Al-Maqdis al-Ardabili, is one of the most notable Shia scholars from the Safavid era, being praised by many other scholars throughout history. His title al Maqdis, or saint, refers to his well-know piety. He was also the maintainer of the Najaf seminary and direct teacher of Mirza Muhammad Al Astarabadi, the founder of the Akhbari school.
In one of his famous works he outlines what defined a Shia in his era, giving us an interesting glimpse into the well known practices of the Shia at the time.
Al Ardabili, may God have mercy on him, said in his book “The Shia Garden”:
The sign of the Shiites is that he insults Abu Bakr and Uthman, but also insults all those who violate the household, peace be upon them, and disavows them ...
[Hadiqah Al Shia 771]
Interestingly he uses the word ‘sabb’ meaning to insult and abuse, not just simply cursing!
(Pictured above is a painted portrait of Al Ardabli)
Another major scholar of note during the time was Al Muhaqqiq Al Karaki (Al Thani). Many later scholars commended his immense jurisprudential knowledge and piety. He was the teacher of scholars such as Ni’matullah Al Jazairi. He also mentioned, that not only is it permissible to curse the two caliphs, but rather it is mustahabb, desirable, and in addition defamation (ta’n), similar to sabb, is also permitted against them!
Sourced from: “The Ulama of Jabal ‘Amil in Safavid Iran, 1501–1736: marginality, migration and social change - Rula Jurdi Abisaab”
Footnotes:
70. Al-Muhaqqiq al-Thani, "Nafahat al-lahut fi la'n al-jibt wa'1-taghut," in 'A. Anvar, Fihrist-i nusakh-i khatti-yi kitdbkhdna-yi milll, collection 1703 (Tehran, 1344-58 Sh./1965-79), 5:8. This treatise was completed in 917/1511 in Mashhad. It was also published at least twice, but I have relied here on the original manuscript.
71. Ibid.
Suffice to say in the opinion of major scholars of the period, cursing of the caliphs was permitted, and insulting/defamation of the characters was also encouraged!
Post a Comment