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The 14 Masoomen

Explore the lives, teachings, and legacies of the fourteen infallibles in Shia Islam

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Imam Musa al-Kadhim (AS)

al-Kadhim (The Restrained/One Who Suppresses Anger)

Birth
745 CE (Abwa, between Mecca and Medina)
Death/Martyrdom
799 CE (Baghdad)
Burial Place
Kadhimiya Shrine, Baghdad, Iraq

Biography

Imam Musa al-Kadhim was the son of Imam Ja'far al-Sadiq and the seventh Imam. He lived during the early Abbasid period, facing increased persecution and surveillance. Despite these challenges, he continued to guide the community and train scholars. He was known for his exceptional patience, forbearance, and ability to control his anger in the face of oppression, earning him the title 'al-Kadhim.' He spent many years imprisoned by the Abbasid caliphs Harun al-Rashid and his predecessors, yet continued to guide his followers through letters and limited meetings.

Imam Musa al-Kadhim (AS) Shrine

Shrine of Imam Musa al-Kadhim (AS)

The Kadhimiya Shrine in Baghdad, Iraq houses the tombs of Imam Musa al-Kadhim and his grandson Imam Muhammad al-Jawad. The shrine is characterized by its twin golden domes and four minarets, and is an important pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims.

Kadhimiya Shrine, Baghdad, Iraq
Silence is a form of wisdom, but few practice it.
— Imam Musa al-Kadhim (AS)

Teachings & Legacy

Imam Musa al-Kadhim is known for his patience and ability to control anger in the face of oppression. Despite spending many years in prison, he continued to guide his followers and train scholars. His teachings emphasize ethical conduct and spiritual discipline.

About the 14 Masoomen

Understanding the significance of the fourteen infallibles in Shia Islam

Who are the 14 Masoomen?

In Shia Islam, the 14 Infallibles (Arabic: Chahārdah Maʿsūmīn) are the Prophet Muhammad, his daughter Fatima al-Zahra, and the Twelve Imams. They are considered to be divinely appointed guides who are free from sin and error.

These revered figures are central to Shia theology and spirituality, representing the unbroken chain of divine guidance and leadership after the Prophet Muhammad.

The concept of infallibility (ismah) in Shia Islam means that these 14 individuals are believed to be protected by God from committing sins or errors in matters of religious guidance.

Imam Ali Shrine
Imam Hussein Shrine
Imam Ridha Shrine

Further Resources

Explore these classical texts to deepen your understanding of the 14 Masoomen

Nahj al-Balagha

A collection of sermons, letters, and sayings attributed to Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, compiled by al-Sharif al-Radi in the 10th century CE.

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Al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya

A collection of supplications attributed to Imam Ali ibn Hussein (Zayn al-Abidin), known as "The Psalms of Islam."

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Al-Kafi

One of the most important Shia hadith collections, compiled by Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni in the 10th century CE.

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