Habib ibn Isa ibn Muhammad Al-Ajami, a renowned figure in Islamic mysticism (Sufism) during the 2nd century AH, was originally from Persia and lived in the city of Basra. He was a prominent disciple of the great spiritual guide Al-Hasan Al-Basri, and became one of the most well-known spiritual figures of his time.
Personal Background
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Full Name: Habib ibn Isa ibn Muhammad
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Kunya (Honorific): Abu Muhammad
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Title: Al-Ajami (The Persian)
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Origin: Persia
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Residence: Basra (Iraq)
Journey of Repentance and Spiritual Transformation
In the beginning of his life, Habib was a merchant. One day, while walking through the marketplace, he overheard some children calling him a “usurer” (moneylender who charges interest). Deeply shaken, he said:
“O my Lord, even the children know my sins!”
Struck by guilt and remorse, he went to Al-Hasan Al-Basri and asked for guidance on how to repent. With encouragement and direction, he sincerely repented, returned the rights to those he had wronged, gave his wife her dowry back, and withdrew from worldly life to devote himself to worship and learning.
He built a small retreat near the river, dedicating himself to prayer, asceticism, and knowledge under the guidance of Al-Hasan Al-Basri.
Famous Stories and Miracles (Karamat)
1. Answered Prayer During a Famine
During a severe famine in Basra, Habib bought food and distributed it among the poor. Afterward, he stitched his empty money bags and placed them under his head, praying to God sincerely.
The next day, creditors came to collect their dues. Miraculously, when he opened the same bags, they were filled with silver coins, exactly enough to repay all debts.
2. Divine Provision for His Wife
Once, his former wife asked him for financial support. He replied:
“I am currently serving at the door of a Generous One (i.e., God), and I am ashamed to ask Him for wages before the appointed time. He promised me after ten days.”
After ten days, a radiant young man came to her with a pouch containing 300 silver coins, bags of flour, honey, and butter. He said:
“This is the wage of Habib’s service. Tell him: if he increases his service, we will increase his reward.”
When Habib returned and heard the story, he wept and said:
“If this is the reward for ten days, what is the reward for a lifetime of sincere worship?”
3. The Miraculous Return of a Son
An elderly woman once came to Habib crying, saying:
“My son has been away in travel for years. I do not know if he is alive or dead.”
Habib asked if she had anything of value. She gave him two silver coins, which he told her to give to the poor. Then he said:
“Return to your home, and if God wills, your wish shall be granted.”
When she returned, she found her son already at home. He told her:
“I was in Kerman buying meat for my master when a strong wind blew. I heard a voice say, ‘O wind, carry this young man to his mother.’ And suddenly, I found myself here!”
His Spiritual Path
Habib Al-Ajami followed the ‘Aliyyah Sufi path, transmitted to him by Al-Hasan Al-Basri. He was known for his sincerity, humility, asceticism, and spiritual insight. Many seekers were guided through his example and words.
Death
He passed away in the year 119 AH (approx. 737 CE). His name remains revered among the righteous and those who walk the path of God.
References
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Jami‘ Karamat Al-Awliya’ – Yusuf Al-Nabhani – p. 387
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Tabaqat Al-Awliya’ – Ibn Al-Mulaqqin – p. 182
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Tadhkirat Al-Awliya’ – Murtadha ibn Muhammad Al-Nadhmi Al-Baghdadi – pp. 156–158