Allah (SWT) would never appoint a person as an Imam and make him His decisive proof upon people unless the person has earned the position and has reached perfection in his virtues, sayings, and deeds. Such a person would say nothing but truth, and do nothing but good…
Like his ancestors Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (PBUH), fifth Imam of the Shiites, is a perfect example in terms of behavior and other moral aspects.
In his behavior towards people, he was so chaste and humble that he would forgive and forget people’s wrongdoings as much as possible. This manner of the Imam would deeply penetrate within people’s hearts. The following narration clearly indicates this magnificent virtue:
A Christian man who intended to make fun of the Imam (PBUH), changed the word “Baqir” (1) to “Baqar” (2), and addressed the Imam insultingly. Without showing any signs of sadness or anger, Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (PBUH) simply replied:” No, I am not Baqar, I am Baqir”.
– The Christian continued:” You are son of the woman who was a cook”.
– Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (PBUH):” That was her career. This is not shameful.”
– The Christian:” Your mother was black, impudent, and rude”.
– Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (PBUH):” If such matters you accuse my mother are true, I ask Allah to forgive her sins; and if they are false, I ask Him to forgive you for your accusations and lies.”
The patience of the Imam was enough for the Christian to be revolutionized and attracted towards Islam. He later became a Muslim.
(Selection taken from:” The Guides to the Path of Truth”, by Muhammad Taqi Mudarresi; “Story of the Truthful”, by Murtada Mutahhari, with some changes)
On behalf of Roshd website we offer our condolences to you dear friend upon 7th of Dhi al-Hajjah for the martyrdom of the example of the seekers of truth, and the 5th commander of the Shiites, Imam Muhammad ibn Ali al-Baqir (PBUH).
Footnotes:
1- His title was “Baqir”, means the divider. He was known as “Baqir al Ulum”, the divider of the knowledge.
2- In Arabic, “Baqar” means cow.