On the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of the fifth Imam, Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS), the Leader of the Shia community in Pakistan, Allama Syed Sajid Ali Naqvi, issued a special message highlighting that the systematic and specialized framework for the recognition and propagation of Islam based on knowledge, established by Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS), represents a unique milestone in Islamic history.
He stated that the Imam (AS) not only trained hundreds of students and scholars, but also laid the foundations of an intellectual tradition that shaped the academic direction of the centuries to come. According to Allama Sajid Naqvi, Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS) was such an eminent personality that even leading scholars of other religions and schools of thought of his time were compelled to acknowledge:
“Whatever Muhammad al-Baqir (AS) teaches is true and correct.”
This acknowledgment reflects not merely personal greatness, but clear evidence of intellectual supremacy and scholarly truth.
He further noted that the advice and guidance given by Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS) to his son, Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq (AS), constitute a priceless treasure in Islamic history. On one occasion, the Imam (AS) said:
“O Ja‘far! The Creator of the universe has chosen us, the Ahl al-Bayt (AS), for knowledge. This knowledge is the legacy of our family, and it is our responsibility to convey it to humanity as a trust, so that people may understand the purpose of their creation.”
The Leader of the Shia community in Pakistan emphasized that the continuous and tireless struggle of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS) will remain a lasting source of guidance and growth for humanity. He explained that the lives of the Imams of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) are not limited to matters of the Hereafter alone, but also encourage the management of worldly affairs in accordance with the pleasure of Allah.
Addressing a common misconception, he pointed out that some people consider the pursuit of livelihood as a sign of distance from religion, whereas the life of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS) offers clear examples of lawful earning. He cited the narration of Muhammad ibn Munkadir, who reported seeing the Imam (AS) once working hard alongside two servants. When he expressed surprise, the Imam (AS) replied:
“If death were to overtake me in this state, it would overtake me while I am in obedience to Allah, for I am working to protect myself and my family from being dependent on others.”
(Usul al-Kafi, Vol. 5, p. 73)
Allama Sajid Naqvi stated that while the lofty objectives of the Imams of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) were unified and consistent, the methods adopted to achieve them varied according to the demands of each era. Some Imams pursued the path of peace, others rose in resistance, some awakened society through supplication and tears, whereas Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS) assumed the seat of knowledge, unlocking the sciences and earning for himself the everlasting title of “Baqir al-‘Ulum” (the one who opens the depths of knowledge).
He further highlighted that Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS) holds the unique distinction of being an Imam from both noble lineages: his father was an Imam, his grandfather was an Imam, his uncle was an Imam, and his son was an Imam. Moreover, he was an eyewitness to the tragedy of Karbala, which further refined and deepened his intellectual insight.
Citing a Prophetic tradition, Allama Sajid Naqvi recalled that the Holy Prophet (PBUH) said to his companion Jabir ibn Abdullah al-Ansari (RA):
“You will meet my fifth successor; his name will be my name. He will split open knowledge; convey my greetings to him.”
He concluded by stating that Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS), through his ethics, conduct, and unwavering commitment to principles, practically proved himself to be the true heir of the Messenger of Allah (PBUH). His persistent struggle against deviant groups, steadfast stance on principles, and fearless proclamation of the truth, regardless of hardships, stand out as defining features of his Imamate.
