Birth Anniversary of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (p), 1447 A.H.

The 1st of Rajab, 1447 A.H. marks the birth anniversary of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (p)

Beyond the Name

In a world where identity is often reduced to labels, affiliations, or appearances, Imam al-Baqir (p) gives us a reminder that being among the true followers of the Ahl al-Bayt (p) is not a title we claim, but it is a character we live.

He says, “By God, those who truly follow our Shia are only those who fear God and obey Him. They are known only for their humility, reverence, maintaining trust, frequent remembrance of God, fasting, prayers, kindness to parents, looking after neighbors, especially the poor, the needy, the indebted, and orphans, speaking the truth, reciting the Quran, refraining their tongues from harming others, except for good. They are trustworthy custodians of their tribes’ affairs” [Al-Ameen, Aʿyan al-Shia, Vol. 1, p. 657]

In this powerful narration, Imam al-Baqir (p) outlines a living, breathing model of faith—one that moves beyond identity into action, sincerity, and service.

1. The Inner Qualities of a True Believer

Imam al-Baqir (p) begins with the roots of genuine faith: fear of God, obedience, humility, reverence, and trustworthiness.

True followers are recognized not by what they claim, but by:

• Humility in their conduct
• Reverence in their hearts
• Reliability in fulfilling trust
• Frequent remembrance of God in all states
• Commitment to worship through fasting, prayers, and continuous engagement with the Qur’an

These qualities reflect an internal state aligned with God before anything external.

2. The Outward Responsibilities We Owe to Others

Imam al-Baqir (p) then turns our attention to how faith must manifest in our relationships:

• Honoring and supporting parents
• Caring for neighbors, especially the vulnerable
• Serving the poor, the needy, the indebted, and orphans
• Speaking truth, even when difficult
• Guarding the tongue, causing no harm except through goodness

These actions form the social backbone of true faith. A believer is someone whose presence lifts others, whose honesty encourages trust, and whose kindness protects the weak.

The Imam concludes by describing them as “trustworthy custodians of their tribes’ affairs.” They are the ones people depend on.

3. A Call to Self-Reflection

This hadith is not meant to exclude; it is meant to inspire.
It gently asks each of us:

• Do our actions reflect the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (p)?
• Do others feel safe, supported, and respected around us?
• Is our faith visible not only in worship, but in character?

To be Shia is to embody these virtues, not merely pronounce them.

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For more information on Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (p), click here.
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