An inspirational tale from the life of the eighth Imam (ʿa)

During his time in Ṭūs, Imam ʿAlī al-Riḍā (ʿa) was under the close scrutiny of the Abbasid regime, which sought to limit his influence. However, despite the challenges, the Imam found ways to uphold the legacy of the Prophet Muhammad (ṣ) and safeguard the truth of Wilāyah, the divinely appointed leadership of the Ahl al-Bayt. One of the most remarkable ways he did this was by openly celebrating Yawm al-Ghadīr, a day of profound significance in Islamic history.

One of his devoted companions, Rayyān ibn al-Ṣalt, narrates an event that took place on the 18th of Dhū al-Ḥijjah, the day of Ghadīr. He says, “I visited Imam al-Riḍā (ʿa) on this day. He was fasting, and he had instructed that a special feast be prepared for the occasion. He also asked us to wear our finest clothes, give charity, and express joy in honor of this sacred day.”

The Imam (ʿa) then addressed his companions with a powerful reminder: “Today is the day when the Prophet (ṣ) raised the hand of ʿAlī (ʿa) and declared: ‘Whomsoever I am his mawla, ʿAlī is his mawla.’ This is the day on which the religion was perfected and the blessing of Allah was completed.”

He continued: “This is the greatest of Eids in the eyes of Allah. On this day, whoever feeds another believer, brings joy to a fellow believer, or revives the remembrance of ʿAlī’s wilāyah will be among those whose hearts are firm in faith. On the Day of Judgement, they will stand with us.”

Despite the political risks he faced, Imam al-Riḍā (ʿa) boldly upheld the truth of Ghadīr. He encouraged the Ummah to remember and honour the divine appointment of Imam ʿAlī (ʿa). His actions serve as a timeless reminder: Ghadīr is not just a historical event, but a living covenant of truth, love, and loyalty that continues to guide us today.