Love and Hate in Chronicle and Hadiths of Imam Al-Ridha (Peace Be Upon Him)

Abstract

Love and hate, or al-Walayah (love and loyalty) and al-Bara’ah (disavowal), are fundamental pillars of Islam, especially in Shia thought. Reports and narrations in authentic Shia sources indicate that Imam al-Ridha (peace be upon him), like his righteous forefathers, emphasized the issue of love and hate, both in his words and deeds, albeit through various methods. Tawalli (love and loyalty) towards the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them), especially tabarri (disavowal) towards their enemies, has always been a subject of inquiry within Shia society. Imam al-Ridha (peace be upon him) cautioned against extremism in this area with his fundamental principles. Despite accepting the crown-princeship from al-Ma’mun, the Imam himself (peace be upon him) was disavowed of the government at that time. A historical and analytical study of the narrations and the biography of the Imam (peace be upon him) helps us to clarify the Imam’s thoughts and stances on love and hate and provide a clearer explanation of this matter.