Role of the Qur'an in Imam Rida's life (Part 4)

Imam Rida (A.S) was always paying attention to Quran’s guidelines in different aspects of his life such as social aspects; he was always asking the entire Islamic community to pay more attention to the Qur’an and apply its teachings in their life.

Ethical Guidelines

Relying on the teachings of the holy Qur’an, Imam Rida (A.S) presented his ethical teachings to the Islamic community, especially those attributed to the holy household.

Referring to the verses of the Qur’an, Imam Rida (A.S) was always telling others that being attributed to Holy Prophet or Imams without following them and God will never save human beings. So, try not to be deceived by some behaviors and take the right path.”‌

Accuracy in Practicing the Quranic Teachings

Mohammad Ibn Yahya Ibn Abi Ibad narrates through the words of his uncle: “I heard a poem from Imam Rida (A.S) although poems were rare at that time:

All of us dream of a long life

Though, death kills our desires

So let not false hopes deceive you

Watch the way you’re stepping in

Let not make excuses on your path

Know the world is passing by like a shadow

Like a passenger who stops for a while and then he leaves

I then asked: “My dear, who is the poet?”‌

Imam Rida (A.S) answered: “it is said by an Iraqi poet.”‌

I said: “I had heard this poem before from Abu al-Atahiyeh.

Imam Rida (A.S) then said: “say his real name and don not use these nicknames as God says “do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames”‌. Maybe he does not like this nickname.

It is known that a person who is stupid and misguided is called Abu Al-Atahiyah. In fact, Imam meant just calling the poet by his real name is enough; never use a nickname for someone who hates it as the Qur’an advises us not to do so.

* Translated by: Sadroddin Musawi