent! Do you not know that coming to a king with such dirty clothes is an offence?

He replied: ‘Coming to a king with dirty clothes is not a defect, rather returning with old and dirty clothes from the court of a king is blemish.’

The king appreciated the answer. He awarded the beggar with fine and costly dresses.⁰

The event reveals that the apparent dirtiness of the beggar could not stop the favour of the king but owning to his belief on the generosity of the king he was able to receive not only the costly clothes but the king was also pleased with him.

It can be concluded from this incidence that just as the apparent dirtyness does not come in the way of the generosity of the worldly kings, in the same manner the hidden uncleanness does not come in the way of getting the favours of real sovereigns (Ahle Bait (a.s.)).

Moreover, sometimes their favours and blessings are showered immensely. This could be possible when a person adopt such measures which could attract love and affection of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). This can be in a form that a person enters through the ways which are the source of much love and favours of Ahlul Bait (a.s.).

There are some ways and means for getting this goal as seeking for meditation of some personalities of Ahlul Bait (a.s.). For e.g. Imam Reza (a.s.), Imam Jawad (a.s.) whose meditation may enable one in getting their favours in abundance.

Hereunder we shall mention certain ways and means which, due to some reasons, are favourable for the people in certain conditions.

For instance, some people work as transporters of luggage. Such people keep so much weight on their shoulders that they have to take the help of others in order to put in on the ground. Although they put the light weight on the ground at their own. The weight of the sins is also like this. Sometimes a person can repent easily and can relieve himself of the sternity of the sins. But sometimes the weight of the sins becomes so heavy that he cannot get reid of them without taking the help of someone.

Alas the weight of the sins of some people belongs to the second category and in order to get rid of them, he will have to adopt the same mode.

The person who would have left his self free and did not control it and added his sins immensely. The person who has become habitual in passing his life in darkness during the period of occultation of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) and who did not serve him in any way would not be able to distance himself from the sins and his negligence towards Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).

How could he will get salvation after passing a part of his life in sinning and negligence?

The anwer lies in the event of the person who went in the court of a king in dirty clothes but in spite of it he returned with costly clothes.

If we get the opportunity of visiting the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) and our backs are loaded with the weight of sins, although it is not appreciable, but since it is the mercy and forgiveness of Imam Reza (a.s.), so it is not a problem. But we should take care that we enter into the holy shrine loaded with sins and return from there without the load.

We should beg the kind and merciful Imam (a.s.) that we are unable to unload the weight of our sins alone so we seek your help in order to get rid of the heaviness of our sins.

Be sure that if a person with all the sincerety of heart and with deepness of his senses, expresses his incapability of getting rid of his sins then the merciful Imam (a.s.) will surely help him in unloading the weight of sins and will look towards him fervently, clean him with his sight and change him.

In order to reform ourselves we should not enter into his shrine while we have forgotten our Lord and not attentive towards our sins instead we should understand that we have become habitual of our sins and negligent towards Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) and in order to get rid of this habit, we need the help of Imam Reza (a.s.).

We must admit our faults inside the holy shrine and sincerely pray there for getting rid of the tempest of negligence.

Then the loving and affectionate sight of Imam Reza (a.s.) will remove the darkness of our heart. As a result we shall be able to be numbered amongst the brave and lion-hearted persons who fought with their selfs and succeeded.

Morality and Character of Imam Reza (a.s.)

It has been stated in Oyoon Akhbaar al-Reza (a.s.) by Ibrahim ibn Al-Abbas regarding the commendation of high morality of Imam Reza (a.s.):

“I never saw Abul Hasan Imam Reza (a.s.) be verbally crude with anyone under any circumstances.

I never saw him interrupt anyone. He always waited for them to finish talking.

I never saw him refuse to fulfill anyone’s needs that he was capable of fulfilling.

He never stretched his legs out in front of anyone. He never leaned back in front of anyone.

I never saw him reproach any of his servants or agents.

I never saw him spit.

I never saw him burst into loud laughter. Rather he (a.s.) would smile gently.

When everyone left and they spread the tablecloth out for him to dine on, he (a.s.) called every one of his servants and agents – even the door-keeper to dine with him.

He (a.s.) slept very little in the daytime. He (a.s.) was awake most of the time. He (a.s.) stayed up a lot at night – from the beginning of the night till early morning.

He fasted a lot. He (a.s.) always fasted for at least three days each month.

He (a.s.) used to say,

ذٰلِكَ صَوْمُ الدَّهْرِ

“This fasting is like fasting all year long.”

He (a.s.) often did good deeds and gave charity in secret. He (a.s.) did most of this in the darkness of the night.

If anyone claims that he has seen anyone as noble as him (a.s.), do not believe him.”⁰

Gift of Imam Reza (a.s.)

al-Yasa’ ibn Hamzah reports the following:

“Once I was in the presence of Abu al-Hasan Imam Reza (a.s.) and I was speaking to him before a large gathering that wanted to ask him about lawful and unlawful matters. At such time, a tall man of fair complexion came in and offered his greetings of peace, addressing the Imam as, ‘O son of the Messenger of Allah! I am from those who love you and your ancestors. I am coming from Hajj. I have lost my supplies as well as whatever was with me. I cannot reach my destination. If you consider it proper, help me so I can go home. It will be a great favor to me. When I arrive home, I will give as charity whatever amount you ask me to give; I am an undeserving recipient of charity.’ The Imam (a.s.) said,

‘Sit down. May Allah grant you blessing.’

He (a.s.) then spoke to people until they left. Only he (the Imam), Sulayman al-Ja’fari, Khaisamah and I remained. The Imam (a.s.) then asked,

‘Can I go inside?’

Sulayman said, ‘Allah has already given priority to your affairs.’ He (a.s.) went inside where he (a.s.) remained for a while before he (a.s.) came out and closed the door. He (a.s.) then stretched his (a.s.) hand from the top of the door and said,

‘Where is the man from Khuransan?’

The man replied, ‘Here I am.’ The Imam (a.s.) said,

‘Get this two hundred dinar, use it for expenses and enjoy its blessings. You must not give any charity on my behalf. You may leave before I see you or you see me.’

Then the Imam (a.s.) came out, and Sulayman said, ‘I pray to Allah to keep my soul in service for your cause, you have been generous and kind to him. Why did you hide your face from him?’ The Imam (a.s.) replied,

‘I was afraid to see the effect of humiliation on his face due to appealing for help. Consider the words of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) that say,

اَلْمُسْتَتِرُ بِالْـحَسَنَةِ يَعْدِلُ سَبْعِيْنَ حِـجَّةً وَ الْمُذِيْعُ بِالسَّيِّئَةِ مَخْذُوْلٌ وَ الْمُسْتَتِرُ بِهَا مَغْفُوْرٌ لَهٗ

“Giving charity out of public sight is equal in reward to seventy times performing Hajj. One who publicizes sins is disgraced, and those who do not do so are granted forgiveness.”

Consider the words of the people who lived long before:

“Whenever during a day I come to him to appeal for help,

I return home without any damage to the dignity of my face.”⁰

Imam Reza (a.s.)’s Lesson for the Needy and Prudence for the Wealthy

Bazanti says: “I mentioned something before Imam Reza (a.s.) and he (a.s.) said,

‘Exercise patience. I hope Allah will do something good for you if He so wills.’

He (a.s.) then said,

‘By Allah, He does not delay anything from a believer of the worldly things unless it is better for him than to do it for him quickly.’

He (a.s.) then belittled worldly things and said,

‘It is worthless.’

He (a.s.) then said,

‘An affluent person faces the danger of owing compulsory payments of the rights of Allah. By Allah, I may receive bounties from Allah, most Majestic, most Glorious, and I continue to be afraid until I pay off what Allah has made compulsory upon me to pay.’

I then said, ‘I pray to Allah to keep my soul in service for your cause, why you fear with such a prominent position before Allah?’ He (a.s.) replied,

‘Yes, I do and I am thankful to Allah for what He has granted me.’”⁰

Greeting and Message of Imam Reza (a.s.) for his Friends

Shaikh Mufeed (a.r.) in his book ‘al-Ikhtesaas’ reports from Abd al-Azeem Hasani, who on the authority of Imam Reza (a.s.) narrates that he (a.s.) said:

“O Abd al-Azeem, convey my greetings to my friends and tell them not to let Satan have recourse to their souls. Command them to be truthful in their speech and to return faithfully what is entrusted to them. Order them to maintain silence and leave off wrangling and disputations regarding that which does not concern them and to embark upon visiting each other for that is most beloved to me.

They must not engage in maligning each other for I have vowed that one who does that and vexes a friend of mine, then I shall call upon Allah to punish him in this world with a severe punishment and he will be from the losers in the hereafter.

And inform them that Allah has forgiven and pardoned the evil deeds of the good-doers from among them except one who associates another with Allah or hurts a friend from my friends or harbours ill-will towards him, for Allah will not forgive him till he desists from it, if he desists. However if he does not, then the spirit of faith will be removed from his heart and he will secede from my friendship. Nor will he have any luck in this world and I seek refuge in Allah from that!⁰

Servants of Imam Reza (a.s.)

Imam Reza (a.s.), while in the last days of his life, (was severely restless with the intensity of the poison) called all his servants on the dining cloth and sat with them so as to eat together.

Imam Reza (a.s.) always treated his servants with utmost care and even he (a.s.) paid special attention if he accepted anybody for his service.

The servants of Imam Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.) have more responsibility of knowing the knowledge of his (a.s.) manners and character. They should not be harsh in their temper because it is in the manners of Imam Reza (a.s.).

The attendants of the holy shrine should guide and treat the visitors with utmost kindness and affection. They must have the knowledge of the status of Imam Reza (a.s.) and they must have the feeling that in whose attendance they have stepped in. They must also take care that this holy shrine is the place of stepping in of Imam of Age (a.t.f.s.) for the last many years and he (a.s.) comes over here.

The servants of Imam Reza (a.s.) must also know that Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) and other divine saints are also present amongst the visitors of the holy shrine. They should be careful that their harsh treatment and negligence could not be the cause of the insult of the divine saints.

Apart from it, Imam Reza (a.s.) sees all his visitors with affection and love even he accepts the sinner and their repentance and regretful shame. So it is the duty of the attendants of the holy shrine to treat all the visitors with regard.

The attendants of the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) should also know that visitors from all the parts of the globe, having different cultures and manners, come for the ziyaarat. So it is apparent that amongst them there are visitors who need guidance and the harsh treatment may leave negative affects over them.

The visitors of the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) should not be treated in such a way that when they return to their homeland they feel grief-stricken and pathetic because they take the servants of Imam Reza (a.s.) with regard as a result they have more expectations from them. That is why the attendants of Imam Reza (a.s.) must have the qualities of patience, guts and endurance. They should also take care that the visitors of Imam Reza (a.s.) are their guests so they should be treated in the manner which is liked by Imam Reza (a.s.).

The attendants of Imam Reza (a.s.) should be careful about their thoughts and treatment not only in the holy shrine but they should also be repentant and regretful about their evil deeds committed by them before coming to the holy shrine by performing good deeds and seeking forgiveness.

The attendants of Imam Reza (a.s.) must also be aware that whoever has been accepted for his service, he (a.s.) considers him as his beloved and as much they have more expectations from him as much they get his graciousness.

The visitors should also be careful in treating the attendants with regards.

A Faithful Child in the presence of Imam Reza (a.s.)

Imam Reza (a.s.) is the symbol of kindness and ethics. We describe an important ethical discourse in order to get a conclusion:

It has been narrated in the Tafseer (exegesis) of Imam Hasan Askari (a.s.):

There was an uncontrollable horse in front of Imam Reza (a.s.) and some people were trying to control him but none could dare to ride over him. In the meantime a seven year old child came and said: ‘O son of Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.)! If you permit me I control and ride over this horse.’

Imam (a.s.) said: “Will you do this work?”

He said: ‘Yes.’

Imam (a.s.) said: “How will you be able to do this work?”

He said:

لِاَنِّيْ قَدِ اسْتَوْثَقْتُ مِنْهُ قَبْلَ اَنْ اَرْكَبَهٗ بِاَنْ صَلَّيْتُ عَلٰى مُحَمَّدٍ وَّ اٰلِهِ الطَّيِّبِيْنَ الطَّاهِرِيْنَ مِائَةَ مَرَّةٍ، وَ جَدَّدْتُ عَلٰى نَفْسِي الْوَلَايَةَ لَكُمْ اَهْلَ الْبَيْتِ.

‘I shall get satisfaction before riding over him by reciting salutation over Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) and his pure progeny one hundred times and would renew the wilayat of Ahlul Bait (a.s.) upon me.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said to him: “Ride over him.”

When the child mounted the horse, Imam (a.s.) ordered him to make the horse run. He did so till the horse was tired. The horse then spoke to Imam Reza (a.s.): ‘O son of Messenger of Allah! Today this rider made me tired. Either excuse me or increase my tolerance and patience.’

Then that child said that whatever is better for you (giving a ride to the believers) you should request for the same.

Imam Reza (a.s.) said: “You have spoken the truth”. Then he (a.s.) prayed the Almighty Allah to give him more strength.

The horse was pacified and started to proceed. When the child dismounted from the horse, Imam Reza (a.s.) said to the child:

“You may ask me for anything that exist in my house amongst the animals, slaves, maid-servants, wealth, etc. You are a faithful Muslim and Allah – the High – has given you fame in this world by dint of your faith.”

The child said: ‘O son of Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.)! If you permit, I have a request.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

“O believer! You may ask for whatever you want. May Allah – the High – give you Divine guidance.”

He said:

سَلْ لِيْ رَبَّكَ التَّقِيَّةَ الْـحَسَنَةَ، وَ الْمَعْرِفَةَ بِـحُقُوْقِ الْاِخْوَانِ، وَ الْعَمَلَ بِـمَا اَعْرِفُ مِنْ ذٰلِكَ

‘Ask for me from your Lord goodness of piety, awareness of the rights of brothers and award me reliance and trust to act accordingly.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

قَدْ اَعْطَاكَ اللهُ ذٰلِكَ، لَقَدْ سَاَلْتَ اَفْضَلَ شِعَارِ الصَّالِـحِيْنَ وَ دِثَارِهِمْ

“Allah has awarded you all those things you had requested for the best habits and ornament of pious servants and the thing which may protect the honour.”⁰

Important Points from the tradition

How a child lit the candle of wilayat (mastership) in his heart and controlled the horse which could not be controlled by any one else?

We may also control the rebellious horse of our self through the medium of great status of wilayat. The recognition of the great status of Infallible progeny of Ahlul Bait (a.s.) creates changes in the existence of a man by dint of which one can perform such deeds which cannot be done by others.

The recognition of the high status of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) creates the changes in the basic thinking of a person. Then a person considers his thinking different from others about the worldly and meaningful matters.

One can proceed towards perfection by practicing on the divine thoughts which comes from within oneself by which changes can be seen in the intentions and desires of oneself. Then by observing discipline in the way of Allah and Ahle Bait (a.s.) he may perform those works which can not be performed by others.

The tradition which we have stated is a glad tiding for Shia culture. Even the children may make the impossible things possible by the high status of wilayat in their existence.

We may derive the consequence from this tradition that the faith, belief and certainty over the high status of wilayat may make even a child illustrious from others in the childhood. And the way the child performed such a task which could not be performed by others, Imam Reza (a.s.) called that child a believer due to his faith and recognition.

An Important Ethical Discussion

Many scholars and intellectuals of moral science have stated many ways for self-purification which require a long period of time. Till date men has not been able to conclude them. Whenever he removes some bad habits from himself he is indulged in some other bad habits due to the longevity of the period.

That is why some elderly scholars such as late Naraqi has mentioned some solutions in his book ‘Me’raaj al-Saadah’ which are being used by other scholars.

In order to erase the ethical vices some solutions have been stated in some books which are like constructing a destroyed house that a part of it is constructed each day. It is clear that this is not the remedy. Man is also like this that by the time he is indulged in carnal desires, he eradicates a bad habit while he is entangled in another bad habit. So we should adopt such means which are fundamental and could create changes in self.

The Death of Lonliness is Better or Collective Life?

That is why some elderly scholars like late Ayatullah Mirza Mahdi Isfahani (r.a.) did not like to adopt such ways. He believed that one should adopt such means which should be basic and fundamental and which could lead a person in achieving his goal.

In order to achieve such means he suggests to ponder about death which could create complete change in one’s self so that he does not come across with spiritual and meaningful lapses. If a man ponders everyday about death which could convince his soul that sooner or later he has to depart this world. Then his self wishes and carnal desires will come to an end and he will be able to achieve higher goals. On this ground by pondering over death one can get rid of his carnal desires by defeating his self.

This is the best path in comparison to other paths which have been stated in the books written on ethics. But is there any other path which could be comprehensive in all aspects for individuals and for an association?

This is my belief that we should think about collective living instead of thinking about individual death in order to get rid of carnal desires and whims.

If people come to know that their spiritual and pondering energies have been finished during the period of occultation of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) and which they would be able to acquire during the blessed period of reappearance, then they will not be able to get satisfaction on the present lives and they will consider the period of occultation as dead.

In the same manner they would not only ponder about their own lives but they will ponder about all the persons of the world. Then they will come to know that pondering over the lives is also nourishing and decoration of lives.

Although it is true that a man can erase his ethical evils by pondering over death. But he can give life his meaningful powers by letting himself acquainted with the real life. Then the ethical evils will be no more.

The man, instead of thinking about his death, should think about the life of everyone and mutual unity.

A person instead of thinking about a short and dark grave, can also think about an illuminated world which could be lighted by the brilliance of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).

One can also wait for the universal sovereignty of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) instead of containing the moments of death.

A man can prepare himself for joining Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) instead of getting ready for death.

Yes! A person can become master of all the excellences by preparing himself for the reappearance.

According to the narration of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) waiting for the advent of Imam of the age (a.t.f.s.) is the best Jehad (struggle). So if a person becomes real watchful then he can achieve extra ordinary strength by leaving his ethical evils for remaining alive. Because one cannot get wealth without being grieved.

We should pray in the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) for becoming watchful in reality and for giving life to the dead heart and also for the reappearance of the rescuer of the universe by giving the oath to Almighty Allah of His right through the medium of the Holy Imam (a.s.).

Everyday we should give boost to our zeal and emotions for the reappearance of Imam of the age (a.t.f.s.).

In order to further explain this meaning we shall describe some couplets of De’bal.

Poems of De’bal for Imam Reza (a.s.)

De’bal ibn al-Khozaaee had, several times raised his voice about the usurpation of the right of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). The following two couplets made Imam Reza (a.s.) very much mournful and grieved and tears started flowing from his eyes:

First Couplet

اَرٰى فَيْئَهُمْ فِيْ غَيْرِهِمْ مُتَقَسَّمًا وَ اَيْدِيَهُمْ مِنْ فَيْئِهِمْ صِفْرَاتٍ‏

I find others share their share

Their hands of what is theirs are bare

When Imam Reza (a.s.) heard this couplet he (a.s.) wept bitterly and said:

صَدَقْتَ يَا خُزَاعِيُّ

“O Khozaaee! You have told the truth.”

Second Couplet

اِذَا وُتِرُوْا مَدُّوْا اِلٰى وَاتِرِيْهِمْ اَكُفًّا عَنِ الْاَوْتَارِ مُنْقَبِضَاتٍ‏

When they were pulled taut, they did stretch

Tense hands that couldn’t their muscles touch

Abul Hasan Imam Reza (a.s.) kept rubbing the palms of his hands against each other and said,

“Yes. Tense, indeed; they are tense...”⁰

Weeping of Imam Reza (a.s.) for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.)

Then De’bal continued reciting the couplets about the usurpation and then he said about Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

al-Harawi says, “I heard De’bal ibn Ali al-Khoazaaee say, ‘I recited this poem for my master Imam Reza (a.s.) which starts with:

خُرُوْجُ اِمَامٍ لَا مَـحَالَةَ خَارِجٌ يَقُوْمُ عَلَى اسْمِ اللهِ وَالْبَرَكَاتِ‏

يُـمَيِّزُ فِيْنَا كُلَّ حَقٍّ وَبَاطِلٍ وَ يُـجْزِيْ عَلَى النَّعْمَاءِ وَالنَّقِمَاتِ‏

A Divine Leader shall rise – surely he is to rise

In Allah’s name and His Blessing he shall rise

He will distinguish between right and wrong for us

He will reward the good-doers and the bad-doers he shall chastise.

Then Imam Reza (a.s.) cried hard. He (a.s.) raised up his head towards me and said,

“O De’bal Khozaaee! It was the Holy Spirit who made these verses flow out from your tongue. Do you know who that Divine Leader is? When will he rise?”

Then De’bal said, ‘No my Master! I have only heard that a Divine Leader from your progeny shall rise and cleanse the earth of corruption. He shall fill it with justice.’

Then the Imam (a.s.) said,

‘O De’bal! The Divine Leader coming after me is my son Muhammad; then after Muhammad his son Ali; then his son Hasan; and then his son al-Hujjat the Riser the Awaited one (Imam al-Mahdi [a.t.f.s.]) who will come during his absence (Ghaybah). He will be obeyed when he appears. Allah shall prolong time even if there is only one day left for him to rise and fill the earth with justice, since it has been filled with oppression and injustice.

But when will it be? This is like informing the people about the time of the arrival of the Resurrection Day.

My father quoted on the authority of his father, on the authority of his forefathers, on the authority of Ali (a.s.) who narrated that Allah’s Prophet (s.a.w.a.) was asked,

‘O Prophet of Allah! When shall the Riser who is from your progeny rise?’ The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) replied,

‘The similitude of that is like the similitude of the Hour (of Resurrection), ‘None but He can reveal as to when it will occur. Heavy were its burden through the heavens and the earth. Only, all of a sudden will it come to you.’”⁰

Weeping of Imam Reza (a.s.) and the residents of the Earth and the Sky for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.)

al-Hasan ibn Mahboob said, ‘Abul Hasan Imam Reza (a.s.) told me,

“There will be a terrible sedition which will cause the cessation of any family ties and friendships. That will be when the Shias lose my third descendant. At that time all the residents of the heavens and the Earth will cry, and all the fervent men and women plus all the sad people will shed tears.’⁰

The Imam (a.s.) then added,

“May my father and mother be the ransom for him who has the same name as my grandfather and is similar to Moosa (a.s.) – the son of Imran (a.s.). He will be covered with brilliant coverings from which the light of bright holy rays will radiate. There will be many fervent women and sad men thirsty for that delicious water! It is as if I can see them completely hopeless of finding him, when a voice from afar will be heard as if it is from nearby. It will say, ‘He is the Mercy upon the believers and the Chastisement upon the atheists.’”⁰

Supplication of Imam Reza (a.s.) for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.)

Late Mohaddis Qummi writes: Sayed Hasan Moosawi Kazmi writes in ‘Amal al-Aamel’⁰:

A shia scholar has written a book about the martyrdom of Imam Reza (a.s.) viz. ‘Taajeej-O-Neeraan al-Ahzaan Fee Wafaat-e-Sultaan-e-Khoraasaan’ He writes in it: “It has been stated that when De’bal Khozaaee recited his encomium (Qaseedah) in front of Imam Reza (a.s.) and when he reached this couplet:

خُرُوْجُ اِمَامٍ لَا مَـحَالَةَ خَارِجٌ يَقُوْمُ عَلَى اسْمِ اللهِ وَالْبَرَكَاتِ‏

Imam Reza (a.s.) got up, stood and lowered his head towards ground and kept his palm of the right hand on his head and said:

اَللّٰہُمَّ عَجِّلْ فَرَجَہٗ وَ مَخْرَجَہٗ وَ انْصُرْنَا بِہٖ نَصْرًا عَزِیْزًا

“O Allah! Hasten in his reappearance and durability. Help us through him in an unprecedented way.”⁰

The point, worth to be noted in this event is that De’bal is a Shia poet, he neither mentioned any particular name of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) nor did he quote any of his names. He only recollected the blessed period of his durability and reappearance. But Imam Reza (a.s.) stood up in order to recollect the universal sovereignty of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) and lowered his blessed head, put his palm of right hand on his head and prayed for his early reappearance. Although he (a.s.) did not heard any particular name of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

This is also a proof of extreme love of Imam Reza (a.s.) for the universal kingdom of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

The lifestyle and character of infallible Imams (a.s.) is an exemplar for all of us and all of us should follow them. The way Imam Reza (a.s.) expressed his love and affection for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.), we should also express our faith and affection on listening the name and remembering the universal kingdom of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) and try to strengthen it as much as possible.

Command of Imam Reza (a.s.) for praying for Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.)

Imam Reza (a.s.) used to perform some more acts especially for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) which may very well be understood from the couplet of De’bal. Imam Reza (a.s.) wanted to guide with his action to his lovers and shias how to express their respect for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

Imam Reza (a.s.) used to order his visitors to recite ‘Dua-e-Ghaybat’. His stress for reciting this supplication is evident from the sentence ‘وَ كَانَ یَامُرُ بِالدُّعَاءِ’. Had our insight have the capabilities, then he (a.s.) would have ordered us for the recitation of this supplication.

The visitors of the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) are strictly enjoined not to show carelessness in praying for the early reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) while they are inside the holy shrine. Because the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) is one of the places which are recommended for praying for the early advent of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

We should first ponder over our needs as soon as we enter inside the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.). In view of his dignity and Divine Powers we should not avoid in praying for our high wishes. We should also be mindful that there is no other supplication better than asking for the early reappearance of the divine Avenger of Progeny of Muhammad (a.s.).

But alas! Most of the visitors of the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) pray only for their worldly needs. This is not a proper way of praying. Particularly when someone prays for becoming a wealthy person. In most of the cases too much wealth leads towards transgression and rebellion and excess of wealth creates sense of irresponsibilities. Because this is evident that those who have less wealth their responsibilities are also minimum.

Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

“He who is satisfied with a little provision (from Allah), his little work is accepted (by Allah).”

Ibn Abi Sho’ba-e-Halabi Nawfali narrated that he went to Imam Reza (a.s.) and said: ‘I had sustenance in abundance in my life but now my condition has changed and have become beggar, please pray to Allah – the High – to increase my sustenance.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

“What do you want to become? Do you want to become a king? Will you be happy if you become like Tahir and Harsama (servants of Ma’moon)? Then you will never remain steadfast on your faith and constitution.”

He said: ‘By Allah – the High – if all the gold and silver in the world I could own and I do not remain on my faith, it will not make me happy.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

“The Almighty Allah says (in Holy Quran):

...اِعْمَلُوْٓا اٰلَ دَاوٗدَ شُكْرًا۝۰ۭ وَقَلِيْلٌ مِّنْ عِبَادِيَ الشَّكُوْرُ۝۱۳

“…give thanks, O family of Dawood! and very few of My servants are grateful.”⁰

Then he (a.s.) said:

“Have favourable opinion from Allah – the High. Whoever is satisfied on minimum sustenance, the Almighty Allah also accepts his minimum performance and whoever is satiated in minimum legitimate sustenance, his expesnses will also be minimised and his family would be prosperous. The Almighty Allah will make him indifferent of the pains and cures of this world and with all the protection he will enter Paradise.”⁰

On this ground we should be thankful to Allah – the High – and we should not consider the worldly requirements all in all and we should ponder over the meaningful desires and we should always be mindful that the biggest meaningful desire (through which the worldly wishes shall also be fulfilled) is to pray for the early reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

This is the important and basic point that we should not pray for the early reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) for our own selves but for infallible Imams (a.s.) resulting in that we shall get comfort and satisfaction. Because it is the duty of all of us that we should prefer Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) and his pure progeny (a.s.) over our family.

Now we should ponder over this event: We all know that the extreme oppressions would be inflicted upon Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) till the reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) and the inflictions and calamities are still being operated on the holy family of revelations (a.s.). That is why we should recite in our prayers ‘اَللّٰهُمَّ عَجِّلْ لِوَلِيِّكَ الْفَرَج’. In the same manner many more interpretations, through which, we pray the Almighty Allah for the reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.). The reappearance would be affected when there are troubles and calamities.

Thus it is evident that oppressions and tyrannies upon progeny of Muhammad (a.s.) are still being operated. That is why we beseech Almighty Allah for the reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

Now although our society has been suffering by the calamities but at the same time oppression over Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) and his pure progeny (a.s.) are still continued. So this is our foremost duty to try to scrape out all these calamities through our invocations. If we are able to do this so it is as if we prayed for us as well.

A person saw a woman in the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) who was weeping bitterly. The woman told that man, ‘My husband has left me alone with four daughters. Now I don’t have any money to pay the rent of my house and the owner of the house has thrown away all my luggage outside the house. In this condition what should I do?

That person helped her with some money but since he was unable to solve her problem by providing her with a rented house he entered the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) in dejected condition and requested him: “O my master! On account of such oppressed presons I want you to invoke Almighty Allah for the reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) so that the period of occultation come to an end. All of a sudden he became attentive that as if Imam Reza (a.s.) oracled to him:

“The biggest oppression is the oppression and calamity operated upon us Ahlul Bayt (a.s.).”⁰

We hope that soon Allah – the High – give permission to Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) for his establishment and taking the revenge so that the oppressions and calamities could come to an end from the whole world.

Two common specialties between Imam Reza (a.s.) and Imam Zamana (a.t.f.s.)

As we have stated earlier about the love of Imam Reza (a.s.) with Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.), now we would like to state common specialities between Imam Reza (a.s.) and Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.). Only two specialities between them would be pointed out:

(1) Discussion on establishing proofs and logical reasons

Amongst the common specialities between Imam Reza (a.s.) and Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) is the establishment of proofs and logical reasons for the adversaries.

Imam Reza (a.s.) used to hold discussions with the adversaries and overpower them. In the same manner Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) will also hold discussions with the adversaries and will present proofs and logical reasons for all the persons of the world. To be more clear we specify as follows:

(1) Establishment of proofs and logical reasons by Imam Reza (a.s.)

Imam Reza (a.s.), during the period of his Imamat from his operative consultation was to hold discussions and religious contests in order to establish proofs and logical reasons for the existence of Almighty Allah, Islamic constitution and the facts about school of Shias.

Imam Reza (a.s.) held discussions with many scholars of that time in their languages, without the medium of any interpretor, irrespective of their faith, nation or thoughts he (a.s.) rejected and condemned their faith.

These discussions and religious contests, from public platform proved very much beneficial for the verification of school of Shia. There are so many events in the history regarding Imam Reza (a.s.) holding discussions with the scholars of other religions. His defeating and over-powering them and they had to accept are produced hereunder:

Mohammad Ibn Fazl Hashmi reports:

When I went to meet Imam Moosa Ibn Ja’far (a.s.) one day before his martyrdom he (a.s.) said:

“Take these trusts to Madinah after my death and give them to my son Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.). He is proof of Almighty Allah and Imam after me.”

Mohammad Ibn Fazl Hashmi says: I went to Madinah and met Imam Reza (a.s.), handed over all the trusts to him and said:

“I am going to Basra and there the news of the martyrdom of your father would have spread. They will ask me about your Imamat. Will you please be kind enough to show me some of the proofs of your Imamat.”

Imam Reza (a.s.) showed me some special tokens and sacred relics of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) which had been in possession of infallible Imams (a.s.).

Then he (a.s.) said: “I shall come to Basra.”

I asked: ‘When will you be able to come to Basra?’

He (a.s.) said: “Three days after your departure.”

After taking the permission of Imam Reza (a.s.) I returned to Basra. When my friends came to me, I told them the whole story.

A naasbi⁰ Amr Ibn Hazzaab objected and said: ‘Hasan Ibn Mohammad deserved for the place of Imamat because he is the eldest in Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). He is also pious and worshipper. But Ali Ibn Moosa (a.s.) is young, perhaps he will not be capable of religious verdicts.’ In the meantime Hasan Ibn Mohammad came and said: ‘Mohammad Hashimi is saying that Ali Ibn Moosa (a.s.) is coming to Basra after three days. This is itself a proof so we should wait for three days.’

People dispursed from there. On the third day Imam Reza (a.s.) came and stayed in the house of Hasan Ibn Mohammad who took the responsibility of serving Imam Reza (a.s.). Imam (a.s.) invited all his friends, Jews, Christians and elders for a meeting and then he (a.s.) addressed them saying:

“I am Ali Ibn Moosa Ibn Ja’far Ibn Mohammad Ibn Ali Ibn Husain Ibn Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.). Today when I perform the Morning Prayer in masjid al-Nabi in Madinah, the ruler of Madinah came to me and consulted me about certain matters. I gave him good advice and promised him that I shall return towards him at the time of Asr, so whoever wanted to ask me about the signs and proofs of Imamat he may ask.’

Amr Ibn Hazzaab stood up and said: ‘Whatever Mohammad Ibn Fazl Hashmi has told us on your behalf is not acceptable.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said: “What did he tell you?”

He said: He is saying that you have got the knowledge of all the heavenly books and all the languages of the world.

Imam Reza (a.s.) said: “He is telling the truth, whatever you want to ask go ahead.”

He said that we have invited the people from Rome, Sindh, Persia,Turkey, etc. So as to test and examine you. If you are telling the truth then you should speak to each one of them. Then Imam Reza (a.s.) talked all of them in their own languages and tone and answered their questions which surprised all and accepted that the Imam (a.s.) talks more eloquently than all of them.

Then Imam Reza (a.s.) said to Amr Ibn Hazzaab, “Will you testify if I tell you that after some days you will kill one of your relatives?”

He said: ‘No I will not testify as nobody knows the hidden except Almighty Allah.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said: “But do you not know what Allah – the High – has said (in Holy Quran):

عٰلِمُ الْغَيْبِ فَلَا يُظْہِرُ عَلٰي غَيْبِہٖٓ اَحَدًا۝۲۶ۙ اِلَّا مَنِ ارْتَضٰى مِنْ رَّسُوْلٍ...

The Knower of the unseen! so He does not reveal His secrets to any. Except to him whom He chooses as an apostle;…⁰

“We are also the heirs of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.). So we know whatever has already happened and whatever will happen till the Day of Judgement. You will kill your relative after five days. If this does not happen, you may reject me as Imam.”

Then he (a.s.) said: “After some days you will become blind, take false oath and suffer from leprosy.”

The narrator says: ‘I swear by Allah – the High – all the prophecies of Imam (a.s.) occured after few days.’

Then Imam (a.s.) conversed with Jews and Christian scholars in their own languages and proved the prophethood of the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) from their own books.

All of them accepted the truthfulness of Imam (a.s.) and said: ‘We could have accepted your faith had there not been the rulership of Jews and Christians upon us.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) answered to all the question asked by them and fulfilled their requirements, performed the Zohr prayer in congregation and then said: “Now I am going back to Madinah and if Almighty Allah wills I shall return tomorrow.”

Next day the atmosphere again filled with the fragrance of paradise. The darkness of night of waiting dispersed and the people of Basra once again got the opportunity of the ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.). Once again the moon of Imamat ascended and illuminated the people of Basra.

They presented a maid servant of Rome to Imam (a.s.). Imam (a.s.) talked to her in Roman language and said:

“O servant! Whom do you love more, Hazrat Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) or Eesaa (a.s.)?”

She said: ‘By the time I was not acquainted with Hazrat Mohammad (s.a.w.a.) I loved Eesaa (a.s.). But now as I have got the acquaintance of Hazrat Mohammad (s.a.w.a.), so I love him most.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said: “Now that you have got the acquaintace of Hazrat Mohammad (s.a.w.a.) then do you not love Eesaa (a.s.)?”

She said: ‘Why not, but I love Hazrat Mohammad (s.a.w.a.) most.’

Jaasaleeq, with the permission of Imam (a.s.), translated this conversation for the people and said to Imam (a.s.): A Christian theologian from Sindh is there, if you permit, we bring him in your presence.

Imam Reza (a.s.) said: “No problem.”

When that person came, Imam Reza (a.s.) talked to him in Sindhi language and discussed with him on the subjects of unity of Almighty Allah and messengership and established proofs in this regard till that person witnessed upon the unity of Almighty Allah and the messengership of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and tore off his Zunnaar.⁰

Imam Reza (a.s.) asked the people: “Do you now have faith on whatever Mohammad Ibn Fazl has said?”

They replied: ‘Your status is proved for us more than whatever Mohammad Ibn Fazl had narrated. In the same way Mohammad Ibn Fazl had told us that you will be taken to Khorasan, is it true?’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said: “Yes.”

All the people accepted the Divine Leadership of Imam Reza (a.s.) and left.

Rain of mercy showered over the hearts of the people of Basrah and the proof (of Imamat) was completed upon them. The people of Basrah spent the night in the service of Imam Reza (a.s.).

At last the night of meeting passed off and came the day of departure. Imam Reza (a.s.) said goodbye to all and left.

Mohammad Ibn Fazl says: ‘I accompanied Imam Reza (a.s.). In the way we stayed at a place where Imam Reza (a.s.) prayed four units of namaz and said: “O Mohammad! Close your eyes.” When I opened my eyes I found myself at the door of my house in Basrah but Imam Reza (a.s.) was out of sight.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) had ordered me to go to Kufa and inform the Shias that eighth Imam (a.s.) will come to Kufa and will stay at the house of Hafs Ibn Umair.

I fulfilled my responsibility and Imam (a.s.) came there and ordered to invite Jew and Christian intellectuals. Imam (a.s.) spoke to them in their own languages and proved his own and his forefathers truthfulness and said to Jaasleeq of Christians:

“Do you know that Hazrat Eesaa (a.s.) had an epistle on which five names were written that whenever he wanted to go anywhere from East to West and from West to East he used to invoke Almighty Allah through the medium of one of those names and would cover the distance within a moment?”

Jaasleeq said: ‘It was so but I don’t know those names.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

“After the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) there is not a single Imam or proof of Allah – the High – but he had the knowledge of all the sciences and accomplishments of prophets, knowledge of all the heavenly books, able to converse in all the languages of the world, having knowledge of all the languages and remained away from all sorts of evil.”⁰

One more instance of discussion of Imam Reza (a.s.) with elderly scholars of that time

Mohammad Ibn Umar Ibn Abd al-Azeez Ansari says who had himself heard from Hasan Ibn Mohammad Nawfali who narrated for me:

When Imam Reza (a.s.) went to Ma’moon, Ma’moon ordered Fazl ibn Sahl to summon the prominent theologians from among the rhetoricians and the religious such as Jaasaleeq⁰, the high Rabbi, the Hindu high priest, followers of Zoroaster⁰, Nestus Rumi and expert linguists so that they could listen the conversation of Imam Reza (a.s.). Fazl ibn Sahl gathered them and informed Ma’moon about the meeting.

Ma’moon granted them permission to enter and received them with hospitality. Then he said: ‘I have gathered you for (something) good and want you to have a debate with my cousin from Madina who will come to me. Come to me tomorrow morning. None of you should be absent.’ All of them said: ‘We have listened your order and will obey you. We will be here early in the morning.’

Hasan Ibn Nawfali said: ‘We were talking to Imam Reza (a.s.) when Yasir – the servant who was in charge of serving Imam Reza (a.s.) – entered and told him: ‘O my Master! Ma’moon has expressed his greetings to you and said, May your brother be your ransom! Indeed scholars from all religions and masters of speech from all nations have gathered together with me. Would you like to come to us and have a discussion with them? If you do not wish to do so, do not bother yourself. Even if you prefer, we do not mind coming to you, it would be easier for us.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) sent him message saying:

“Express my greetings to him and tell him that I understand what you mean. Almighty Allah willing, I will come to you myself tomorrow morning.”

al-Hasan ibn Muhammad al-Nawfali said, ‘When Yasir went out, the Imam (a.s.) turned to me and said, “O Nawfali! You are an Iraqi, and an Iraqi’s heart is not hard. So, what do think is your cousin’s intention in setting up a meeting between me and the pagans and scholars?”

al-Nawfali answered, “May I be your ransom! He wants to test you, and wants to know how much knowledge you possess. He has, indeed, based his assumption on shaky grounds. By Allah, what he has set up is dangerous.”

The Imam (a.s.) asked, “And what has he set up?”

al-Nawfali said, “The theologians and the heretics are different from the scholars. That is because a scholar does not deny the undeniable, whereas rhetoricians, theologians, and polytheists are people who deny things and try to prove what is not true. If you argue with them and tell them that Allah is One, they would say, ‘Prove His Oneness’, and if you say that Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) is the Messenger of Allah, they would say, ‘Prove his Prophethood.’ May I be your ransom! They confuse you and make you disprove your own proofs. They continue these false accusations until you back off.”

al-Nawfali added, “Then the Imam (a.s.) smiled and told me, “O Al-Nawfali! Do you fear that they will disprove my argument?’”

al-Nawfali said, ‘No, by Allah! I have never worried about you, and I hope that God willing, Allah will make you victorious over them!’

The Imam (a.s.) asked again, ‘O Nawfali! Would you like to know when Ma’moon will feel regretful?’ He answered, ‘Yes.’ The Imam (a.s.) said, “When he (Ma’moon) hears me argue with the people of the Torah quoting their own Torah, with the people of the Gospel quoting their own Gospel, with the people of the Psalms quoting their own Psalms, with the Zoroastrians arguing in their Persian language, with the Romans in their own Latin, and with the rhetoricians using their very own rhetoric. So, if I close the avenues of argument in the face of each arguing party and disprove his claim, making him renounce his statement from its onset and referring to my own statement, then Ma’moon will realize that he has not achieve what he aspires to achieve. It is then that he will feel regretful. And there is no strength save in the Highest, the Almighty Allah.’”

On the following day, al-Fazl ibn Sahl went in a hurry to see the Imam (a.s.) and told him, “May I be your ransom! Your cousin is waiting for you. The people have gathered together. When will you go to him?”

Imam Reza (a.s.) told him, “You go ahead. God willing, I will come to you.” Then he (a.s.) made ablutions for praying, drank something, ate some soup with us and we all left. Then we reached Ma’moon’s palace. The meeting was full of people. Muhammad ibn Ja’far, some of the Talibites and the Hashemites, and the Commanders of the Army were amongst those present.

When Imam Reza (a.s.) entered, Ma’moon stood up. Muhammad ibn Ja’far and all the Hashemites who were present there stood up for him. The Imam (a.s.) and Ma’moon sat down while all the people were still standing, until Ma’moon ordered them to sit down. Ma’moon talked to the Imam (a.s.) for a while. Then Ma’moon turned to the Catholic Archbishop and said, “O Catholic Archbishop! This is my cousin Ali ibn Moosa ibn Ja’far (a.s.). He is one of the children of (the Blessed Lady) Faatemah (s.a.) – the daughter of our Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) – and Ali ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.). I would like you to have a debate with him and be fair with him.

The Catholic Archbishop said, “O Commander of the Faithful! How can I argue with a man who argues with me using a Book which we have denied and a Prophet whom I do not believe in?”

Imam Reza (a.s.) told him, “O Christian! Will you accept it if I present proofs from your Gospel?”

The Catholic Archbishop said, “How could I reject what the Bible speaks about? I swear to Allah that I will accept it even if I dislike it.”

Imam Reza (a.s.) told him, “Ask whatever you wish to ask and receive your answer.”

The Catholic Archbishop said, “What is your opinion about the Prophethood of Eesaa (a.s.) and his Book? Do you deny either one of them?”

Imam Reza (a.s.) gave proof from the Bible that the names of our Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) has been mentioned in the Bible. Then Imam Reza (a.s.) told him the numbers of disciples of Eesaa (a.s.) and their affairs and proved from many proofs and he accepted it. Then he (a.s.) demonstrated some other books. Till Catholic Archbishop said: ‘If anyone else, other than me, questions you, I swear by the right of Eesaa! I could not conceive that there is a personality like you amongst the Muslim scholars.’

Then Imam Reza (a.s.) turned towards Raas al-Jaalut and proved with the reason from Torah and Psalms, Book of Sha’ya and Haiqooq till he also calmed down and he also did not have anything to say.

Then Imam Reza (a.s.) turned towards High Rabbi, the Zoroastrian scholar and put the arguments over him. When he also become unanswerable, Imam Reza (a.s.) turned towards the listerners and said: “O people! If any of you is opposed to Islam and wants to ask me any questions, then let him ask me without any shame.”

Imran al-Sa’bee who was an expert in theology stood up and said, ‘O Scholar of the people. I would not have asked you any questions if you had not invited me to ask. I have been to Kufa, Basra, Syria and Algeria. There I have met many theologians. However, none of them has been able to establish for me the proof that there is One who has no second other than Him and that He remains to be One Being. Will you permit me to ask you this question?’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said, “If Imran al-Sab’ee is present among the people here, it must be you.” He said, “Yes. This is me.” The Imam (a.s.) said, “O Imran! Ask. But I advise you to be fair. Avoid vain talk and nonsense.” Imran said, “My Master! By Allah! I just want you to prove something which I can adhere to for me. Then I need not seek anything else.” Imam Reza (a.s.) said, “Ask whatever you wish to ask.” The crowd moved closer to Imran. Imam (a.s.) answered his questions with reasoning. The debate took time and the prayer time started. Then the Imam (a.s.) turned to Ma’moon and told him, “Now it is time to pray.”

Imran said, “O my Master! Do not interrupt my questions since I am feeling inclined towards you in my heart.”

Imam Reza (a.s.) said, “We will pray and come back.”

Then the Imam (a.s.) stood up. Ma’moon got up, too. Then Imam Reza (a.s.) prayed inside and the people prayed outside led by Muhammad ibn Ja’far. Then the Imam (a.s.) came out, returned to the meeting, called out to Imran and said, “O Imran! Ask your questions.”

He questioned about the attributes of Almigty Allah and Imam (a.s.) answered to all his questions and said: “O Imran! Have you understood?”

Imran said, “Yes, my Master. I understood. I bear witness that the Sublime Allah is as you described Him to be, He is One. I also witness that Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) - his servant - is appointed to guide and lead to the right religion.” He then faced the Qibla and fell into prostration and accepted Islam.

al-Hasan ibn Muhammad al-Nawfali said, “When the other rhetoricians heard what Imran al-Sa’bee – who was very hard to defeat in arguments and no one had ever defeated him before in arguments – none of them dared approach Imam Reza (a.s.), and they asked him no more questions. Slowly the sun set. Then Ma’moon and Imam Reza (a.s.) stood up, went inside and the people left.

I was sitting along with some of my friends when Muhammad ibn Ja’far called me in. I went to see him.

He told me, ‘O Nawfali! Did you see what your friend (the Imam (a.s.)) did?” al-Nawfali replied, “By Allah! No. I did not think that Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.) could plumb such depths. I did not know that him in this way. He never spoke about theology in Madinah and theologians never gathered around him.”

I said, “The pilgrims come to him and ask him about the lawful and the unlawful and he answers them. Sometimes rhetoricians come to him and argue with him, and he plunges into theology.”

Muhammad ibn Ja’far said, “O Aba Muhammad! I fear that this man (i.e. Ma’moon) will envy him, poison him or injure him. So advise him to refrain from these things.”

al-Nawfali added, “I said, ‘He will not listen to me. This man (Ma’moon) only wants to test him to see whether he possesses any of the knowledge of his forefathers (a.s.).’

He told me, “Tell him that his uncle does not like him to do such things and wishes him to quit doing these things.”

When we returned to Imam Reza (a.s.)’s house I related to the Imam (a.s.) the message from his uncle. Then the Imam (a.s.) smiled and said, “May Allah (s.w.t.) protect my uncle. I know him well. Why is he upset? O servant! Go to Imran al-Sa’bee and bring him here.”

I said, “May I be your ransom! I know where he is. He is with some of the Shiite brethren.”

The Imam (a.s.) said, “Don’t worry. Take a horse for him to ride on and bring him here.”

I went and brought Imran. The Imam (a.s.) welcomed him and asked for a robe of honor which he (a.s.) put on Imran. The Imam (a.s.) also gave him a horse and asked for ten-thousand Dinars which he (a.s.) donated to Imran.

I said, “May I be your ransom! You have followed in the footsteps of your grandfather – the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.).”

The Imam (a.s.) said, “We prefer this.”

Then the Imam (a.s.) ordered dinner and had me sit on his right side and had Imran sit on his left side. After eating dinner, the Imam (a.s.) told Imran, “Go now and come back in the morning. Then I will give you food from Madinah.”

From then on many people came to Imran to have a debate. He used to respond to their arguments and disprove them until they left.⁰

The interesting debates of Imam Reza (a.s.) were being circulated in the whole country which gave boost to the popularity of Imam Reza (a.s.). Until it was feared that the sovereignty of Ma’moon and the whole Bani Abbas see the downfall.

Therefore, he (Ma’moon), in order to save his position and to defeat Imam Reza (a.s.) and in order to achieve his dirty goal, planned some programmes. But he could never succeed in his adaptations. But the hearts of the people were filled with the love of Imam Reza (a.s.). At last this shinning Sun set.

One can very well understand the unlimited scholastic capabilities of Imam Reza (a.s.) due to his success in many debates.

Yes! Owning to the astonishing miracles of Imam Reza (a.s.) and his debates with the noted scholars of the time, his popularity was boosted. At last Ma’moon decided to murder the Imam (a.s.).

Harsama ibn A’yan says, “I went to see my Master and Friend – that is Imam Reza (a.s.) – in the Ma’moon’s house. It was announced in Ma’moon’s house that Imam Reza (a.s.) has died. However, this was not right. I entered and sought permission to visit Imam Reza (a.s.).”

Harsama added, “There was a young man called Sabeeh al-Daylami among the trusted servants of Ma’moon who really liked my Master (Imam Reza (a.s.)). That man came out and saw me. He said,

‘O Harsama! Don’t you know that I am a trusted servant of Ma’moon in public and in private?’ I said, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘O Harsama! Ma’moon called me and thirty other trusted servants early in the night. I went to him. There were so many lights there which made the night seem like the day. There were many poisoned swords in front of him. He called us over one by one and made us pledge. No one else was there.

He said, ‘This pledge is binding upon you. You must be loyal and do whatever I order you to do without any hesitation.’ We swore to carry out his orders.

Then Ma’moon said, ‘Each of you should pick up one of these swords and go to Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.)’s room. Do not talk to him whether you find him standing up, sitting or asleep. Just strike him (referring to Imam Reza (a.s.)) with these swords; and destroy his body, bones, blood, hair and brains. Then cover him up with the rugs and wipe your swords by rubbing them on the rugs. Then come to me. If you do this and keep it a secret, I have promised myself to give each one of you ten bags of Dirhams, ten select pieces of farmland, and not take these things away from you for as long as I live.’ We picked up the swords and went to Imam Reza (a.s.)’s room. We found him sleeping on his side, moving his fingers and saying something which we could not understand.

The other servants went ahead and started to strike him with their swords, but I dropped my sword and just kept looking at him. It was as if he (a.s.) knew that we would attack him. He had not held up anything which could block the swords. Then the servants dropped the rugs over him and returned to Ma’moon. Ma’moon asked us, ‘What did you do?’

They said, ‘O Commander of the Faithful! We did what we were ordered to do.’ Ma’moon said, ‘Do not say anything about this anywhere.’

When dawn came, Ma’moon came out. He sat in his condolence meeting bare-headed. He unbuttoned his shirt, declared that the Imam (a.s.) has died and prepared to mourn for him. He then stood up and started to walk away. I was with him. He went towards the Imam (a.s.)’s room and opened the door. Ma’moon got shocked when he heard Imam Reza (a.s.)’s voice. Then Ma’moon asked me, ‘Who is there with him (referring to Imam Reza (a.s.))?’

I replied, ‘O Commander of the Faithful! I do not know.’ Ma’moon said, ‘Hurry up. Look and see who is with him.’

We rushed towards Imam Reza (a.s.) and saw him kneeling down in his prayer niche praying and expressing Allah’s glorifications.

I said, ‘O Commander of the Faithful! I see someone praying and expressing Allah’s glorifications in the prayer niche.’

He got shocked and surprised and said, ‘Then you have lied to me and fooled me. Allah damn you! He looked at me amongst the people and said, ‘O Sabeeh! You know Imam Reza (a.s.). Look and see who is praying.’

I entered the room and Ma’moon returned. When I reached the threshold of the door, the Imam (a.s.) raised his voice and said, ‘O Sabeeh!’

I fell down on my face and said, ‘Yes my Master!’

He (a.s.) said, ‘Stand up. May Allah have Mercy upon you.

يُرِيْدُوْنَ لِيُطْفِــــُٔـوْا نُوْرَ اللہِ بِاَفْوَاہِہِمْ وَاللہُ مُتِمُّ نُوْرِہٖ وَلَوْ كَرِہَ الْكٰفِرُوْنَ۝۸

They desire to put out the light of Allah with their mouths but Allah will perfect His light, though the unbelievers may be averse.⁰

I returned to Ma’moon. His face had turned black like a dark night.

Ma’moon asked, ‘What did you find after I left?’

I said, ‘O Commander of the Faithful! I swear by Allah that the Imam (a.s.) was sitting in his room, called out to me and said these things.’

Ma’moon buttoned up his shirt, ordered that his robes be brought, put them on and said, ‘Announce that the Imam (a.s.) had fainted but is fine now.’”

Harsama added, “I expressed a lot of thanks and praise to Allah - Mighty and Majestic be He -. Then I went in to see my Master Imam Reza (a.s.). When the Imam (a.s.) saw me, he (a.s.) said,

‘O Harsama! Do not express what you heard Sabeeh tell you about me, except for those whose hearts have been tested by Allah for loving us and our Mastery.’

I said, ‘Yes. My Master!’ Then the Imam (a.s.) said,

‘O Harsama! I swear by Allah that their trickery will not harm me at all until the recorded time (i.e. of the murder of Imam Reza (a.s.)) arrives.’⁰

(1) Establishment of logic and reasoning of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.)

As the debates of Imam Reza (a.s.) with the scholars of different places, in their own languages, added his love in the hearts of the people. Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.), during the period of his reappearance, will establish dialectic with logic and reasoning in the whole universe. On account of which people of the world will join the rows of faithful Muslims enmasse without taking the swords in their hands.⁰

Imam Hasan Mujtaba (a.s.) on the authority of the Commander of the faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) narrated that he said:

يَـمْلَاُ الْاَرْضَ عَدْلًا وَ قِسْطًا وَ نُوْرًا وَ بُرْهَانًا

Imam Zamana (a.t.f.s.) will fill up the whole world with justice, equality, light and reasoning.⁰

That is why ‘Hujjat’ (Proof) is one of the epithets of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). Because the Imam (a.t.f.s.) will actuate completion of Proof on the people and he (a.s.) will solve the prolems with logic. This is the common attribute between Imam Reza (a.s.) and Imam Zamana (a.t.f.s.).

(2) Elegance and Grace

Another common attribute between Imam Reza (a.s.) and Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is this that both the Imams (a.s.) are very much kind to people. There are many reasonings in this regard but we shall state precisely.

(1) Graces and favours of Imam Reza (a.s.)

Imam Reza (a.s.) is so much kind upon the people that almost every one is aware of it. Apart from the existence of many traditions in this regard, so many miracles are evident of his graces and favors.

The favors of Imam Reza (a.s.) over two Christian youth⁰ is an open proof that his favours were reserved not only for his Shias but he (a.s.) was kind enough on others as well.

Now we describe hereunder an event wherein it is said that how Imam (a.s.) activated his favours by taking a dead body in his elegance.

Imam Reza (a.s.) and the dead body of a Shia

Ibn Shahr-e-Aashob narrated on the authority of Moosa Ibn Sayyaar that he said:

I was in the company of Imam Reza (a.s.) in his journey to Khorasan. As we approached Toos and the walls of the city became visible, I heard the sound of mourning and lamenting.

I followed the sound and found it was a funeral. At this moment, Imam Reza (a.s.) dismounted his horse, went toward the dead body, sympathized with the mourners and prayed for the dead person. Then he faced me and said,

“O Moosa Ibn Sayyaar, whoever takes part in the funeral of one of our friends; they will be exonerated from sins just like when they were newly born with no sins”.

When the dead body was laid next to the grave, Imam Reza (a.s.) went near, pushed the people aside, put his blessed hand on the chest of the dead man, and said,

“O so and so, glad tidings of Paradise to you! You will have no fear anymore.”

I said, ‘May I be your ransom! You have not traveled to this land before. How do you know this man?’ He (a.s.) said,

‘O Moosa! Do you not know that the deeds of our Shias are presented to us every morning and evening; we ask Allah – the Sublime’s pardon for any shortcoming that exists in their deeds and request Him to grant them gratitude for the excellent deeds they have undertaken.”⁰

A sinner youngster but lover of Imam Reza (a.s.)

Elderly narrator Ahmad al-Din Tabari quotes Ibrahim Ibn Abi al-Ballad as saying:

My neighbor was a drunkard man and Allah – the High – knows better what other illegal acts he was involved in but in spite of it he was a lover of Imam Reza (a.s.).

One day when I informed Imam Reza (a.s.) about this event then Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

يَا اَبَا اِسْحَاق، اَ مَا عَلِمْتَ اَنَّ وَلِيَّ عَلِيٌّ عَلَيْهِ السَّلَامُ لَمْ تَزَلَّ لَهٗ قَدَمٌ اِلَّا وَ يَثْبُتُ لَهٗ اُخْرٰى؟

“O Abu Ishaq! Do you know that if a step of any of the lovers of Ali (a.s.) is beguiled, his another step is firm?”

Ibrahim said: When I took the permission of Imam (a.s.) to depart he (a.s.) gave me a letter in which he (a.s.) has ordered to purchase certain things in sixty dinars.

I said to myself: By Allah – the High, it did not happen even earlier that something was written for me because I do not have anything nor did I have anything (like khums, etc.)

In the night somebody knocked the door. I marked that some intoxicated person is calling me. When I went behind the door, he called to come out.

Although he was unable to speak properly being intoxicant but he said: Stretch your hand and take this bag and give it to my Master (a.s.) so that he could spend at his will.

I took that bag and saw that there were sixty dinars in it.

I said: By Allah – the High! It is as per the saying of my Master Imam Reza (a.s.) which he (a.s.) has said about the love and friendship of Imam Ali (a.s.).

I purchased all those things which Imam Reza (a.s.) had asked for and also written in the end about that neighbour and sent to Imam (a.s.).

Imam Reza (a.s.) wrote: “This is one of those matters.”

One can get benefit from this event that the basis of every matter is the love and guardianship of Infallible Imams (a.s.) which will become the cause of salvation in the end for their friends and lovers of their Wilayat. Acceptance of a gift of a sinning person and showering upon him their favours and blessings is a proof.

Such events are the proof for the mercy, favours and kindness of Imam Reza (a.s.) for his Divine Court to know that anybody can get the protection and guardianship alongwith the blessings and kindness of the infallible and pious Imams (a.s.) from his childhood to youth and old age even after his death and departing from this world.

We should give value to each and every moment inside the holy shrine of our compassionate Imam Reza (a.s.) and must be aware of the fact that it is possible to get the spiritual change in us while in visiting the shrine and a favourable glance of Imam (a.s.) may become the cause of getting high status.

(2) Grace and favours of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.)

The grace and favours of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.), during the period of his manifestation, will not be reserved only for his Shias only but people of the whole universe will be graced and favoured.

Late Allama Majlisi reports that Allah – the High – had showed the illumination of infallible Imams (a.s.) and said to him:

“They are the mediators for you and for every obedient servant from my creature.”

Then Hazrat Adam (a.s.) observed:

فَاِذَا شَبَحٌ فِيْ آخِرِهِمْ يَزْهَرُ فِيْ ذٰلِكَ الصَّفِيْحِ كَمَا يَزْهَرُ كَوْكَبُ الصُّبْحِ لِاَهْلِ الدُّنْيَا فَقَالَ اللهُ تَبَارَكَ وَ تَعَالٰى وَ بِعَبْدِيْ هٰذَا السَّعِيْدِ اَفُكُّ عَنْ عِبَادِيَ الْاَغْلَالَ وَ اَضَعُ عَنْهُمُ الْآصَارَ وَ اَمْلَاُ اَرْضِيْ بِهٖ حَنَانًا وَ رَاْفَةً وَ عَدْلًا كَمَا مُلِئَتْ مِنْ قَبْلِهٖ قَسْوَةً وَ قَشْعَرِيَّةً وَ جَوْرًا

He observed the illumination of the last of the fourteen infallible Imams (i.e. Imam Zamana (a.t.f.s.)) like the light of the Morning Star shines on the people of this world. The Almighty Allah said to Hazrat Adam (a.s.): ‘By the mediation of this holy and obedient person I shall give salvation to my servants and shall give salvation to my servants and shall release them from their hardships and difficulties and I shall fill the whole world with my mercy, kindness and justice as it would be filled with atrocities, wretchedness and oppressions’.” ⁰

So it is our duty to perform our responsibility by praying for the early manifestation of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) (who is the symbol of blessings and grace) so that we could see the blessings and favours of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) before the establishment of his universal sovereignty.

A very important event

Kindness of Imam Reza (a.s.) and Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) upon two Christian youth

A reliable person said: ‘I met two American students in a friend’s house in the holy city of Mashhad. They were husband and wife. They told a very surprising event on the insistence of the host.’

Both of them said: ‘We were feeling some deficiency in us while we were studying in an American university.

Pointing towards his chest he said that I felt that this place is empty. Then I thought that this is due to sexual wishes and this can be filled by selecting a wife and marrying her. So we decided to get married. But even after marriage this void could not be filled and still we were feeling some deficiency in us.

I was too much worried but since I too much loved my wife, I did not express my problem before her. One day I said to her: ‘If ever you see me that I am worried then take it that I do not love you. This worry has entangled me since the time I was studying and it still exists.’

My wife said: ‘By chance I am also facing with the same problem. I felt that this feeling is common in both of us.’ So we decided to get rid of this problem. At first we decided that most of our time we shall spend in the church and will pay more attention on the meaningful problems that perhaps we could get rid of this worry.

We started to spend most of our time in the church and in meaningful matters and also studied some books on this matter. But this purposeful thirst could not be quenched.

We had heard that there are some religions in the east like China and India who help the people by mortification in order to get the reality. We decided to go to visit these countries. We travelled to China first as it was nearer to America in comparison to other eastern countries. In China we contacted the officials of American embassy and asked them to tell names of some persons who could guide us in solving the meaningful problems. They informed us about a famous religious personality who was the religious head and also of spiritualism.

We reached him through the aid of our embassy and kept ourselves busy in mortification by his help but our meaningful deficiency could not be fulfilled.

From China we went to Tibet where some places of worship on the heights of Himalaya and where some persons were busy in worship and mortification. They permitted us to go in any place of worship to practice mortification for some time.

The mortification, which we practiced there were very difficult. For forty days we slept on a wooden plank having pointed nails. After passing some days over there we felt that we are still thirsty.

From there we went to India and contacted several conjurers and remained busy in mortification for a long period but with no results and also disappointed.

At least we came to the conclusion that there is no reality which could fill up our internal void.

Disappointed we decided to go to Europe from Asia and from there to America. We went to India and from there to Pakistan and Iran via Afghanistan. First of all we entered Mashhad. We found this city very peculiar and similar to which we had not yet seen any city. We saw a magnificent golden dome in the centre of the city where people were going in and coming out all the time.

I asked: What is happening over here and to which religion these people belong?

They said: They are Muslims and their religious book is Quran and one of their religious leaders is buried over there who is known as ‘Imam’.

I asked: ‘Who is this Imam and what is his work?

They said: He is a perfect personality possessing excellence of highest degree. And by dint of his status they do not die even after departing from this world.

The Muslims have such faith and come here for the pilgrimage of their Imam (a.s.) and with utmost honor and regard they put their wishes to be fulfilled and the Imam (a.s.) fulfils their wishes.

I said: Please read some important part from the Holy Quran.

They said: It has been said in a verse of the Holy Quran: ‘Everything glorifies the Almighty Allah’.

These things had become a puzzle for me that how it could be that their Imam has left this world but in spite of it they consider him alive and above all everything even the hills and trees etc. glorifies the Almighty Allah.

We could not believe about this thing and we decide to go inside the Razavi shrine to observe all this. A servant of the shrine looked towards us and when he came to know that we are non-muslims,; he stopped us from entering the courtyard and said that non-muslims are not allowed to enter the shrine.

We said that we have came over here covering a distance of thousands of miles and have visited several holy places but nobody told us that non-muslims are not allowed to enter the shrine then why are you stopping us from entering the shrine? We only want to visit this place and have no ill-intention. As much as we insisted it did not benefit us.

Having been hopeless we went away and remaining in the same condition, we sat in front of a hotel.

For some time we contemplated that it is not so that this is the real world but we are unable to apprehend it? If there is something and we are not permitted to enter in it would be very much disheartening and even after so much sufferings we will not be able to approach the reality. I started weeping and kept on weeping for a long time.

All of a sudden I thought that the person who is buried over here is an Imam and a perfect personality and wheter these people are telling the truth or lying that he is not a perfect person. If they are telling the truth and he is really alive and is present at every place then he must be aware that why we have come over here and what is our intention. He will have to take us from here and if they are lying then we need not to go from here. Tears were flowing from my eyes and I was consoling myself and a person stretched his hand towards me who was selling mirrors, Tasbih and Sajdahgah. He came to us and said to us in English in our own tone that why are you worried?

I raised my head and stated to him the whole event that we have traveled to many countries and have performed mortification for many years in search of reality and now while we have come here, we are not allowed to enter the shrine. He said don’t worry now you go, they will allow you to enter.

I said: We had just now gone but they did not allow us to enter.

He said: That time they were not permitted.

At that moment I was thinking that how the person who was selling things is talking with us in English, how could he know that the servants of the shrine did not allow us to enter and now they have got the permission? Also why I disclose the secret of my heart in front of him?

At last we again went towards the shrine and when we entered in the courtyard the servant did not stop us. We thought that perhaps he could not see us. We returned and looked towards him but he did not react.

We entered in the courtyard and reached upto verandah. We saw that so many people are entering in the shrine. We also entered inside alongwith them. The crowd pushed us here and there till we reached the door of the shrine. All of a sudden I felt that there is nobody near me and I got the way as much as I forwarded and I felt my loneliness. I reached the holy sepulehre without any difficulty or perpexility. Then I saw that somebody is standing inside the holy sepulehre. Immediately I saluted him and smiling he answered to my salutation and said: ‘What do you want?’

All that was in my mind disappeared. As much as I tried to recollect what I wanted but I could not gather. Only one idea came in my mind which I stated to him that I have heard that all the things glorify the Almighty Allah. When I said this, he said to me: ‘I shall show you this.’

Then I came out the shrine unintentionally and I felt that there is nobody around me and nobody is hindering me. I bid farewell and came out of the shrine but I was dumb founded.

I was in such a state that whatever was around me the doors, walls, trees, land and sky all are glorifying the Almighty Allah.

I could not understand having seen all this and fainted. When I came to my senses I saw that I am lying on a plank in a room and some persons are trying to bring me to senses by sprinkling water on my face.

After this event I came to know that there is a real world inside this universe and that reality is over here. A man can reach upto this status that death and life are alike for him. In the same manner I was convinced that the Holy Quran is true in saying that everything glorifies Allah (s.w.t.).

We may achieve the result out of this event that although the world is drowned in materialism but if anyone sincerely turns his face from all this and try to get the reality and guidance then the Divine leaders would surely help him. As Imam Reza (a.s.) had helped two Christians.

This may be said with satisfaction and belief that if you have read so far with deep contemplation and thoughtfulness, your thoughts and consideration must have been positively affected.

On this ground, one should pay full attention while performing the ziyaarat, keeping the dignity and eminence of Imam Reza (a.s.) in mind, that he has got the guardianship awarded to him by Almighty Allah and he is the proof of Allah – the High, upon this land, galaxies and even upon everything.

One should give esteem to moments spent in the holy shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) and must know that what are the expectations of Imam Reza (a.s.). Our first and foremost duty should be to pray for the establishment of the universal sovereignty by Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) and should give boost to the favours and graciousness of Imam Reza (a.s.) for his own self.

I pray the All-Merciful and Benevolent Allah to accept this research work and make it efficacious and shower upon me His Graciousness and Benevolence through the medium of affectionate Imam Ali ibn Moosa al-Reza (a.s.) and Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). And if this compilation carries reward, I take the liberty to present it to the intercessor of the Day of Judgment, sister of Imam Reza (a.s.) the generous Hazrat Faatemah Maasoomah (s.a.).

Supplicant

Sayed Murtuza Mujtahedi Seestani

Chapter 1

Eight Salaats of Ziyaarat (Pilgrimage)

In this chapter details of eight pilgrimage prayers will be elaborated out of which some prayers are especially for the shrine of Hazrat Imam Reza (a.s.) and some of them can be prayed in the shrines of all the infallibles (مَعْصُوْمِيْن) (a.s.).

1. First Salaat

After performing the ziyaarat of Imam Reza (a.s.) two rak’at prayer should be performed in the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.). In the first rak’at after Surah Hamd recite Surah Yaaseen and in the second rak’at after Surah Hamd recite Surah Rahmaan.

The decorum to be attended before and after the prayer will be discussed in the first ziyaarat of the chapters of ziyaarats of Imam Reza (a.s.)

2. Second Salaat

After peforming the ziyaarat, two rak’at prayer should be performed in which any Surah can be recited after reciting Surah Hamd. Then all the etiquette of ziyaarat to be done. The related etiquette will be elaborated in the chapters of second, third and seventh ziyaarats of Imam Reza (a.s.). This prayer can also be offered in the ziyaarat of all the infallibles.

3. Third Salaat

After performing the ziyaarat of Hazrat Imam Reza (a.s.) two rak’at prayer should be performed. In the first rak’at after Surah Hamd recite Surah Tawheed fifty times or less and in the second rak’at after Surah Hamd recite any Surah.

The etiquettes to be performed before and after this prayer will be mentioned in the sixth ziyaarat in the chapter of the ziyaarat of Hazrat Imam Reza (a.s.).

4. Fourth Salaat

Shaikh Mufeed (r.a.) writes in his book ‘Al-Ashraaf’:

Prayer of ziyaarat is two unit: In the first unit after Surah Hamd recite Surah Rahmaan and in the second rak’at after Surah Hamd recite Surah Yaaseen.⁰

This prayer (in which Surah Rahmaan is recited in the first rak’at and Surah Yaaseen is recited in the second) is not only specialized for the ziyaarat of Hazrat Imam Reza (a.s.). It can also be prayed after the ziyaarat of other infallibles (a.s.).

5. Fifth Salaat

Shaikh Kaf’ami (r.a.) writes:

In the holy shirne of Hazrat Imam Reza (a.s.) and other infallible Imams (a.s.) two rak’at prayers can be offered with any Surah (after Surah Hamd). After the prayer, recite the following supplication:

6. Sixth Salaat – Salaat of Ziyaarat in case of Deputing Some Person

In the book ‘Fee Ziyaarat wa al-Adiyyah’ it is written that Sayed Ibn Taaoos narrates in ‘Misbaah al-Zaaer’ that if anybody wants to perform Ziyaarat of any infallible Imam (a.s.) on deputation of all believers or any particular group, then he should determine to perform ziyaarat in his deputation and then perform ziyaarat for that Imam (a.s.). After that perform two rak’at prayer for ziyaarat and than say:

7. Seventh Salaat – Salaat of Ziyaarat in case of Deputing any Particular Person

In the same book it has been narrated:

If anybody wants to offer prayer of ziyaarat on deputation of any particular person then after determining the ziyaarat, recite the following in deputation of that person:

Then offer two units prayer of ziyaarat in his deputation, then say:

8. Eighth Salaat – Salaat of Ziyaarat in the Journey on Deputation

In the same book it has been mentioned:

If anybody is on deputation from the beginning of the journey and want to perform short ziyaarat then he should intend to perform ziyaarat from any of the particular ziyaarat (زِيَارَتِ مَخْصُوْصَة) on behalf of that person. Then offer two units prayer of ziyaarat and then recite this supplication:

Chapter 2

Eight Salaats of Need (حَاجَتْ)

In this chapter details of eight prayers shall be mentioned from the prayers of requesting any need as described by Imam Reza (a.s.).

1. Salaat of Need in the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.)

Saqar Ibn Dalf has narrated on the authority of Imam Hadi (a.s.) (10^th Imam) who said:

“Whoever has any request to put before the Almighty Allah should take bath in Toos then should present himself before my hon’ble father Imam Reza (a.s.) and perform ziyaarat of his shrine and perform two units prayer near his head and ask for his request in the state of Qunoot. If that request will not be related to severity of relationship or any sin, it will surely be accepted.”

No doubt the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) is one of the holy places of Heaven. Whoever will perform the ziyaarat at this place will be secured from the fire of Hell and will be awarded eternal place in Heaven.⁰

2. Salaat of Need or Salaat of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) as Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.)

Sayed Ibn Taaoos relates by the reliable sources, on the authority of Imam Reza (a.s.) that when he was asked about the prayer of Ja’far Tayyaar, he (a.s.) said:

“Why are you negligent of the prayer of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)? Is it possible that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) had not performed the prayer of Ja’far Tayyaar and perhaps Ja’far Tayyaar had not performed the prayer of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.).”

The narrator then asked Imam Reza (a.s.) to teach the said prayer to him. Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

“Perform two units prayer. In each unit recite Surah Hamd once and Surah Qadr fifteen times. Then recite Surah Qadr fifteen times in ruku, after raising your head from ruku, in the first prostration, after raising your head from prostration, in the second sajdah and after raising the head from sajdah. Finish the prayers by reciting Tashahhud and Salaam.

When you finish your prayer there will remain no sin between you and Allah (s.w.t.) which will not be forgiven and your supplications will be accepted. Then recite the following supplication:

Allamah Majlisi (r.a.) stated that this is one of the famous prayers which has been mentioned by many scholars in their books. Some of them relate this prayer with the prayers of Friday but it has not been particulated in the traditions and apparently it may be offered in all the days.

3. Salaat of Haajat as narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.)

Imam Reza (a.s.) says:

“Whenever you are entangled in a difficulty, offer two units prayer. In the first unit, after Surah Hamd recite Aayatul Kursi and in the second unit after Surah Hamd recite Surah Qadr, then put the Holy Quran on your head and recite:

Then recite ten times each:

If it is done, the Almighty Allah will accept your prayer before you leave the place.⁰

4. Another Salaat of Need – Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.)

If anybody is sorrowful or in trouble or he has any request to put before Almighty Allah then he should recite this prayer.

Imam Reza (a.s.) says:

“Offer two units prayer and in both the unit, after reciting Surah Hamd once, recite thirteen times Surah Qadr. After finishing the prayer, recite in sajdah (prostration):

Then put your right cheek on the ground and say:

Then put left cheek on the ground and repeat the same supplication so that the All Merciful Allah remove your worries and troubles and accept your prayers.”⁰

5. Another Salaat of Haajat – Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.)

Maqaatil Ibn Maqaatil says, ‘I requested Imam Reza (a.s.): May I be sacrificed upon you please teach me any supplication to fulfil my desires.’

Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

“Whenever you have any special invocation to ask the Almighty Allah, after taking bath put on clean and best dress, apply fragrance, go under open sky and offer two units prayer. In the first unit recite Surah Hamd and then recite Surah Ahad fifteen times, go in ruku and again recite Surah Ahad fifteen times as it is mentioned in Namaz-e-Tasbeeh (Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar).⁰ After finishing the prayer recite the following supplication in sajdah:

Then implore earnestly and repeat your request.⁰

In Makaarem al-Akhlaaq there is addition that after your request is fulfilled, offer two units prayer of gratitude.⁰

6. Salaat of Need to be Offered on Friday – Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.)

It has been narrated on the authority of Imam Reza (a.s.) who said:

“If anyone has a solicitation which could not have been achieved then he should humbly present himself before Almighty Allah.”

When the narrator asked the Imam (a.s.), ‘What to do?’ Imam (a.s.) said:

“Observe fast on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and on Friday wash your head with Alcea⁰, put on clean and best dress, Apply best scent, give charity as much as possible and perform two units prayer under open sky. In the first unit, recite Surah Hamd once and Surah Ahad fifteen times, then in ruku recite Surah Ahad fifteen times, after raising the head from ruku repeat it again fifteen times, then go in prostration and again repeat fifteen times and raise the head from sajdah and repeat fifteen times.

Recite the second unit in the same way and finish the prayer by reciting tashahhud and salaam. Then go in sajdah again and recite fifteen times Surah Ahad, then put the right cheek on the ground and again recite fifteen times. Then put the left cheek on the ground and recite fifteen times. Then go in sajdah and recite the following supplication while weeping:

Then put your right cheek on the ground and repeat the same supplication thrice. Then put your left cheek on the ground and repeat the same supplication thrice.

Imam Reza (a.s.) says:

“When a person performs such a divine action, Almighty Allah will fulfill his solicitation. The person should conjoin himself with the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and his progeny in the presence of Allah (s.w.t.) and to recite the holy names of all the infallible imams (a.s.).”⁰

7. Another Salaat of Need to be performed on Fridays

This prayer has been attributed to Imam Reza (a.s.).

When you have any solicitation before the Almighty Allah then observe fast on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. On Friday before Zohr be attentive towards Allah (s.w.t.) and after taking bath, offer two units prayer and in both units recite Surah Hamd once and Surah Ahad fifteen times. And recite Surah Ahad ten times in ruku, after raising the head from ruku and in sajdah and after raising the head from ruku and in second sajdah. Repeat the same procedure for second unit and do qunoot.

After finishing the prayer, glorify the Almighty Allah in abundance and recite salutation on the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and his progeny and ask your soliciations from Allah (s.w.t.) of this world and the hereafter.

When the Almighty Allah, by His Grace and Mercy, accepts your request then as a mark of thankfulness peform two units prayer. In the first unit recite Surah Hamd and Surah Ahad and in the second unit after Surah Hamd reite Surah Kaaferoon. In the ruku of first unit say:

In its sajdah say:

In both the ruku and sajdah of second unit say:

8. Salaat of Haajat – Narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.) (For Marriage)

Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

“Whenever you intend to marry, ask for the blessings of Allah (s.w.t.) and proceed to His solicitation. Then perform two units prayer and raise your hands for supplication and says:

Chapter 3

Eight Salaat narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.)

(1) Salaat of Imam Reza (a.s.)

The salaat of Imam Reza (a.s.) contains six units and it is performed in sets of two unit. In both the units, after Surah Hamd, recite Surah Dahr (Chapter 76) ten times. After finishing the prayer, recite Salawaat one hundred times and invoke Almighty Allah to fulfill your desires.⁰

(2) Another Narration of Salaat of Imam Reza (a.s.)

This salaat is also of six units performed in sets of two unit. In both the units after Surah Hamd, recite Surah Dahr ten times.⁰

(3) Another Version of Salaat of Imam Reza (a.s.)

This is a six units salaat performed in sets of two unit. In each unit, after Surah Hamd, recite Surah Dahr ten times. After finishing the prayer, recite the supplication of Imam Reza (a.s.):

(4) Salaat of Istekharah (Seeking the Best)

Imam Reza (a.s.) said:

When you intend to do something, pray a two Rak’at Salaat and seek the best from Allah one hundred and one times (101), then whatever is stronger (in your heart), perform that. In your supplication, recite:

(5) Another Method of Salaat of Istekharah

Ali ibn Asbaat narrates that when I asked Imam Reza (a.s.) about my journey to Egypt. Whether should I go by sea or on land? He (a.s.) said:

“Go to Masjid al-Nabi other than the time of obligatory salaat and perform two units prayer and seek benediction of Almighty Allah one hundred times then act according to whatever is stronger (in your heart).”⁰

(6) Salaat of Istisqa (Salaat for Rain)

This is a two units prayer recommended by Imam Reza (a.s.) without Azaan or Eqamah. The Imam-e-Jamaat should come under open sky alongwith other people and recite two units prayer. Then after putting on his robe from the other side, sit on the pulpit facing Qiblah and recite the takbeer (اَللهُ اَكْبَرُ) one hundred times loudly.

Then turn to his right side and recite loudly Tasbeeh (سُبْحَانَ اللهِ) one hundred times. Then turning to his left side recite loudly Tahleel (لَا اِلٰہَ اِلَّا اللہُ) one hundred times. Then facing the people, recite loudly Tahmeed (اَلْحَمْدُ لِلهِ) one hundred times. Then raising his hands towards sky recite the following supplication:

(7) Salaat When Travelling

This salaat is narrated by Imam Reza (a.s.).

“Whenever you intend to go on a journey assemble your family members and after performing two units prayer recite the following supplication:

(8) Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar (a.s.)

Imam Reza (a.s.) quotes on the authority of his honourable father, Imam Moosa Ibn Ja’far (a.s.) that a person asked Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.) about salaat of Tasbeeh (Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar (a.s.)), he (a.s.) said:

“This salaat is a very big endowment and Divine Gift.

My honourable father has narrated on the authority of my honourable fore-father Imam Zainul Aabedin (a.s.) that he (a.s.) said:

When Ja’far ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) returned from Abyssinia, the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) met him in his restroom near Khaibar. When Ja’far (a.s.) saw him (s.a.w.a.), he rushed towards him happily. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) embraced him and was very much pleased on seeing him. He (s.a.w.a.) talked to him. Then he (s.a.w.a.) mounted on his horse and also made him mounted. When the horse started to walk, he (s.a.w.a.) looked at Ja’far (a.s.) and said:

“O brother Ja’far! Should not I select you to offer some present?”

When the people heard these dialogues, they thought that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) would give him some worldly gift because he had helped the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) in the battle of Khaiber and got a good booty.

Ja’far (a.s.) said: “May my parents be sacrificed upon you please do give me.”

Then the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) taught him the Salaat of Tasbih (which is known as ‘Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar’).”⁰

Imam Reza (a.s.) narrates:

“It is incumbent upon you to remain in touch with Namaz of Ja’far Tayyaar because it carries many virtues. It may be performed at any time during the day or night but not at the time of any obligatory salaat. It may be performed along with recommended salaat and without tasbeeh.

Start this salaat with one takbeer and recite Surah Aadeyaat (chapter 100) after Surah Hamd in the first unit. In the second unit recite Surah Zilzaal (chapter 99) after Surah Hamd. ⁰

In the third unit recite Surah Nasr (chapter 110) and in the fourth unit recite Surah Ikhlaas. Surah Tawheed can be recited in all the four units also.

In each unit, recite سُبْحَانَ اللهِ وَ الْحَمْدُ لِلهِ وَ لَا اِلٰهَ اِلَّا اللهُ وَ اللهُ اَكْبَرُ after:

Reciting Surah Hamd and another Surah 15 times

In ruku 10 times

After ruku, while standing 10 times

In the first sajdah 10 times

After first sajdah, while sitting 10 times

In the second sajdah 10 times

After second sajdah, while sitting 10 times

Then stand up and perform the second unit like the first unit. Then finish the salaat with Tashahud and Salaam. Perform another two unit like the previous ones.⁰

In this way Tasbeehat al-Arba’ are recited 75 times in each unit making a total of 300 times in four units.

Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar in the Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.)

Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar bears great importance due to certain reasons:

1. Great emphasis has been given in performing this prayer in the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.).

2. It has been observed that Imam of the era – Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) was seen performing Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar towards the head in the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.).

3. Imam Reza (a.s.) used to peform Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar.

Ahmad ibn Ali Ansari quotes on the authority of Raja’ ibn Abi Zahhaak that in the journey of Khorasan every night Imam Reza (a.s.) used to perform four unit Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar after eight units.⁰

4. Imam Reza (a.s.) has recommended to perform Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar on the day of Dahwul Arz (25^th Zilqad).

Allama Majlisi (a.r.) narrates that in the letter of Shaikh Husain ibn Abd al-Samad it is written that:

Shaikh Abu Tayyeb Husain ibn Ahmad Faqeeh narrates that whoever performs the pilgrimage of Imam Reza (a.s.) or any of the pious and purified Imams (a.s.), he should perform Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar in their holy shrine. The reward of each unit of this prayer is equal to performing one thousand Hajj, one thousand umrah, freeing one thousand slaves, performing one thousand ‘wuquf’⁰ along with the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) in the way of Allah and for every step he will get the reward of one hundred Hajjs, one hundred Umrah, freeing one hundred slaves in the way of Allah and the reward of one hundred good deeds will be written for him and one hundred sins will be erased from the scroll of his deeds.⁰

Allamah Majlisi (r.a.) writes in ‘Zaad al-Maad’ that there are repeated traditions about this Namaz. Even the adversaries consider this namaz desirable except some of them. But most of them relate this namaz from Abbas, uncle of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), due to their hidden enmity with Ameerul Momineen (a.s.) and his near ones.

No other prayer, except the recommended prayers of day and night can emulate this Salaat due to its excessive rewards and accredited traditions.⁰

Allamah Majlisi (a.r.) has enumerated the commandments of this salaat in some chapters as given hereunder:

1) It is well-known amongst the scholars that one can perform Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar in stead of recommended day and night salats. It would be counted at both places.⁰ It may also be performed with the intention of elapsed recommended prayers, as there are many traditions in this regard.

2) It has been narrated in some traditions and some scholars are also of the opinion that if somebody has emergency, this namaz may be performed without Tasbeehaat-e-Arba’ which may be recited (300 times) after the Salaat.

3) It has been narrated in reliable traditions that If one has only sufficient time to recite only two unit with Tasbeehaat-e-Arba’ fully he should recite those two unit only and the remaining two unit can be recited whenever the person gets time. But it is better to perform all the units altogether if there is no genuine excuse.

4) It has been narrated in a reliable tradition on the authority of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) that if anyone forgets the Tasbeehaat of Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar, he may recite the same at whatever time he recollects.

5) There are differences in the recitation of the recommended surahs and it is famous that in its first unit, after Surah Hamd, recite Surah Zilzal, in the second unit recite Surah Aadeyaat, in the third unit recite Surah Nasr and in the fourth unit recite Surah Ikhlaas.

(a) Ibn Baabwayh (r.a.) and his father says that in the first unit recite Surah Aadeyaat and in the second unit recite Surah Zilzaal.

(b) According to one tradition, it is said that in the first unit Surah Zilzaal, in the second unit Surah Nasr, in the third unit Surah Qadr and in the fourth unit Surah Tawheed should be recited.

(c) It is said in a reliable tradition that Surah Kaaferoon and Surah Tawheed both should be recited in each unit.

(d) According to one tradition any Surah may be recited. Ibn Baabwayh (r.a.) said: Surah Tawheed may be recited in all the units and apparently this is better but the first and third (i.e. (a) and (c)) method is best.

6) This is famous that after the first prostration of first and third unit Tasbeehaat-e-Arba’ should be recited in sitting position and some say that after getting up for the second unit recite Tasbeehaat-e-Arba’ before recitation of surahs but it is better to act what is famous.

7) Some say that all the four units to be performed with one salaam but two salaams are preferred.

8) Scholars are of the opinion that Tasbeehaat-e-Arba’ to be recited before ruku and before the recitation of Surahs. Ibn Baabwayh (r.a.) quotes that it is optional to recite the Tasbeehaat before and after reciting surahs but it is better to act according to renowned manner.⁰

Chapter 4

Eight Traditions of Imam Reza (a.s.) about the Salaats of Special Days

(1) Salaat of Night and Day of Friday

Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Abi Nasr narrates on the authority of Imam Reza (a.s.) that he (a.s.) said:

“In the salaat of Friday night one should recite Surah Juma’h (chapter 62) and Surah Aa’la (chapter 87). In the Morning Prayer of Friday recite Surah Juma’h and Surah Tawheed. In the Friday prayer recite Surah Juma’h and Surah Monafeqoon (chapter 63) and in its first unit qunoot should be recited before ruku.”⁰

(2) Rituals of Friday

Sa’d ibn Sa’d Ashari says: When I asked Imam Reza (a.s.) that how many units to be performed for the rituals of Friday before the sun crosses the meridian, he (a.s.) replied:

“Perform six units in the early morning and thereafter perform six more units and then again perform six units, to make a total of eighteen units. Then perform two unit after noon (zawaal) and two unit after asr. Thus there will be twenty-two unit in all.”⁰

(3) Ritual and Obligatory Zohr Salaat on Friday

Bazanti (a companion of Imam Reza (a.s.)) says that when I asked Imam (a.s.) about two unit of noon ritual (نافلہ زوال), Imam (a.s.) said:

“When the sun rises and crosses the meridian, perform two unit ritual salaat and perform obligatory prayer at the time when the sun declines from the middle of the sky towards west. But if the sun declines before performing two unit ritual salaat, perform the two unit ritual salaat after the obligatory prayer.”⁰

(4) Salaats of Friday and Two Eids

Fazl Ibn Shaazan narrates on the authority of Imam Reza (a.s.) that he said:

“One must know that sermon is to be recited in the beginning of Friday prayer and in the end of Eid-e-Fitr and Eid-e-Qurban because Friday prayer is perpetual matter and performed several times in a month and more in a year. People may get tired if the sermon is delivered after the prayer. They may leave it. But as the prayers of Eid-e-Fitr and Eid-e-Qurban are held at the most twice in a year its magnificience is more than Friday prayer and people assemble enmasse on these occasions.”⁰

(5) Salaat of 15^th Shabaan

Ali Ibn Fazzaal reports that when his father asked Imam Ali Reza (a.s.) about the excellence of 15^th Shabaan, he (a.s.) said:

“It is the night to get released from the Fire. On that night major sins will be forgiven.”

I said, “Are there any additional prayers for that night?” The Imam (a.s.) said,

“It does not have any especial prayers. However, if you like to do a recommendable act on that night you can pray Salaat of Ja’far-e-Tayyaar and mention Allah – Mighty and Majestic be He – ask for forgiveness and supplicate a lot.” Because my father (a.s.) has said, “Supplications are accepted (fulfilled) on that night.’

I said, “The people say that that night is the night of ‘Sekak’.”⁰ The Imam (a.s.) said,

“That is the Night of Power (Qadr) in the month of Ramazan.”⁰

(6) Salaat of the Sixth Day of the Month of Ramazan

Allamah Majlisi (r.a.) reports on the authority of Sayed Ibn Taaoos (r.a.):

It is narrated that one should perform two units prayer on the sixth day of the month of Ramazan. In its each unit after the reciting of Surah Hamd recite Surah Tawheed twenty five times. On the basis of what had happened on this day this prayer should be performed as the right of Imam Reza (a.s.).⁰

Allamah Majlisi (r.a.) quotes that Shaikh Mufeed (r.a.) has written in his book ‘Tawaareekh al-Shar-i’yyah’ that Ma’moon had taken the oath of allegence at the hands of Imam Reza (a.s.) on this day.

(7) Salaat of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) in the Month of Ramazan

Mohammad Ibn Suleman narrates that when we asked Imam Reza (a.s.) about the manner of desirable prayers performed by the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), he (a.s.) said:

“On the first of the month of Ramazan the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) performed Maghrib prayer then performed four units of supererogatory prayers of Maghrib then he (s.a.w.a.) performed eight units other prayers, and therafter after performing Isha prayer he performed two unit of supererogatory of Isha in sitting position. Then after getting up he (s.a.w.a.) performed twelve units of other supererogatory prayer and then entered his house.

When some people asked the holy prophet (s.a.w.a.) the reason of performance of these prayers, he (s.a.w.a.) said:

اَيُّهَا النَّاسُ اِنَّ هٰذِهِ الصَّلَاةَ نَافِلَةٌ وَ لَنْ نَـجْتَمِعَ لِلنَّافِلَةِ فَلْيُصَلِّ كُلُّ رَجُلٍ مِنْكُمْ وَحْدَهٗ وَ لْيَقُلْ مَا عَلَّمَهُ اللهُ مِنْ كِتَابِهٖ. وَ اعْلَمُوْا اَنَّهٗ لَا جَمَاعَةَ فِيْ نَافِلَةٍ.

“I performed these prayers due to superiority by the month of Ramazan over other months”.

Next day when some people tried to perform those supererogatory prayer in congregation, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said: “There is no congregation for supererogatory.

On the night of 19^th of the month of Ramazan he (s.a.w.a.) took bath at sunset and performed Maghrib prayer and then performed the usual four units of supererogatory of Maghrib and departed to this house. He (s.a.w.a.) came out of his house and performed Isha prayer and two unit of supererogatory of Isha in sitting position. Then he stood up and performed one hundred units in which he (s.a.w.a.) recited Surah ikhlaas ten times after reciting Surah Hamd once in each unit. In the end he (s.a.w.a.) performed midnight prayer then Salaat of Shaf’ and Watr.

On the 20^th day of the month of Ramazan he (s.a.w.a.) performed the prayers like other nights.

On the night of 21^st he (s.a.w.a.) took bath at the time of sunset and performed all the prayers as he had done on the night of 19^th of Ramazan.

On the night of 22^nd of the month of Ramazan he (s.a.w.a.) performed twenty units of supererogatory as he (s.a.w.a.) used to perform on other nights including eight units of Maghrib and twelve units after Isha prayers.

On the night of 23^rd he (s.a.w.a.) took bath and performed all the prayers as he had performed on the night of 21^st of the month of Ramazan.

When somebody asked Imam Reza (a.s.) as how to perform all the fifty-one (51) units of daily obligatory prayers and Supererogatory in the month of Ramazan, he (a.s.) said;

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) used to perform all these prayers of fifty-one units as he used to perform in other months excluding the month of Ramazan.⁰

(8) Salaat and Suppplication of 1^st Muharram

Imam Reza (a.s.) is reported to have said:

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), on the first of Muharram, used to offer a two units prayer. When he finished, he would raise his hands towards the heavens and repeat the following supplicatory prayer three times: