The Scholar Who Refused New Clothes: Sayyid Muḥammad Bāqir al-Ṣadr and Eid al-Fiṭr

In the 1970s, during a time of political repression in Iraq, Sayyid Muḥammad Bāqir al-Ṣadr became a beacon of hope for the oppressed. Despite his status as a leading Marjaʿ and intellectual giant, he lived a life of immense simplicity. His actions reflected the core of Islamic teachings: humility, compassion, and justice. Sayyid al-Ṣadr’s profound commitment to these values set him apart as a religious leader who not only spoke for the marginalized but lived in a way that reflected their struggles.

One year, on the eve of Eid al-Fiṭr, a close student noticed that Sayyid al-Ṣadr was still wearing his old, worn-out cloak. It was a simple garment, faded and frayed at the edges, far from the new robes that were customary for the occasion. Concerned, the student gently said, “Sayyidnā, perhaps you should wear a new robe for Eid tomorrow—people look to you, and it would be good for morale.” The student’s suggestion was not out of vanity, but from a genuine desire to see the Sayyid recognized and honoured, as his leadership and teachings were a source of great inspiration for many.

The Sayyid, however, smiled kindly and responded in a manner that conveyed both his deep empathy and unwavering commitment to his principles: “How can I wear something new while I know the poor in Najaf cannot afford even bread for their children?” This simple statement was a reflection of his awareness of the dire circumstances faced by the less fortunate in his community. For Sayyid al-Ṣadr, personal indulgence was not justifiable when the basic needs of others were unmet.

He then added, “This cloak will do. It’s clean, and it serves its purpose. My joy on Eid comes from knowing I’ve fulfilled my duty to Allah and shared what little I have.” The message was clear: Eid for him was not a time for superficial displays of wealth or status but for spiritual fulfilment and selfless acts of charity. It was a reminder that the essence of the holiday was in sharing blessings with others, particularly those in need.

That night, Sayyid al-Ṣadr instructed his family to take the money that had been set aside for any Eid shopping and donate it to a struggling widow whose husband had been imprisoned by the regime. He emphasized that this act should be done quietly, with no names mentioned, ensuring that the widow would receive the help without any shame or attention. This act exemplified his deep sense of social justice and compassion, as well as his belief in the importance of supporting those who were most vulnerable.

On Eid morning, he led the prayer with his usual calm and composed demeanour, wearing the same robe. His sermon, delivered with sincerity and passion, called for love, solidarity, and a commitment to justice for the oppressed. Through his actions, Sayyid al-Ṣadr not only preached but also embodied the values he held dear, making him a revered figure who inspired generations to come.

The Three Days of Hunger

It was the month of Ramadan in Medina, and the air was filled with the fragrance of freshly baked bread from the humble home of Imam Ali (a) and Sayyida Fatima (a). As the golden light of sunset signaled the time to break their fast, Imam Hasan (a) and Imam Hussain (a) eagerly sat down, their small hands reaching for the food they had longed for all day. The hunger they had felt since dawn made the meal even more precious.

Just as they were about to take their first bite, a faint knock echoed from the door. Sayyida Fatima (a) immediately rose and went to answer it. A poor beggar stood before her; his eyes full of desperation.

“O family of the Prophet,” he pleaded, “I am starving and have nothing to eat. Can you spare me some food?”

Imam Ali (a) looked at his family and smiled gently. Without hesitation, he motioned for his family to give everything they had. One by one, they handed their bread over to the beggar, leaving themselves with nothing but water. Despite their own hunger, they felt compassion for the man’s suffering.

That night, the family went to bed hungry, but their hearts were filled with contentment in their sacrifice for the sake of Allah.

The next day, they fasted again. As the sun set, signalling the time to break their fast, another knock came at the door. This time, it was an orphan, shivering from hunger. Sayyida Fatima (a) opened the door, and once again, the family gave up their food, placing their last meal in the hands of the orphan. They chose to remain hungry rather than turn someone away.

On the third night, after fasting throughout the day, the family prepared to eat, but another figure appeared at the door—a prisoner, frail and exhausted from captivity. His plea for food was met with the same selflessness. Imam Ali (a), Sayyida Fatima (a), Imam Hasan (a), and Imam Hussain (a) shared their remaining food with the prisoner, leaving nothing for themselves.

For three days, this noble family went without food, choosing sacrifice and compassion for others over their own comfort. Their devotion to Allah and care for others, even in their time of need, was a profound act of faith.

Allah, pleased with their selflessness, revealed Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9):

“They give food, despite their love for it, to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, (saying) ‘We feed you for the sake of Allah alone; we desire neither reward nor thanks from you.’”

On the fourth day, as their hunger became unbearable, Allah sent them heavenly sustenance as a divine reward. Their story became an eternal lesson: true fasting is not just abstaining from food, but practicing selflessness, compassion, and putting others before our own desires. The family of the Prophet’s example continues to inspire all who seek to live a life of generosity and humility.