he claims to be the son of Muhammad al-’Akmal and of having...

he claims to be the son of Muhammad al-’Akmal and of having uterine kinship to the teacher.” “If he really be the son of Muhammad al-’Akmal, it is self- evident then to be so; since Muhammad al-’Akmal’s wife belongs to the teacher’s family, and both being the grandsons of al-Mulla Walih al-Mazandarani - the son-in-law of al- ‘Allamah al-Majlisi.

Or rather the teacher (ustadh) himself being the nephew of al-Sayyid Muhammad Baqir al-Majlisi, so he is the grandson of al-Majlisi the first.” “Surprising!” Al-Shaykh Mahdi seemed as intending to say something of importance, but the mosque attendant’s voice was raised announcing: “O gentlemen! The teacher is sick today.” A mumbling prevailed amongst the knowledge-seekers, who then embarked on departing the mosque in ones and groups.

Al-Shaykh Mahdi resumed his speech: “This guy then is affiliated to an inveterate family?” “Yes, on maternal side. And on paternal side he belongs to al-Shaykh al-Mufid. Now let’s go toward him, he may have some news about my family. As you know, I am so worried since the Afghans’ onslaught, not knowing what happened to them. This guy may deliver me of my anxieties.” Then the two men sat after saluting Muhammad Baqir who was busy collecting his books and note-books.

Al-Shaykh Mahdi said to him: “Welcome... I heard that you have come recently from Isfahan.” “Yes, before about three months.” “Were you present during the tumult of the Afghans?” “Yes.” “My family members are living behind the main mosque, I am worried about them, do you have any news about them?” “I was not present there, but some friends have informed me that all that locality remained far from any aggression.” “I praise Allah, I feel at ease now.” The Good Tidings The Sun of Friday was gradually approaching the meridian...

within two years after Muhammad Baqir’s coming to Najaf, and he is still cutting the distance between the haram (shrine) and the (theological) school, so quietly. The peddlers’ voices were raised loudly, while advertising for their simple goods, offered for sale on the pavements. The caravansary, close to the shrine, was so crowded with awaiting travellers.

As Muhammad Baqir was gazing at the caravansary, which seemed as old remains amidst a town looking like ruins left behind from the old times, he whispered: “The caravansary has become only ruins... the schools are improper...