It is necessary to know whether the hunted prey was within...

It is necessary to know whether the hunted prey was within the precincts of the holy Kaaba (Haram) or outside it, the hunter was cognizant or ignorant of the implications of his deed, whether he killed the prey deliberately or it was killed by mistake, whether he was a free man or a slave, major or minor, he did it for the first time or had also done it in the past, whether the prey was a bird or other animal, whether it was small or big, whether the offender was insistent on what he had done or was repentant for it, whether he did the hunting in the night or clandestinely or in the daylight and publicly, the sacred garment worn by him was for Umrah (unscheduled pilgrimage) or for Haj?

As long as the various aspects of the question are not explained no definite answer to it can be given.’ In spite of all the deficiencies that Yahya might have had, he was still somewhat conversant with the various points of Islamic jurisprudence. The Imam’s (AS) impressive ramification of the question raised by him convinced him that it would not be easy for him to face him. The signs of despair were writ so large on his face that the audience could not help noticing them.

He was now completely worried and did not utter a word in reply. Mamum, realizing Yahya’s condition, thought that it was I of no use to talk to him and, therefore, he himself requested the p Imam (AS) to explain the edicts of Shariat in respect of all the aspects of the matter described by him for the benefit of all of them. The Imam (AS) accordingly described in detail the various edicts with reference to the different aspects of the case.

Dumbfounded Yahya just continued to gaze at the Imam (AS) in bewilderment. Mamun also was bent upon carrying the whole affair to its utmost extent. Therefore, he requested the Imam to put some question to Yahya also, as he might consider proper. By way of courtesy, the Imam (AS) asked Yahva if he could put some questions to him as well. Yahya was no longer under any delusion with regard to himself. He had fully realized his own position with respect to that of the Imam (AS).

Consequently, now his mode of addressing the Imam (AS) had altogether changed. He said: “Your venerable self may ask as you may deem proper I shall try to reply if I can, or else I shall find it out from you own self.” The Imam (AS) accordingly put a question to him in reply to which Yahya openly admitted his inability and helplessness. Thereupon the Imam explained the question himself.