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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Al-Wahid al-Behbahani, Man of Intellect Chapter 5 Mirza Shams al-Din Al-Sayyid Mahdi al-Tabataba’i al-Brujerdi, Mirza Muhammad al-Majlisi al-Shahristani, and al-Sayyid ‘Ali al-Tabataba’i, with other disciples were sitting in the house of al-’Ustadh awaiting his arrival, whereat Sayyid Mahdi said: “Do you know what for al-’Ustadh has asked us to come here?

As Muhammad Mahdi intended to comment on the question, al-Sayyid Muhammad Baqir arrived, so all the disciples stood up to welcome him.

He said: “Salam ‘Alaykan (peace be upon you).” “And peace and Allah’s mercy be upon you.” “My dear sons, I summoned you to tell you that I have become an aged old man, unable to give lectures, or undertaking much reading, so I intend to commit to you some affairs for relieving me of some of my burdens.” “Does that mean you are going to suspend your lessons?” “Nearly ...

I will, everyday, read one line from Sharh al-Lum’ah for bless-seeking only.” “Only Sharh al-Lum’ah?” “Yes, and O Sayyid Mahdi, you have to go to Najaf for teaching there, while Mirza Muhammad Mahdi stays here, with Sayyid ‘Ali and some other brothers for administering the affairs here. Sayyid Mahdi asked: “Where will the lessons of Sharh al-Lum’ah be held?” “In this house at the early morning. Now go and prepare yourselves for teaching.

After the disciples had left the house, Muhammad ‘Ali asked his father: “So you have stopped everything, aren’t you?” “No, my son, I am of the opinion that the youth should undertake teaching, so that I can devote all my time for conducting the Eawzah (theological school). Further, their academic level is encouraging, as some days ago I went through a book authored by al-Mirza al-Qummi named: Qawanin al-‘usul, that deserved my admiration.

Also, never forget Sayyid Mahdi[^1], who has become scholar (‘alim), and Sayyid ‘Ali, your brother-in-law, who has turned to be a great faqih (jurisprudent). You also are in need of a teacher, while I - as you see - have almost reached my end, and it is time to sit and review all my writings, as some of them need revision and modification, lest I should cause others to deviate.

“O father, you are still in the best condition, and it is early for such an utterance.” “Don’t be courteous, for every human being there is a destined hour (ajal), and I became an old man and a father of a 50-year old son.