Imam Reza’s Debates with Followers of Different Faiths and Denominations

IQNA – Imam Reza (AS) held debates with scholars and prominent figures of Islamic schools of thought as well as other religions on different themes and was the winner in all debates.

Abu al-Hassan Ali ibn Musa ibn Jafar, known as Imam Reza (AS) and Alim of Al-e Muhammad (PBUH) is the eighth Shia Imam who was born in 148 Hijri (765 AD) in Medina and was martyred at the order of Abbasid Caliph Ma’mun in 203 Hijri (818 AD). 

Imam Reza (AS) was the leading figure in worshipping God, piety, humbleness, generosity, and fortitude.

Fiqhi (jurisprudential) debates had been prevalent before Imam Reza (AS) but during his time, ideological discussions became very common. Many sessions of debates were held in which Imam Reza (AS) talked with scholars of Islamic denominations and other religions about different subjects.

For political purposes, Ma’mun sought to see the defeat of Imam Reza (AS) in at least one of the debates, but he didn't see it because Imam Reza (AS) was the winner in all sessions on all subjects.

The debates revealed the depth of Imam Reza’s (AS) knowledge of Islam and other faiths and his defense of the truth of Islam. He defended Islam’s truthfulness and answered questions and doubts, using rational arguments and Hadiths.

By explaining the true teachings of Islam, he showed the real image of the religion to the world and prevented incorrect and extremist views from spreading.

The main issues discussed in the debates included Tawheed (monotheism), prophethood of divine messengers, especially the last messenger of God (PBUH), miracles of prophets, status of Ahl-ul-Bayt (AS) in Islam, and interpretation of the Quran.

By interpreting the Quran, Imam Reza (AS) answered many questions and doubts and explained the exact meaning of the verses.

Among the famous debates of Imam Reza (AS) is the one he had with renowned Christian scholar Jathliq, who failed to answer the questions raised by Imam (AS). Another one was Raas al-Jalut, a Jewish leader, who acknowledged the truthfulness of Islam and prophethood of the last messenger of God (PBUH) during his debate with Imam Reza (AS).

Also, Herbez, a Zoroastrian scholar, acknowledged weaknesses in Zoroastrian beliefs during his debate with Imam Reza (AS).

The debates of Imam Reza (AS) had significant outcomes as they led to the spread of Islam and attracted many to the religion. They also introduced the real Islam to the world and prevented the spread of false and extremist understandings of the religion. The debates also enhanced the status of Ahl-ul-Bayt (AS) in Islamic society, helping many people to learn about their sublime status and knowledge.