His Birth and Upbringing

• Imam Musa bin Ja’far Al-Kadhim (peace be upon him) was born in the year in 129 AH in the village of Al-Abwa, between Mecca and Medina.

• He was raised in the house of prophethood and knowledge, living with his father Imam Ja’far Al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) for 20 years. After that, he took the position of Imam and continued his mission for 35 years.

His Titles

  • Al-Kadhim: Because of his ability to restrain his anger and maintain patience.
  • Bab Al-Hawa’ij: This title refers to his great ability to fulfill the needs of others.
  • At-Tiryak Al-Mujarrab: Due to the effectiveness of his supplications and miracles that fulfill wishes.

His Lineage and Family

• Imam Musa Al-Kadhim descends from a noble family. He is the son of Imam Ja’far Al-Sadiq, the grandson of Imam Muhammad Al-Baqir, and the great-grandson of Imam Ali Zayn Al-Abidin, from the family of Imam Hussein bin Ali bin Abi Talib (peace be upon them).

• His mother was Hamida Al-Musaffa, a Berber woman from North Africa, who was said to be of Andalusian origin. She had a vision in which she was told she would give birth to a child who would have no veil between him and Allah.

His Personal Attributes

• Imam Al-Kadhim (peace be upon him) was of dark complexion, of average height, with great dignity and respect.

• He was known for his strong resolve, being the most pious, knowledgeable, and generous person of his time.

• He would regularly check on the poor in Medina, offering them money secretly, so no one would know of his charitable acts.

His Spiritual Life and Mysticism

• Imam Al-Kadhim (peace be upon him) was distinguished by his remarkable ability to worship and his asceticism in the world, making him one of the most prominent figures in his era in terms of knowledge and faith.

• He was quick to shed tears, rarely laughed, and often prayed and prostrated to Allah throughout the night.

• He was known for his frequent prostrations and deep faith, reflecting on the fate of Muslims and ways to guide them.

• One of his key traits was his love for silence. He avoided public remembrance or actions that might be misinterpreted by others.

His Miracles and Extraordinary Events

  • Imam Al-Kadhim was known for several miracles, such as foretelling future events and having his wishes fulfilled immediately upon praying.
  • One of the most famous miracles was when he predicted a man’s death three days before it happened.
  • Another famous event occurred when Imam Al-Kadhim prayed for something, and his wishes were granted instantly by Allah.
  • He had the power to control his surroundings in a miraculous manner, such as finding water in unexpected places.

His Relationship with the Kings

• Imam Al-Kadhim (peace be upon him) lived during a time filled with political turmoil. He witnessed several rulers such as Al-Mansur, Al-Mahdi, Musa Al-Hadi, and Harun Al-Rashid.

• He was imprisoned multiple times for his principled stands but always overcame crises through his faith and Allah’s guidance.

His Companions and Students

• Imam Al-Kadhim (peace be upon him) was known for his close relationship with many scholars and thinkers of his time.

• Some of his famous companions were Yunus bin Abdul Rahman, Safwan bin Yahya, Abdullah bin Mugheera, Hassan bin Mahboub Al-Sarad, and Ahmad bin Muhammad bin Abi Nasr.

• He had many loyal students who took from his knowledge and his views on various religious topics.

His Departure to Allah

• Imam Musa Al-Kadhim (peace be upon him) passed away in 183 AH, and it is said that he was poisoned.

• He was buried in Baghdad, and his shrine is considered a sacred place visited by many lovers and followers.

• His death left a great void in the Islamic community, but he left behind a legacy of knowledge and faith.