Imam Reza (A.S) Answering the Accusations
Then, Imam Reza(A.S) mentioned accusations leveled against him by his opponents and explained the reason behind opposition of a number of such people including Ibn al Seraj, Ibn Abi Hamzah and the like.(1)
Sadduq in Oyyun and Amali also narrating Ryan say: once we went to Ali bin Musa al Reza (A.S) and told him: O, you, the son of God’s Prophet, people say: you have entered this field (accepting the title and position of being successor to caliph) while you were a mystic.
Imam (A.S) said: God knows that I did not like to accept it, but when I found myself between accepting it or getting killed, I accepted it to be the successor to caliph. Alas, don’t they know that it was out of necessity that Prophet Joseph [Yusuf] accepted to be responsible for Pharaoh’s treasures, then he [Joseph] said, "Appoint me over the storehouses of the land. Indeed, I will be a knowing guardian."(12:55)(2). I also accepted this out of necessity and reluctantly. Meanwhile, I did enter this field just as a person who intended to exit it. Thus, I submit my complaints to God who is my permanent supporter.
Another narration from Hassan ibn Musa tells us that according to Imam Reza’s companions: once a man told Imam Reza (A.S): “why did you choose to go after such issue?” As if he criticized the Imam.
Imam Reza (A.S) told him: O, man, let me know which one is superior, the Prophet (PBUH) or his successor? The man answered: the Prophet.
Imam said: which one is worse, a Muslim or a pagan?
He said: Pagan is undoubtedly worse.
Imam (A.S) said: bear in mind that Pharaoh was a pagan and Joseph (Yusuf) was God’s prophet, and Ma’mun is a Muslim while I am the Prophet’s successor. However, Yusuf (A.S) asked Pharaoh to make him responsible through the following verse: “Appoint me over the storehouses of the land. Indeed, I will be a knowing guardian.”(12:55), I was forced to accept this position. (3)
Notes:
1. Qurb al-Asnad, P. 152; Bihar al Anwar, Vol. 49, P. 295.
2. Uyun Akhbar al-Reza, Vol.2, P. 139; Elal-ul Sharaye, Vol. 2, P. 227.
3. Uyun Akhbar al-Reza, Vol.2, P. 138.
By Muhammad Javad Tabasi
Translated by: Sadroddin Musawi
Other links:
Imam Reza Ethical and Humane Conduct Regarding His Appearance
