Al-Saadiq and Politics at his Al-Saadiq and Politics at his TimeTime

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

In this slide show:In this slide show:

Discussed in this Slide Show:Discussed in this Slide Show:Political happenings during Al-Saadiq's lifetime Al-Saadiq was witness to:

The need for Islamic knowledge, specified and categorizedThe waning of Benu Umayya PowerThe advent of Benu Abbas PowerMuch social upheavalsThe building of BaghdadThe building of Baghdad

In Sermon 97, page 143,In Sermon 97, page 143,

Ali points to Ahlul Bayt:Ali points to Ahlul Bayt:

�م� �ك �ي ب ن �ت� ي ب ه�ل أ وا �ظ�ر� �م� ان �ك �ي ب ن �ت� ي ب ه�ل أ وا �ظ�ر� ان

ه�م� م�ت س م�وا �ز ه�م� فال م�ت س م�وا �ز ، ، فال

ه�م� ر ث أ �ع�وا !ب ه�م� وات ر ث أ �ع�وا !ب وات

ه�دى#، م�ن� �م� �خ�ر�ج�وك ي ن� ه�دى#، فل م�ن� �م� �خ�ر�ج�وك ي ن� فل

دى#، ر ف�ي �م� �ع�يد�وك ي ن� دى#، ول ر ف�ي �م� �ع�يد�وك ي ن� ول

�د�وا �ب فال د�وا ب ل �ن� �د�وا فإ �ب فال د�وا ب ل �ن� فإ

�هض�وا، فان هض�وا ن �ن� �هض�وا، وإ فان هض�وا ن �ن� وإ

3وا، ض�ل فت �ق�وه�م� ب س� ت 3وا، وال ض�ل فت �ق�وه�م� ب س� ت وال

�وا �ك ه�ل فت �ه�م� عن وا خ!ر� أ ت ت �وا وال �ك ه�ل فت �ه�م� عن وا خ!ر� أ ت ت ..وال

Lo! Ponder about the Prophet's family [Ahlul Lo! Ponder about the Prophet's family [Ahlul Bayt].Bayt].

Cling to their direction andCling to their direction and

Follow in their footsteps,Follow in their footsteps,

Since never will they mislead you,Since never will they mislead you,

Nor will they lead you to malice. Nor will they lead you to malice.

Do what they do, whither they sit so you Do what they do, whither they sit so you do, and if they rise up, so rise up with them.do, and if they rise up, so rise up with them.

Follow their example: Do not outsmart Follow their example: Do not outsmart them since it would lead you astray; nor lag them since it would lead you astray; nor lag behind them, for surely it would be your ruin.behind them, for surely it would be your ruin.

Al-Saadiq Chronology Al-Saadiq Chronology

Ja'far Al‑Saadiq was:Ja'far Al‑Saadiq was:1.1. born during the reign of Abdul Malik son of Marwan,born during the reign of Abdul Malik son of Marwan,2.2. lived through the mightiest period, then the impotence, of Benu lived through the mightiest period, then the impotence, of Benu

Umayya's rule, Umayya's rule, 3.3. witnessed the disintegration of the Khilaafah of Benu Umayya, witnessed the disintegration of the Khilaafah of Benu Umayya, 4.4. lived through some of the severest upheavals of the Ummah, and lived through some of the severest upheavals of the Ummah, and

finally, finally, 5.5. witnessed not only the extinction of Benu Umayya's rule, but also witnessed not only the extinction of Benu Umayya's rule, but also

the rise of Benu Abbas' rule.  the rise of Benu Abbas' rule.  Al‑Saadiq's life span stretched for 48 years through Benu Umayya's Al‑Saadiq's life span stretched for 48 years through Benu Umayya's rule and 17 years through Benu Abbas' rule. rule and 17 years through Benu Abbas' rule.

Al-Saadiq Witnesses:Al-Saadiq Witnesses:

Al-Saadiq lived throughout Al-Saadiq lived throughout the most oppressive period of Benu Umayya's rule, the most oppressive period of Benu Umayya's rule, then witnessed the dynasty's deterioration and decay, then witnessed the dynasty's deterioration and decay, And the stunning revolts against Benu Umayya; which finally dealt And the stunning revolts against Benu Umayya; which finally dealt the death blow to them and to their strangle‑hold on the Islamic the death blow to them and to their strangle‑hold on the Islamic Ummah.Ummah.Al‑Saadiq witnessed the rise of Benu Abbas and the initial euphoric Al‑Saadiq witnessed the rise of Benu Abbas and the initial euphoric and enthusiastic period. and enthusiastic period.

These years of turmoil gave Al‑Saadiq unique opportunities to These years of turmoil gave Al‑Saadiq unique opportunities to tirelessly work for Islam, unhampered.tirelessly work for Islam, unhampered.For the first 48 years of his life Al‑Saadiq was contemporary to 10 For the first 48 years of his life Al‑Saadiq was contemporary to 10 Khalifas of Benu Umayya.Khalifas of Benu Umayya.For the last 17 Years of his life, Al-Saadiq was contemporary to 2 For the last 17 Years of his life, Al-Saadiq was contemporary to 2 Khalifas of Benu Abbas.Khalifas of Benu Abbas.

Al-Saadiq ObservesAl-Saadiq Observes

When Islam expanded to cover vast areas of the Middle When Islam expanded to cover vast areas of the Middle East, the local people welcomed the Muslims as East, the local people welcomed the Muslims as liberators:liberators:

to relieve them from their oppressive rulers, to relieve them from their oppressive rulers, heavy taxation, and heavy taxation, and to bring about social reforms, with justice as its basis. to bring about social reforms, with justice as its basis.

People looked forward to the new dynamic Islam to People looked forward to the new dynamic Islam to instill the new order of justice and treat people with instill the new order of justice and treat people with equity. equity.

This was more or less the case during the rule of the Al‑Khulafaa This was more or less the case during the rule of the Al‑Khulafaa Al‑Rashidoon Al‑Rashidoon a period when the primacy of Islam over all customs was a period when the primacy of Islam over all customs was asserted.asserted.

Setbacks Caused by Benu UmayyaSetbacks Caused by Benu Umayya

When Benu Umayya took over however, several When Benu Umayya took over however, several setbacks took place mainly from, setbacks took place mainly from,

administrative, administrative, economic, and economic, and social point of view.social point of view.

From the From the administrative point of viewadministrative point of view there were there were the following factors:the following factors:

Expansion continued during their early rule, Expansion continued during their early rule, But this expansion halted completely a few decades But this expansion halted completely a few decades later.later.

Set Backs Caused by Economic PolicySet Backs Caused by Economic Policy

Setbacks of the Setbacks of the Economic PolicyEconomic Policy of Benu Umayya were: of Benu Umayya were:1.1. The lion's share of the treasury (from the Jiziah and Ushr) was spent The lion's share of the treasury (from the Jiziah and Ushr) was spent

on the Syrians, and more so the administration,on the Syrians, and more so the administration,2.2. There were many increases in the rate of taxation:There were many increases in the rate of taxation:

a.a. Return of the taxes as previously levied by the Persian Return of the taxes as previously levied by the Persian Empire, as reinstated by Mu'awiya,Empire, as reinstated by Mu'awiya,

3.3. Taxation, Tributes, or Surcharges on:Taxation, Tributes, or Surcharges on:a.a. manufactured goods,manufactured goods,b.b. various professions,various professions,c.c. marriage contracts,marriage contracts,d.d. presenting subpoenas,presenting subpoenas,

Set Backs Caused by Economic PolicySet Backs Caused by Economic Policy

Further Setbacks of the Further Setbacks of the Economic PolicyEconomic Policy of Benu Umayya were: of Benu Umayya were:4.4. Duties on Nowrooz and other ceremonial observances. (Jah'shiari.  Duties on Nowrooz and other ceremonial observances. (Jah'shiari. 

Also The Venture of Islam, Marshall Hodgson, Vol. 1, Page 269. Also The Venture of Islam, Marshall Hodgson, Vol. 1, Page 269. Also Al‑Tibari, Vol. 8, Page 139.)Also Al‑Tibari, Vol. 8, Page 139.)

5.5. There were blunders at some borders, mainly for the sake of There were blunders at some borders, mainly for the sake of procuring booty,procuring booty,

6.6. As the number of people accepting Islam increased, some governors As the number of people accepting Islam increased, some governors (like Al‑Hajjaj) discouraged people from embracing Islam, just for the (like Al‑Hajjaj) discouraged people from embracing Islam, just for the purpose of collecting more taxes (Jiziah),purpose of collecting more taxes (Jiziah),

7.7. Neglect of the public works in far away provinces.Neglect of the public works in far away provinces.8.8. All this heightened the resentment by the public, the average man, All this heightened the resentment by the public, the average man,

and especially the converts to Islam.and especially the converts to Islam.

Social Setbacks caused by Benu UmayyaSocial Setbacks caused by Benu Umayya

Setbacks of the Setbacks of the Social PolicySocial Policy of Benu Umayya were: of Benu Umayya were:1.1. Benu Umayya's rule was not by Shoora as Islam had enjoined, Benu Umayya's rule was not by Shoora as Islam had enjoined,

they proved unworthy men religiously, many of whom had severe they proved unworthy men religiously, many of whom had severe moral weaknesses,moral weaknesses,

2.2. There were various degrees of brutal subjugation of civilian There were various degrees of brutal subjugation of civilian population, especially in Iraq,population, especially in Iraq,

3.3. By deliberate design Benu Umayya's rulers encouraged race By deliberate design Benu Umayya's rulers encouraged race favoritism, they:favoritism, they:a.a. preferred Syrian Arabs over the Iraqi Arabs, thenpreferred Syrian Arabs over the Iraqi Arabs, thenb.b. preferred Iraqi Arabs over the Ansaar and Muhajiroon of Medina, and preferred Iraqi Arabs over the Ansaar and Muhajiroon of Medina, and c.c. preferred those of Medina to all Converts to Islam (Mawaali),preferred those of Medina to all Converts to Islam (Mawaali),

Social Setbacks caused by Benu UmayyaSocial Setbacks caused by Benu Umayya

Further Setbacks of the Further Setbacks of the Social PolicySocial Policy of Benu of Benu Umayya Umayya

4.4.Benu Umayya regarded the Mawaali (Converts Benu Umayya regarded the Mawaali (Converts to Islam) as second class citizens,to Islam) as second class citizens,

5.5.Benu Umayya's constant harassment of Ahlul Benu Umayya's constant harassment of Ahlul Bayt was deeply resented by the citizens, andBayt was deeply resented by the citizens, and

6.6.Benu Umayya's condemnation and cursing of Benu Umayya's condemnation and cursing of Imam Ali as a State policy over the pulpits was Imam Ali as a State policy over the pulpits was deeply resented and loathsome to most people.deeply resented and loathsome to most people.

Al-Saadiq’s ReactionAl-Saadiq’s Reaction

Since there was much social change and pressing need to explain Since there was much social change and pressing need to explain Islam, Islam, Al‑Saadiq as well as his father and grandfather before him spared no Al‑Saadiq as well as his father and grandfather before him spared no effort to offer that education to the people. effort to offer that education to the people. Al‑Saadiq often explained: Al‑Saadiq often explained:

the Islamic point of view about oppression, injustices, equality, the Islamic point of view about oppression, injustices, equality, quest of knowledge, integrity, telling the truth, and quest of knowledge, integrity, telling the truth, and refinement of character, among other things. refinement of character, among other things.

People compared what Al‑Saadiq was teaching to what they were People compared what Al‑Saadiq was teaching to what they were experiencing at the hands of Benu Umayya, and they resented the experiencing at the hands of Benu Umayya, and they resented the government even more. government even more. People could easily detect the numerous bad in the imperial autocratic People could easily detect the numerous bad in the imperial autocratic government ruling over them versus the ideals Islam was enjoining.government ruling over them versus the ideals Islam was enjoining.

Al-Saadiq’s ReactionAl-Saadiq’s Reaction

1.1. Al‑Saadiq would emphasize the Islamic cardinal rule of Al‑Saadiq would emphasize the Islamic cardinal rule of Enjoining the Good and Preventing the Evil.Enjoining the Good and Preventing the Evil.

2.2. Al‑Saadiq's position was solid and unshakable, there was Al‑Saadiq's position was solid and unshakable, there was no compromise. no compromise.

3.3. Al‑Saadiq's knowledge shed Islamic light on many aspectsAl‑Saadiq's knowledge shed Islamic light on many aspectsa.a. He pointed out the profanity of the rulers or He pointed out the profanity of the rulers or b.b. The profanity of their appointees, and The profanity of their appointees, and c.c. Often their immoral ways. Often their immoral ways.

4.4. He put numerous Islamic points in focus and clarified them, He put numerous Islamic points in focus and clarified them, 5.5. and people of various thoughts appreciated the and people of various thoughts appreciated the

clarifications Al‑Saadiq brought forth.clarifications Al‑Saadiq brought forth.

The Weakening of Benu Umayya RuleThe Weakening of Benu Umayya Rule

Within a few years of Al‑Saadiq's Imamah Within a few years of Al‑Saadiq's Imamah Benu Umayya's rule became weak. Benu Umayya's rule became weak.

Benu Umayya's administration reeled Benu Umayya's administration reeled under:under:

a.a.the frequent social unrest against them, the frequent social unrest against them,

b.b.the economic demands, the economic demands,

c.c.the bad behavior of the rulers, and the bad behavior of the rulers, and

d.d.the incompetence of some of them.  the incompetence of some of them.  

Consequence of Weak Benu Umayya RuleConsequence of Weak Benu Umayya Rule

Weak Benu Umayya Rule resulted in:Weak Benu Umayya Rule resulted in:

halting the spy-works (the Secret Service against Ahlul Bayt) halting the spy-works (the Secret Service against Ahlul Bayt)

Thus leaving Al‑Saadiq free to teach freely and unhampered.Thus leaving Al‑Saadiq free to teach freely and unhampered.

Thus the Institute of Ahlul Bayt flourished and vastly Thus the Institute of Ahlul Bayt flourished and vastly expanded. It was the golden age for it. expanded. It was the golden age for it.

And the more people wanted to learn, the more Al‑Saadiq And the more people wanted to learn, the more Al‑Saadiq was ready to give, was ready to give,

tirelessly, eagerly, tirelessly, eagerly,

and without complaints.and without complaints.

The Underground Movement The Underground Movement

Al‑Saadiq had been the Imam for seven years when his Al‑Saadiq had been the Imam for seven years when his uncle, Zaid Ibn Ali, declared a revolt in Iraq against Benu uncle, Zaid Ibn Ali, declared a revolt in Iraq against Benu UmayyaUmayya

their regime was too un‑Islamic for him to accept.their regime was too un‑Islamic for him to accept.Many years before, Zaid was advised by his brother, (Al-Many years before, Zaid was advised by his brother, (Al-Baaqir):Baaqir):

not to rely on Iraqis, and if he did he would be not to rely on Iraqis, and if he did he would be killed in Kufa and his decapitated body would be killed in Kufa and his decapitated body would be hanged. hanged. Al-Baaqir foretold that Benu Marwan would Al-Baaqir foretold that Benu Marwan would eventually be toppled by Benu Abbas. eventually be toppled by Benu Abbas. 

Benu Umayya and Zaid’s RevoltBenu Umayya and Zaid’s Revolt

Benu Umayya dealt with Zaid’s revolt in an extremely harsh way, Benu Umayya dealt with Zaid’s revolt in an extremely harsh way, especially to the person of Zaid. especially to the person of Zaid.

they not only hanged Zaid's decapitated body in Kufa but left it there for they not only hanged Zaid's decapitated body in Kufa but left it there for several years, several years, and this act sent waves of horror all over. and this act sent waves of horror all over.

Zaid Ibn Ali was highly revered by all people, Zaid Ibn Ali was highly revered by all people, he was a man of great learning, and Abu Hanifa had supported his he was a man of great learning, and Abu Hanifa had supported his revolt. revolt. When the revolt was put down the people felt very bitter, extremely When the revolt was put down the people felt very bitter, extremely offended. offended. Abu Hanifa was put in jail because of his support of Zaid. Abu Hanifa was put in jail because of his support of Zaid. Later Abu Hanifa escaped from jail and left for Medina to join Later Abu Hanifa escaped from jail and left for Medina to join Al‑Saadiq's discourses and teachings at the Institute of Ahlul Bayt.Al‑Saadiq's discourses and teachings at the Institute of Ahlul Bayt.

Benu Umayya and Yahya’s RevoltBenu Umayya and Yahya’s Revolt

Within one to two years of Zaid’s revolt, Yahya (the son Within one to two years of Zaid’s revolt, Yahya (the son of Zaid), also revolted, but in Persia. of Zaid), also revolted, but in Persia. Yahya’s revolt was also put down by Benu Umayya, Yahya’s revolt was also put down by Benu Umayya,

and his body was treated in the same grotesque manner as and his body was treated in the same grotesque manner as his father's. his father's.

Yahya was also a highly regarded person. Yahya was also a highly regarded person. The death of both Zaid and his son Yahya lay very heavy on The death of both Zaid and his son Yahya lay very heavy on the Ummah, the Ummah, but more so on Al‑Saadiq, who mourned them, but more so on Al‑Saadiq, who mourned them, it was too much for him to take, knowing their piety, deep it was too much for him to take, knowing their piety, deep Islamic knowledge, spirituality, and holiness.Islamic knowledge, spirituality, and holiness.

Ways to Get Rid of Benu UmayyaWays to Get Rid of Benu Umayya

With all of the revolts taking place, With all of the revolts taking place, and the people vividly remembering Karbala,and the people vividly remembering Karbala,plus Benu Umayya's ruthless administration, plus Benu Umayya's ruthless administration, an underground movement started to take shape. an underground movement started to take shape.

The aim was to get rid of Benu Umayya by whatever means, once The aim was to get rid of Benu Umayya by whatever means, once and for all. and for all.

The perpetrators were a few members of Benu Abbas and some The perpetrators were a few members of Benu Abbas and some descendants of Imam Al‑Hasan. descendants of Imam Al‑Hasan. According to many narrations Al-Saadiq was in a meeting in which According to many narrations Al-Saadiq was in a meeting in which Al-Hasan's descendants were present, along with Al‑Saffah and Al-Hasan's descendants were present, along with Al‑Saffah and Al‑Mansoor (of Benu Abbas). Al‑Mansoor (of Benu Abbas). They were discussing and planning the Khilaafah after Benu They were discussing and planning the Khilaafah after Benu Umayya would be toppled. Umayya would be toppled.

Al-Saadiq Predicts CorrectlyAl-Saadiq Predicts Correctly

Contrary to the prevailing expectations Contrary to the prevailing expectations

Al-Saadiq accurately foretold that Benu Abbas would be the rulers Al-Saadiq accurately foretold that Benu Abbas would be the rulers of the Ummah and not Al-Hasan's progeny.of the Ummah and not Al-Hasan's progeny.

No one ever believed him at the time. No one ever believed him at the time.

Al-Saadiq's predictions proved accurate to the minutest detail. Al-Saadiq's predictions proved accurate to the minutest detail.

Al‑Saadiq did not want to take part in the movement, Al‑Saadiq did not want to take part in the movement,

for he knew well the people's psychology and their infatuation for he knew well the people's psychology and their infatuation with power. with power.

Besides, Al‑Saadiq preferred to continue to pump vigor in the Besides, Al‑Saadiq preferred to continue to pump vigor in the Institute of Ahlul Bayt, since that very time‑period was ideal for Institute of Ahlul Bayt, since that very time‑period was ideal for the growth and vitality of the Institute.the growth and vitality of the Institute.

Plan of the Revolt Against Benu UmayyaPlan of the Revolt Against Benu Umayya

The plan of the general revolt was clever, and it took The plan of the general revolt was clever, and it took some time to implement. some time to implement.

The leaders appointed agents, spokesmen, and delegates, each The leaders appointed agents, spokesmen, and delegates, each with certain powers. with certain powers. These spokesmen were to go to far away areas, where the These spokesmen were to go to far away areas, where the disadvantaged and the Mawaali formed the majority, disadvantaged and the Mawaali formed the majority, to announce in secret the need for a revolt. to announce in secret the need for a revolt.

The mission was to plead the cause of Ahlul Bayt, and The mission was to plead the cause of Ahlul Bayt, and come to their patronage, come to their patronage,

and to revenge the brutal treatment Benu Umayya had inflicted and to revenge the brutal treatment Benu Umayya had inflicted on Ahlul Bayt. The call was: on Ahlul Bayt. The call was:

To champion Ahlul Bayt and uphold them. To champion Ahlul Bayt and uphold them. آل� من آل� للرضا من للرضامحمدمحمد

The Circumstances of the RevoltThe Circumstances of the Revolt

At this very time Benu Umayya's government was rife with troubles. At this very time Benu Umayya's government was rife with troubles. The many revolts against them had exposed their evil mettle to the The many revolts against them had exposed their evil mettle to the public, public, Their bad administration earned them none but contempt.Their bad administration earned them none but contempt.Even the garrisons they erected in many parts of the country were Even the garrisons they erected in many parts of the country were regarded as alien, so they were despised. regarded as alien, so they were despised. Besides, the teachings of Ahlul Bayt had exposed their evil ways: Besides, the teachings of Ahlul Bayt had exposed their evil ways:

their excessive ruthlessness and cruelty, their excessive ruthlessness and cruelty, Their immoral behavior (more so in the Khalifa's courts), and Their immoral behavior (more so in the Khalifa's courts), and their arrogance, egotism, and narcissism of some. their arrogance, egotism, and narcissism of some. The public was also aware of the distortions of the Hadith The public was also aware of the distortions of the Hadith which produced much confusion.which produced much confusion.

The Clan of Benu Umayya thenThe Clan of Benu Umayya then

Besides, Benu Umayya clan fought among themselves.Besides, Benu Umayya clan fought among themselves.The clan was about 40,000 by then, split into many factions, The clan was about 40,000 by then, split into many factions, each clamoring for the splendor of the Khilaafah and the uncanny each clamoring for the splendor of the Khilaafah and the uncanny social standing, luxuries and high comfort living. social standing, luxuries and high comfort living. Benu Umayya went in battle against each other, so that at one Benu Umayya went in battle against each other, so that at one time about 18,000 fell as casualties (Al-Bidaaya and Nihaaya, time about 18,000 fell as casualties (Al-Bidaaya and Nihaaya, Ibn Katheer.). Ibn Katheer.). And while this was taking place, there came about uprisings in, And while this was taking place, there came about uprisings in,

a.a. Arabia proper where in Medina they dismissed their Governor, Arabia proper where in Medina they dismissed their Governor, b.b. an uprising in Egypt, an uprising in Egypt, c.c. an uprising in Jordan, an uprising in Jordan, d.d. two an uprisings in Syria Proper, andtwo an uprisings in Syria Proper, ande.e. one uprising in Palestineone uprising in Palestine (Seerah of the twelve Imams, H. M. Al-Hassani, Vol. (Seerah of the twelve Imams, H. M. Al-Hassani, Vol.

2, Page 228.).2, Page 228.).

The Revolt and Abu MuslimThe Revolt and Abu Muslim

Abu Muslim, a Persian, was a shrewd person who sided with Benu Abu Muslim, a Persian, was a shrewd person who sided with Benu Abbas.Abbas.

He was a skillful leader who played the game of politics exceptionally He was a skillful leader who played the game of politics exceptionally well.well.He was no different than Mu'awiya in:He was no different than Mu'awiya in:

dealing and wheeling, dealing and wheeling, undermining, and cuttingundermining, and cuttingbribing, andbribing, andmaking alliances with people in sensitive positions. making alliances with people in sensitive positions.

Abu Muslim was also:Abu Muslim was also:cruel to his adversaries, cruel to his adversaries, a killer, and a killer, and somewhat bloodthirsty man.somewhat bloodthirsty man.

The Revolt and Abu MuslimThe Revolt and Abu Muslim

Abu Muslim Al-Khurasani declared his call in the name of Ahlul Bayt. Abu Muslim Al-Khurasani declared his call in the name of Ahlul Bayt. Having heard that the call was in support of Ahlul Bayt Having heard that the call was in support of Ahlul Bayt

The people rose impatiently, enthusiastically, and energetically. The people rose impatiently, enthusiastically, and energetically. They took up arms for a major revolt against their hated Benu They took up arms for a major revolt against their hated Benu Umayya,Umayya,

Benu Umayya were the very ones who had ruthlessly ruled themBenu Umayya were the very ones who had ruthlessly ruled themBenu Umayya ruled at the expense of the common man.Benu Umayya ruled at the expense of the common man.

The revolting Mawaali were the majority,The revolting Mawaali were the majority,The Mawaali were the ones who had converted to Islam The Mawaali were the ones who had converted to Islam and whom Benu Umayya looked down upon, denying their rights. and whom Benu Umayya looked down upon, denying their rights. They were the ones regarded by Benu Umayya as second class They were the ones regarded by Benu Umayya as second class citizens.citizens.

The Revolt and Benu AbbasThe Revolt and Benu Abbas

The forces of Abu Muslim continued to expand and make headway. The forces of Abu Muslim continued to expand and make headway. They conquered a large area of Khurasan of Persia, They conquered a large area of Khurasan of Persia, then they expanded and moved towards Iraq.then they expanded and moved towards Iraq.

Benu Abbas were instrumental in this, with their representatives active, Benu Abbas were instrumental in this, with their representatives active, stirring the emotions for Ahlul Bayt, and to topple of Benu Umayya. stirring the emotions for Ahlul Bayt, and to topple of Benu Umayya. However, Benu Abbas' spokesmen never mentioned who of Ahlul Bayt However, Benu Abbas' spokesmen never mentioned who of Ahlul Bayt was to be in charge afterwards, or who was going to be the next Khalifa. was to be in charge afterwards, or who was going to be the next Khalifa.

The trick was clever, since the majority were assuming that The trick was clever, since the majority were assuming that Al‑Saadiq, was the very person who was expected to be the Khalifa. Al‑Saadiq, was the very person who was expected to be the Khalifa. They thought that the revolt was not only against Benu Umayya but They thought that the revolt was not only against Benu Umayya but for Al‑Saadiq to be the man in charge of the Ummah.for Al‑Saadiq to be the man in charge of the Ummah.

In the Meantime, in Iraq In the Meantime, in Iraq

Much of the planning and direction of the new movement was taking Much of the planning and direction of the new movement was taking place in Iraq. place in Iraq. In Iraq the sympathizers to Ahlul Bayt were numerous, and the new call In Iraq the sympathizers to Ahlul Bayt were numerous, and the new call was like a breath of fresh air to them. was like a breath of fresh air to them. People took up arms, and under a unified leadership their call was to People took up arms, and under a unified leadership their call was to gratify Ahlul Bayt, to make good the wrongs dealt to them by Benu gratify Ahlul Bayt, to make good the wrongs dealt to them by Benu Umayya. Umayya. The move was swift, so much so that Iraq soon was no longer under the The move was swift, so much so that Iraq soon was no longer under the rule of Benu Umayya.rule of Benu Umayya.Benu Abbas were particularly active in Hijaz too. Benu Abbas were particularly active in Hijaz too.

They frequently raised their voice to plead the cause of Ahlul Bayt. They frequently raised their voice to plead the cause of Ahlul Bayt. People soon came on their side, and swift mobilization took place,People soon came on their side, and swift mobilization took place,It was administered by Al‑Saffah and Al‑Mansoor, among others.It was administered by Al‑Saffah and Al‑Mansoor, among others.

Multiple Revolts Against Benu UmayyaMultiple Revolts Against Benu Umayya

Zaap

Iraq: At the Zaap River, Iraq: At the Zaap River,

Meanwhile, the final ruler of the now enfeebled Benu Umayya, Marwan Meanwhile, the final ruler of the now enfeebled Benu Umayya, Marwan the Ass the Ass (as he was nick‑named by people),(as he was nick‑named by people),

was busy fighting off the Kharijis in Arabia. was busy fighting off the Kharijis in Arabia. As soon as Marwan the Ass prevailed over the Kharijis,As soon as Marwan the Ass prevailed over the Kharijis,He sped toward Iraq, though quite weakened by now.He sped toward Iraq, though quite weakened by now.

It was in Iraq, at the Zaap River, where a prolonged and ferocious battle It was in Iraq, at the Zaap River, where a prolonged and ferocious battle took place between Marwan's forces and the forces from Iraq.  took place between Marwan's forces and the forces from Iraq.  The force from Iraq was sent by Al‑Saffah of Benu Abbas, The force from Iraq was sent by Al‑Saffah of Benu Abbas,

and it consisted mostly of the sympathizers of Ahlul Bayt, who were sick and it consisted mostly of the sympathizers of Ahlul Bayt, who were sick and tired of Benu Umayya.  and tired of Benu Umayya.  The battle took several days, and it is said that numerous retreating The battle took several days, and it is said that numerous retreating fighters of Benu Umayya forces threw themselves in the flooding Zaap fighters of Benu Umayya forces threw themselves in the flooding Zaap river, and drowned.  river, and drowned. 

And that is how Benu Umayya lost their rule for good. And that is how Benu Umayya lost their rule for good.

Marwan the AssMarwan the Ass

Along with his family Marwan the Ass fled the pursuing forces, Along with his family Marwan the Ass fled the pursuing forces, But he was arrested not too long afterwards in Egypt and put to the But he was arrested not too long afterwards in Egypt and put to the sword.  sword.  His family, however, was able to flee from Egypt to Abyssinia, then His family, however, was able to flee from Egypt to Abyssinia, then to Arabia.  to Arabia.  Marwan's two sons were finally captured and executed.  Marwan's two sons were finally captured and executed.  Thus a harrowing end came to Benu Umayya. Thus a harrowing end came to Benu Umayya. (Murooj Al-Dhahab, Al-(Murooj Al-Dhahab, Al-Mas'oodi, Vol. 3, Page 246.)Mas'oodi, Vol. 3, Page 246.)

The nation took a breather, people were well pleased, The nation took a breather, people were well pleased, be it Arabs or Mawaali (Converts to Islam), be it Arabs or Mawaali (Converts to Islam), all except those who were members of Benu Umayya clan or all except those who were members of Benu Umayya clan or

their patrons, beneficiaries, or opportunists who had their patrons, beneficiaries, or opportunists who had unreservedly lived off the Islamic Ummah.unreservedly lived off the Islamic Ummah.

The Remnant of Benu Umayya ClanThe Remnant of Benu Umayya Clan

As for the remnant of Benu Umayya clan, As for the remnant of Benu Umayya clan, they were chased and hunted everywhere by Benu Abbas, no matter they were chased and hunted everywhere by Benu Abbas, no matter where they hid or went in disguise.  where they hid or went in disguise.  Benu Abbas and their loyalists put the sword to their adversaries, Benu Abbas and their loyalists put the sword to their adversaries, and for some time it was a bloody bath, mostly in Syria.  and for some time it was a bloody bath, mostly in Syria.  Benu Abbas went so far as to dig out the graves of all the rulers of Benu Abbas went so far as to dig out the graves of all the rulers of Benu Umayya, get the remnants out and burn them, for such was the Benu Umayya, get the remnants out and burn them, for such was the pent up hatred toward them.  pent up hatred toward them.  When Benu Abbas dug out Yazid's grave they found a black line of When Benu Abbas dug out Yazid's grave they found a black line of dust but no remnants, except for one bone.  dust but no remnants, except for one bone.  They dug up Hisham's body (the one who killed Zaid the pious) and They dug up Hisham's body (the one who killed Zaid the pious) and burned the remnants.  burned the remnants.  Mind you, disturbing graves in itself is un‑Islamic, but such were the Mind you, disturbing graves in itself is un‑Islamic, but such were the emotions against Benu Umayya. (Murooj Al-Dhahab, Al-Mas'oodi, emotions against Benu Umayya. (Murooj Al-Dhahab, Al-Mas'oodi, Vol. 3, Page 207.) Vol. 3, Page 207.) 

Al-Saadiq was contemporary to:Al-Saadiq was contemporary to:

1.1. Abdul Malik, who ruled for 21 years.Abdul Malik, who ruled for 21 years.2.2. Al‑Waleed son of Abdul Malik, who ruled for 9 years.Al‑Waleed son of Abdul Malik, who ruled for 9 years.3.3. Suleiman son of Abdul Malik who ruled for 2½ yearsSuleiman son of Abdul Malik who ruled for 2½ years4.4. Omar son of Abdul Aziz who ruled for 2½ yearsOmar son of Abdul Aziz who ruled for 2½ years5.5. Yazid II son of Abdul Malik who ruled for 4 yearsYazid II son of Abdul Malik who ruled for 4 years6.6. Hisham son of Abdul Malik who ruled for 19½ yearsHisham son of Abdul Malik who ruled for 19½ years7.7. Al‑Waleed grandson of Abdul Malik who ruled for 1 yearsAl‑Waleed grandson of Abdul Malik who ruled for 1 years8.8. Yazid III son of Al‑Waleed who ruled for 5 monthsYazid III son of Al‑Waleed who ruled for 5 months9.9. Ibrahim, son of Al‑Waleed who ruled for 4 monthsIbrahim, son of Al‑Waleed who ruled for 4 months10.10.Marwan the Ass, as he was named by the people. who ruled for 5 yearsMarwan the Ass, as he was named by the people. who ruled for 5 years11.11.Al-Saffah of Benu Abbas who ruled for 4 ½ years Al-Saffah of Benu Abbas who ruled for 4 ½ years 12.12.Al-Mansoor of Benu Abbas who ruled for 22 years.Al-Mansoor of Benu Abbas who ruled for 22 years.

Islamic World During Benu Umayya KhilaafahIslamic World During Benu Umayya Khilaafah

MediterraneanMediterranean

SpainSpain

TransoxaniaTransoxania

Sind AreaSind Area

Al‑Saffah of Benu Abbas Al‑Saffah of Benu Abbas

With Al‑Saadiq's refusal to take the Khilaafah, the people were With Al‑Saadiq's refusal to take the Khilaafah, the people were resigned to acknowledge Al‑Saffah as the new ruler, the Khalifa.  resigned to acknowledge Al‑Saffah as the new ruler, the Khalifa.  Al‑Saffah ruled for about 4 years Al‑Saffah ruled for about 4 years

during which time he and his brother Al‑Mansoor made sure to during which time he and his brother Al‑Mansoor made sure to liquidate the powerful sympathizers of Ahlul Bayt.  liquidate the powerful sympathizers of Ahlul Bayt.  Strange, now the new rulers were after the very ones who helped Strange, now the new rulers were after the very ones who helped them to victory in the name of gratifying Ahlul Bayt. them to victory in the name of gratifying Ahlul Bayt. 

Al‑Saffah and later his brother Al‑Mansoor were exclusively Al‑Saffah and later his brother Al‑Mansoor were exclusively interested in consolidating their rule.  interested in consolidating their rule. 

They turned out not too different from Benu Umayya. They turned out not too different from Benu Umayya. They also were frightened that their grip on power would soon be They also were frightened that their grip on power would soon be toppled by Ahlul Bayt's sympathizers and devotees.  toppled by Ahlul Bayt's sympathizers and devotees. 

Al‑Saffah of Benu AbbasAl‑Saffah of Benu Abbas

Therefore, to consolidate their rule, Al-Saffah and his brother Al-Therefore, to consolidate their rule, Al-Saffah and his brother Al-Mansoor made sure to liquidate the leaders of the movement.  Mansoor made sure to liquidate the leaders of the movement. 

They concentrated on the most prominent leaders, the very They concentrated on the most prominent leaders, the very ones who were instrumental in gaining them victory. ones who were instrumental in gaining them victory. They even killed Abu Muslim They even killed Abu Muslim

in a deceptive and treacherous way, in a deceptive and treacherous way, the man who was such a leader in toppling Benu the man who was such a leader in toppling Benu Umayya.  Umayya.  They did the same thing with other prominent men.They did the same thing with other prominent men.

Within 4 years Al‑Saffah died of small‑pox.  His brother, Within 4 years Al‑Saffah died of small‑pox.  His brother, Al‑Mansoor, took his place as the new Khalifa.Al‑Mansoor, took his place as the new Khalifa.

Benu Abbas and Al‑Mansoor Benu Abbas and Al‑Mansoor

The leaders of Benu Abbas were cautious at first.  They needed to,The leaders of Benu Abbas were cautious at first.  They needed to,a.a. Consolidate their hold on the Khilaafah,Consolidate their hold on the Khilaafah,b.b. Experience ruling a whole nation,Experience ruling a whole nation,c.c. Appoint governors and an administrative body, Appoint governors and an administrative body, d.d. Appease the sympathizers who felt betrayed by not having one of Appease the sympathizers who felt betrayed by not having one of

Ahlul Bayt's leadership, Ahlul Bayt's leadership, e.e. Give power to the Mawaali (Converts to Islam) to sustain their Give power to the Mawaali (Converts to Islam) to sustain their

support, and support, and f.f. To let the members and family of Ahlul Bayt be free in their To let the members and family of Ahlul Bayt be free in their

educational endeavor.educational endeavor.Unlike Benu Umayya, Benu Abbas claimed they represented Islam, that Unlike Benu Umayya, Benu Abbas claimed they represented Islam, that by right the Khilaafah was theirs.  Their policy materialized in such a way by right the Khilaafah was theirs.  Their policy materialized in such a way that many of their rulers that many of their rulers dabbled with Islam itselfdabbled with Islam itself without sure knowledge without sure knowledge about it.about it.

As a resultAs a result

As a result, from now on the times changed fundamentally:As a result, from now on the times changed fundamentally:The rulers started to claim that Khilaafah was their right Islamicly,The rulers started to claim that Khilaafah was their right Islamicly,

To gain respect in the eyes of the public, they appointed To gain respect in the eyes of the public, they appointed prominent members of the Piety‑minded community into prominent members of the Piety‑minded community into important if not sensitive positions.  important if not sensitive positions.  This was a clever move to appease these influential people.This was a clever move to appease these influential people.The Mawaali were given the greatest share in administering the The Mawaali were given the greatest share in administering the country,country,

The seat of power moved from Syria to Iraq, andThe seat of power moved from Syria to Iraq, andAhlul Bayt were free at first, not under surveillance, a nice Ahlul Bayt were free at first, not under surveillance, a nice respite.  respite.  This continued for about 10 years.This continued for about 10 years.

Meanwhile the Institute of Ahlul Bayt Meanwhile the Institute of Ahlul Bayt

At this time‑period the Institute of Ahlul Bayt reached its zenith in content, At this time‑period the Institute of Ahlul Bayt reached its zenith in content, material discussed, and the number of enrollees.  material discussed, and the number of enrollees.  Abu Hanifa, who was imprisoned by Benu Umayya (due to his support of Abu Hanifa, who was imprisoned by Benu Umayya (due to his support of Zaid Ibn Ali), had escaped prison and joined the Institute for two years.  Zaid Ibn Ali), had escaped prison and joined the Institute for two years.  Later he endearingly referred to those years by saying, "Were it not for Later he endearingly referred to those years by saying, "Were it not for those two years, he would have perished," for such was the Institute's those two years, he would have perished," for such was the Institute's influence on his views, Fiqh, analogy, and the manner of thinking.influence on his views, Fiqh, analogy, and the manner of thinking.As long as there was freedom of expression, the Institute flourished and As long as there was freedom of expression, the Institute flourished and benefited everyone.  benefited everyone.  This freedom continued for a number of years during Benu Abbas initial This freedom continued for a number of years during Benu Abbas initial rule, rule, But it ended when the Al‑Mansoor reversed his policy a few years laterBut it ended when the Al‑Mansoor reversed his policy a few years laterHe put surveillance on the school and the person of Al‑Saadiq in He put surveillance on the school and the person of Al‑Saadiq in particular, just as Benu Umayya used to do in past years.particular, just as Benu Umayya used to do in past years.

The Institute graduatesThe Institute graduatesEducational works of Al-SaadiqEducational works of Al-Saadiq

During Al-Saadiq’s During Al-Saadiq’s Imamah, 4,000 Imamah, 4,000 Scholars graduated.Scholars graduated.Many Scholars of Al-Many Scholars of Al-Baaqir continued Baaqir continued afterward with Imam afterward with Imam Al-SaadiqAl-SaadiqThe graph shows the The graph shows the growth of the scholars’ growth of the scholars’ numbersnumbersThis remarkable This remarkable growth came only growth came only when pressure on when pressure on Ahlul Bayt eased offAhlul Bayt eased off

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Early Later days Middle Period Final period

Al‑Mansoor the KhalifaAl‑Mansoor the Khalifa

Al‑Mansoor was a man of great insight, and it was due to his efforts that Al‑Mansoor was a man of great insight, and it was due to his efforts that the influence of Benu Abbas endured. the influence of Benu Abbas endured. Al‑Mansoor was an astute politician and able administrator, but was Al‑Mansoor was an astute politician and able administrator, but was bloodthirsty as an enemy and wouldn't trust anyone.  bloodthirsty as an enemy and wouldn't trust anyone.  He would murder on the slightest suspicion.He would murder on the slightest suspicion.Al‑Mansoor, was a 4th generation descendant of Ibn Abbas, (who was Al‑Mansoor, was a 4th generation descendant of Ibn Abbas, (who was the student of Imam Ali and the renowned scholar in Medina).  the student of Imam Ali and the renowned scholar in Medina).  In his early years Al‑Mansoor used to be pursued by the now defunct In his early years Al‑Mansoor used to be pursued by the now defunct Benu Umayya. Benu Umayya. Al‑Mansoor was hunted by Benu Umayya for his activities against themAl‑Mansoor was hunted by Benu Umayya for his activities against themHe was one of the chief architects of the revolts against Benu Umayya.He was one of the chief architects of the revolts against Benu Umayya.Al‑Mansoor was well versed in intrigue and conspiracy, therefore, he Al‑Mansoor was well versed in intrigue and conspiracy, therefore, he learned to be extremely suspicious if not paranoid.learned to be extremely suspicious if not paranoid.

Al‑Mansoor Builds BaghdadAl‑Mansoor Builds Baghdad

At that period in time Kufa was a very large city,At that period in time Kufa was a very large city,boasting different nationalities, religions, and ideologies.  boasting different nationalities, religions, and ideologies.  Kufa was well known to be the seat of learning of great importance,Kufa was well known to be the seat of learning of great importance,Kufa was an intellectual center, boasting people of numerous points Kufa was an intellectual center, boasting people of numerous points of view, but each claiming to be right.  of view, but each claiming to be right. 

Kufa was also the seat of intrigue, therefore, Al‑Mansoor wanted to be Kufa was also the seat of intrigue, therefore, Al‑Mansoor wanted to be away.  away. 

He wanted to start fresh, in a far away area.  He wanted to start fresh, in a far away area.  Al‑Mansoor therefore decided to build a new city to be the capital of Al‑Mansoor therefore decided to build a new city to be the capital of the nation under his rule:  the nation under his rule:  He built He built Baghdad.Baghdad.

        As to the Specifics of Al‑Mansoor As to the Specifics of Al‑Mansoor

Al-Mansoor was a highly suspicious or a paranoid man,Al-Mansoor was a highly suspicious or a paranoid man,a firm but able administrator and the founder of Benu Abbas rule and a firm but able administrator and the founder of Benu Abbas rule and administration,administration,very stingy and tightfisted,very stingy and tightfisted,autocratic, who used brutal suppression of any opposition or even autocratic, who used brutal suppression of any opposition or even upon suspicion,upon suspicion,Continued the Khilaafah by inheritance as Monarchy (Caesar‑like), Continued the Khilaafah by inheritance as Monarchy (Caesar‑like), Built Baghdad,Built Baghdad,

Al‑Mansoor, being paranoid, was frightened that Al‑Saadiq might call to Al‑Mansoor, being paranoid, was frightened that Al‑Saadiq might call to topple Benu Abbas' regime.topple Benu Abbas' regime.Al‑Mansoor ruled for about 21 years leaving a full treasury.Al‑Mansoor ruled for about 21 years leaving a full treasury.Al‑Mansoor did not believe in giving a gift just for frivolous requests or Al‑Mansoor did not believe in giving a gift just for frivolous requests or reasons.  Many feared him, respected him, but at the same time disliked reasons.  Many feared him, respected him, but at the same time disliked him.him.

Picture of Al-Baqii Before & After 1925

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

In ConclusionIn Conclusion

Political happenings during Al-Saadiq's Political happenings during Al-Saadiq's lifetime lifetime Al-Saadiq was witness to:Al-Saadiq was witness to:

The need for Islamic knowledge, specified The need for Islamic knowledge, specified and categorizedand categorizedThe waning of Benu Umayya PowerThe waning of Benu Umayya PowerThe advent of Benu Abbas PowerThe advent of Benu Abbas PowerMuch social upheavalsMuch social upheavalsThe building of BaghdadThe building of Baghdad

Be in Allah’s CareBe in Allah’s Care

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

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