The Dream That Changed History

In the golden age of Baghdad, a city of scholars and poets, a young boy named Muhammad ibn Nu‘man wandered through centres of learning, driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Though raised among Sunni scholars, his heart yearned for a deeper understanding of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (saw) and his family, Ahlul Bayt (as). Yet, lingering doubts troubled him—why was their status a matter of contention?

One evening, exhausted from study, Muhammad fell into a deep sleep and had a dream that would change his life forever.

He found himself in a realm bathed in divine light. Before him stood celestial figures, with the Prophet Muhammad (saw) at the centre. To his right, radiant and sorrowful, stood Lady Fatima al-Zahra (as). Her voice carried both grief and determination as she addressed the Prophet:

“O Messenger of Allah, teach this child how to defend the rights of my sons!”

The Prophet (saw) looked upon Muhammad with wisdom beyond time and nodded. Beside him, Imam Ali (as) placed a firm yet gentle hand on the boy’s shoulder. In that moment, Muhammad felt a surge of knowledge and purpose flood his soul. A veil had been lifted—he had been chosen for a mission.

When he awoke, he was no longer the same. The dream had ignited a fire within him. He dedicated himself not just to learning, but to defending the truth of Ahlul Bayt (as). His brilliance in debate and clarity in argument soon made him renowned. No longer just Muhammad ibn Nu‘man, he became Shaykh al-Mufīd—“The Beneficial”.

His presence in Baghdad became legendary. He engaged in intellectual duels, refuting misconceptions and illuminating the truth. His knowledge, integrity, and defence of the Prophet’s family earned him the highest respect.

But his influence did not end with him. Among his students were two brothers who would shape Islamic thought for generations: Sayyid al-Raḍī and Sayyid al-Murtaḍā.

Sayyid al-Raḍī, a brilliant poet and scholar, would compile Nahj al-Balāgha, preserving the sermons and wisdom of Imam Ali (as). His brother, Sayyid al-Murtaḍā, would become a towering figure in theology and jurisprudence, continuing the legacy of their master.

Shaykh al-Mufīd’s books remain widely studied, his debates still inspire, and his dedication stands as a guiding light for seekers of truth. His life teaches that knowledge is not merely acquired—it is entrusted to those destined to defend it.

Perhaps, in the silence of the night, divine guidance reaches those chosen for greatness. And perhaps, as with Shaykh al-Mufīd, a single dream can change the course of history.