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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books A Short Biography of Imam Jaffer As-sadiq(a.s) Chapter 5 : Imam Jaffer Bin Muhammad Al-sadiq (a.s.) Character and Personality INTRODUCTION: For reasons that have already been outlined in the preceding chapters, like his father, Imam Sadiq (A.S.) had an opportunity of serving humanly in general and Muslims in particular for a long time without restrictions.

Consequently, his great merits as a teacher, scholar and genius came to be appreciated wide and apart throughout the known world of the times in which he lived. Accompanied with his versatile knowledge in humanities, physical and religious sciences, was his impeccable character. His personality was a fine mixture of piety, generosity steadfastness, courage and above all, sensitivity towards the needs and expectations of his fellow humans.

Whoever came in contact with him was left with awe for him. His charisma, care for others and concern to improve the life of the creatures of Allah was such that he impacted the lives of many. This can be seen by the tributes that Muslim scholars of all denomination in different ages came to make for him.

Shahrastani, the famous Sunni writer, praised Imam Sadiq (A.S.) in these words: “His knowledge was great in religion and culture; he was fully informed in philosophy; he attained great piety in the world' and he abstained entirely form lusts. He lived in Medina long enough to greatly profit the sect that followed him, and to give his friends the advantage of the hidden sciences.

For he who is drowned in the sea of knowledge does not covet anything...," Ibne Hajar, the author of SAWAEQA AL MUHRIKA complements Imam Sadiq (A.S) saying that he was the best person of his times and for that he was his father's successor. Ibn Khalkan praised the Imam (A.S), saying his greatness and his accomplishments deserve description. Imam Fakhruddin Radhi (In his TafsirKabir] and Shah Abdul Aziz Dehlavi (in his Tohfa Ithenasherid) consider Imam Sadiq as "MASOOM: (the infallible).

A brief analysis of the character traits of the Imam (A.S) will give us an indication as to why scholars of Islam complemented him in the most praiseworthy terms. Piety: He spent his days fasting and his nights in prayers and recommended his followers to engage in such acts of piety.