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==After the Prophet (s)==
==After the Prophet (s)==
He witnessed the events and incidents of the era of the first three caliphs. Some reports mention his and his brother [[Imam al-Husayn]]'s presence in certain conquests, such as in North Africa and Tabaristan,<ref>al-Kāmil fī al-Tārīkh, vol. 3, p. 6.</ref> although historical evidence indicates that he did not participate in these campaigns.<ref>See: al-Ḥayāt al-siyāsiyyah li-l-Imām al-Ḥasan, pp. 114–130.</ref> During the siege of [['Uthman]], he used to visit 'Uthman's house at his father's request.<ref>Murūj al-dhahab, vol. 2, p. 344; al-Imāmah wa al-siyāsah, vol. 1, p. 44; al-Ṭabarī, vol. 4, pp. 388–389.</ref> Another significant event of this period was when Imam al-Hasan (a), alongside his father, escorted [[Abu Dharr]] before his exile.<ref>Ansāb al-ashrāf, vol. 5, p. 543; al-Yaʿqūbī, vol. 2, p. 172.</ref>


He witnessed the events of the rule of the first three caliphates. Some reports mention his and his brother Imam al-Husayn's (a) participation in conquests such as North Africa and Tabaristan,<ref>al-Kamil fi al-Tarikh, vol. 3, p. 6.</ref> though historical evidence indicates otherwise.<ref>Cf. al-Hayat al-Siyasiyya li-l-Imam al-Hasan, pp. 114–130.</ref> During the siege of 'Uthman, by his father's instruction, al-Hasan (a) maintained contact with him.<ref>Muruj al-Dhahab, vol. 2, p. 344; al-Imama wa-l-Siyasa, vol. 1, p. 44; Tarikh al-Tabari, vol. 4, pp. 388–389.</ref> Another event was his escorting of Abu Dharr al-Ghifari with his father at the time of Abu Dharr's exile.<ref>Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 5, p. 543; Tarikh al-Ya'qubi, vol. 2, p. 172.</ref>
===During the Caliphate of Imam 'Ali (a)===
Imam al-Hasan (a) spent thirty years of his life alongside his father [[Imam 'Ali (a)]]. On the eve of the [[Battle of Jamal]] he was dispatched by Imam 'Ali (a) to [[Kufa]] as his representative to mobilize the people.<ref> al-Jamal, pp. 132, 175.</ref> He also took part in the [[Battle of Siffin]]. In the [[Battle against the Khawarij]], in addition to delivering sermons in support of his father, he was present on the battlefield.<ref> Hayat al-Imam al-Hasan ibn 'Ali, vol. 1, pp. 481–486.</ref>


==During the Caliphate of Imam 'Ali (a)==
Imam 'Ali (a) had numerous endowments in Medina and its surroundings, which after his martyrdom were administered first by Imam al-Hasan (a), then by his brother al-Husayn (a).<ref> Tahdhib al-Ahkam, vol. 9, pp. 145–148.</ref> Administration of these endowments was later inherited by the [[Banu al-Hasan]] and [[Banu al-Husayn]].<ref> Ilal al-Sharai, vol. 1, p. 230; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 21; Kashf al-Ghummah, vol. 2, p. 199.</ref>


Al-Hasan (a) spent thirty years alongside his father 'Ali (a). On the eve of the [[Battle of Jamal]], he was dispatched by 'Ali (a) as his envoy to [[Kufa]] to mobilize the people.<ref>al-Jamal, pp. 132, 175.</ref> He also took part in the [[Battle of Siffin]], and during the [[Battle of Nahrawan|Battle against the Khawarij]], he delivered sermons in support of his father and was present on the battlefield.<ref>Hayat al-Imam al-Hasan b. 'Ali, vol. 1, pp. 481–486.</ref>
==Imamate and Caliphate of Imam al-Hasan (a)==
After being struck, [[Imam 'Ali (a)]] appointed his son al-Hasan (a) as imam,<ref> Kashf al-Ghummah, vol. 2, pp. 153–154; Musnad al-Imam al-Mujtaba, p. 36.</ref> and al-Hasan assumed leadership for approximately six months. The pledge of allegiance to Imam al-Hasan (a) occurred on the 21st of Ramadan, in the year 40/661, following the martyrdom of his father.<ref> al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 9. </ref>


'Ali (a) had established charitable endowments in and around Madina, of which al-Hasan (a) became the trustee after him, followed later by his brother Husayn (a).<ref>Tahdhib al-Ahkam, vol. 9, pp. 145–148.</ref> These endowments were then administered by Banu al-Hasan and Banu Husayn.<ref>'Ilal al-Sharaʾi', vol. 1, p. 230; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 21; Kashf al-Ghumma, vol. 2, p. 199.</ref>
[[Mu'awiya b. Abi Sufyan|Mu'awiya]], the governor of Syria who claimed the caliphate, upon hearing of the people’s pledge, openly declared rebellion and refused to acknowledge Imam al-Hasan as caliph.<ref> al-Yaqubi, vol. 2, p. 214; Sharh Nahj al-Balagha, vol. 16, p. 31.</ref> Imam al-Hasan (a)’s first action after taking charge was to organize an army to confront Mu'awiya.<ref> al-Mustadrak ala al-Sahihayn, vol. 3, pp. 174–176. </ref> In response, Mu'awiya marched with sixty thousand men against him.<ref> al-Futuh, vol. 4, p. 286; Maqatil al-Talibiyyin, pp. 34–35.</ref> He spread rumors claiming that Imam al-Hasan intended to make peace,<ref> al-Yaqubi, vol. 2, p. 214.</ref> while at the same time bribing some of al-Hasan’s commanders.<ref> Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 38.</ref> As a result of these rumors, al-Hasan’s camp was looted, and he was wounded in “Sabat.”<ref> Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 35; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 12.</ref>


Imamate and Caliphate of Imam al-Hasan (a)
In such circumstances he was compelled to make peace. When asked about the reason, Imam al-Hasan (a) explained that it was due to the people’s greater desire for peace, their aversion to war, and above all, the preservation of his Shi'a.<ref> Akhbar al-Tiwal, p. 220. </ref>


After being struck, 'Ali (a) appointed his son al-Hasan (a) as Imam,<ref>Kashf al-Ghumma, vol. 2, pp. 153–154; Musnad al-Imam al-Mujtaba (a), p. 36.</ref> and he assumed authority for about six months. The allegiance to him took place on the 21st of Ramadan, 40 AH, following his father's martyrdom.<ref>al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 9.</ref>
He handed the caliphate to Mu'awiya under conditions: that Mu'awiya would not appoint a successor,<ref> al-Istiab, vol. 1, pp. 385–387. </ref> that the next caliph would be chosen by a council of Muslims,<ref> al-Istiab, vol. 1, pp. 386–387. </ref> that Muslims and the Shi'a would remain safe, and that no plot would be hatched against the Ahl al-Bayt.<ref> al-Futuh, vol. 4, pp. 290–291.</ref>


Mu'awiya, the governor of Syria who claimed the caliphate, upon hearing of this allegiance, openly declared rebellion and refused to recognize al-Hasan (a).<ref>Tarikh al-Ya'qubi, vol. 2, p. 214; Sharh Nahj al-Balagha, Ibn Abi al-Hadid, vol. 16, p. 31.</ref> The first step of al-Hasan (a) was to mobilize an army against him.<ref>al-Mustadrak 'ala al-Sahihayn, vol. 3, pp. 174–176.</ref> Mu'awiya advanced with sixty thousand troops against al-Hasan (a).<ref>al-Futuh, vol. 4, p. 286; Maqatil al-Talibiyyin, pp. 34–35.</ref> He spread rumors that al-Hasan (a) intended peace,<ref>Tarikh al-Ya'qubi, vol. 2, p. 214.</ref> while at the same time bribing commanders in al-Hasan's army.<ref>Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 38.</ref> Amid these rumors, his camp was plundered and he was wounded at “Maẓlim Sabat.”<ref>Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 35; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 12.</ref> In such circumstances, he was compelled to conclude peace, explaining that the people's inclination to peace, their aversion to war, and especially the preservation of the Shi'a from slaughter, necessitated his decision.<ref>Akhbar al-Tiwal, p. 220.</ref>
==Virtues and Merits==
Imam al-Hasan (a) was regarded as the most devout, ascetic, and virtuous person of his time.<ref> al-Am'Ali, p. 244; Uddat al-Dai, p. 139.</ref> He became renowned for his generosity, patience, and forbearance. Because of this, he was called “Karim Ahl al-Bayt.” He is reported to have given away half of his wealth, and in some accounts even all of it, in charity two or three times.<ref> Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 9; al-Wafi bil-Wafayat, vol. 12, p. 68; Sharh al-Akhbar, vol. 3, p. 113; Manaqib Aal Abi Talib, vol. 3, p. 180. </ref>


He handed over the caliphate to Mu'awiya with conditions: that Mu'awiya would not appoint a successor,<ref>al-Isti'ab, vol. 1, pp. 385–387.</ref> that the next caliph would be chosen by the council of Muslims,<ref>al-Isti'ab, vol. 1, pp. 386–387.</ref> that the Muslims and Shi'a would be secure, and that no plot would be made against the Ahl al-Bayt.<ref>al-Futuh, vol. 4, pp. 290–291.</ref>
==Pilgrimage==
Both Sunni and Shi'a sources narrate that Imam al-Hasan (a) performed many pilgrimages to Mecca on foot.<ref> Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 9; al-Wafi bil-Wafayat, vol. 12, p. 67; Uddat al-Dai, p. 139. </ref> It is reported that he walked to hajj twenty-five times.<ref> Shadharat al-Dhahab, vol. 1, p. 242.</ref> He explained that walking expressed greater humility on the way to the House of God.<ref> al-Aimma al-Ithna Ashar, p. 64. </ref>


Virtues and Merits
==Wives==
The names of his wives as mentioned in historical sources include: Umm al-Haqq, daughter of Talha b. 'Ubayd Allah; Hafsa, daughter of Abd al-Rahman b. Abi Bakr; Hind, daughter of Suhayl b. 'Amr;<ref> Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, pp. 20–22.</ref> and Ja'da, daughter of al-Ash'ath b. Qays.<ref> Sulh al-Imam al-Hasan, p. 38. </ref> According to al-Shaykh al-Mufid,<ref> al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 20.</ref> Umm Bashir, daughter of 'Uqba b. 'Amr, and Khawla, daughter of Manzur al-Fazari, were also among his wives. Some early sources list his wives as numbering ten,<ref> al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, pp. 244–245. </ref> while others expand the figure to eleven.<ref> Sharh Nahj al-Balagha, vol. 16, p. 21.</ref> There are also exaggerated reports mentioning an unverified larger number of marriages.<ref> Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 25; Qut al-Qulub, vol. 2, p. 471. </ref>


Hasan (a) was considered the most devout, ascetic, and virtuous of his time.<ref>al-Amali, al-Saduq, p. 244; 'Uddat al-Da'i, p. 139.</ref> He was famous for his generosity, patience, and selflessness.<ref>Kashf al-Ghumma, vol. 2, pp. 180–182; Nuzhat al-Naẓir, pp. 148–150.</ref><ref>al-Kamil, al-Mubarrad, vol. 2, p. 462.</ref><ref>Cf. Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 43, pp. 344–355; Manaqib Āl Abi Talib, vol. 3, p. 188.</ref> Hence he became known as “Karim Ahl al-Bayt.” It is reported that two or three times he gave away half, or even all, of his wealth in charity.<ref>Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 9; al-Wafi bi-l-Wafayat, vol. 12, p. 68.</ref><ref>Sharh al-Akhbar, vol. 3, p. 113; Manaqib Āl Abi Talib, vol. 3, p. 180.</ref>
==Children==
Some sources record fifteen children for him,<ref> Tazkirat al-Khawas, p. 194; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 20. </ref> while others mention four sons and two daughters.<ref> al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, pp. 244–245. </ref> His lineage continued through his sons al-Hasan and Zayd. All of al-Hasan’s children stood alongside [[Imam al-Husayn (a)]] on the day of [[Ashura]].<ref> al-Majdi fi Ansab al-Talibiyyin, p. 19; Musnad al-Imam al-Shahid, vol. 2, p. 107.</ref>


Hajj
Later, the al-Hasanid branch of the [['Alids]] became among the chief rivals of the [[Abbasid dynasty]]. Notable figures such as Muhammad<ref> al-Tabari, vol. 7, p. 552.</ref> and Ibrahim,<ref> al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, pp. 439–441.</ref> sons of Abd Allah b. al-Hasan,<ref> al-Fakhri, p. 164.</ref> and al-Husayn b. 'Ali b. al-Hasan (known as the [[Martyr of Fakhkh]])<ref> al-Tabari, vol. 8, pp. 192–205.</ref> (d. 169/786), revolted against the Abbasid rule.


Both Shi'i and Sunni sources mention his frequent pilgrimages on foot.<ref>Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 9; al-Wafi bi-l-Wafayat, vol. 12, p. 67; 'Uddat al-Da'i, p. 139.</ref> He is said to have performed 25 pilgrimages in this way.<ref>Shadharat al-Dhahab, vol. 1, p. 242.</ref> When asked, he explained that he did so to express greater humility before God's House.<ref>al-Aʾimma al-Ithna 'Ashar, p. 64.</ref>
In the second half of the 4th/10th century, the [[Hasanid Sharifs]] succeeded in establishing an emirate in [[Mecca]], which lasted until the domination of the [[House of Saud]].


Wives of Imam al-Hasan (a)
==Martyrdom==
According to the most famous report, Imam al-Hasan (a) was poisoned and martyred on the 28th of Safar, in the year 50/670.<ref> Kashf al-Ghummah, vol. 2, p. 205; Translation of al-Tabaqat al-Kubra: al-Imam al-Hasan, p. 91.</ref> Other reports cite the years 47/667,<ref> al-Bad wa al-Tarikh, vol. 5, p. 74. </ref> or 49/669,<ref> al-Yaqubi, vol. 2, p. 225; Tarikh Madinat Dimashq, vol. 7, p. 122. </ref> or even the 7th of Safar.<ref> al-Durus al-Sharaiyya, vol. 2, p. 7. </ref> According to the well-known narrative, Ja'da, one of his wives, poisoned him at the instigation of Mu'awiya.<ref> al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya, vol. 8, p. 43; Ibn Khaldun, vol. 2, p. 649.</ref>


The names of his wives mentioned in historical sources include: Umm al-Haqq bt. Talha b. 'Ubayd Allah; Hafṣa bt. 'Abd al-Rahman b. Abi Bakr; Hind bt. Suhayl b. 'Amr<ref>Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, pp. 20–22.</ref>; and Ja'da bt. al-Ash'ath b. Qays.<ref>Sulh al-Imam al-Hasan (a), Āl Yasin, p. 38.</ref> Shaykh al-Mufid<ref>al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 20.</ref> also mentions Umm Bashir bt. 'Uqba b. 'Amr b. Tha'laba and Khawla bt. Manẓur al-Fazariyya. Some early sources list up to ten wives,<ref>al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, pp. 244–245.</ref> while others mention eleven.<ref>Sharh Nahj al-Balagha, Ibn Abi al-Hadid, vol. 16, p. 21.</ref> Exaggerated reports of numerous marriages exist, but many such names are untraceable in reliable sources.<ref>Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 25; Qut al-Qulub, vol. 2, p. 471.</ref>
==Tomb==
In accordance with his will (“Bury me beside my grandfather”), the Ahl al-Bayt attempted to bury him beside the grave of the Prophet (s). However, the [[Umayyads]], led by [[Marwan b. al-Hakam]], the governor of Medina,<ref> al-Wafi bil-Wafayat, vol. 12, pp. 68–69. </ref> together with some of the Prophet’s wives,<ref> Tazkirat al-Khawas, p. 193. </ref> prevented them. The [[Banu Hashim]] prepared to resist, but [[Imam al-Husayn (a)]], honoring his brother’s will, refrained. Thus, al-Hasan was buried in [[al-Baqi cemetery]].<ref> Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 44, p. 134.</ref>


Children of Imam al-Hasan (a)
Imam al-Hasan (a) was laid to rest in the al-Baqi cemetery, near his grandmother [[Fatimah bt. Asad]] and the Prophet’s uncle [['Abbas b. 'Abd al-MutTalib|'Abbas]]. Later, a dome was erected over their resting places along with those of [[Imam al-Sajjad (a)]] and [[Imam al-Baqir (a)]], described as the tallest structure in Medina.<ref> Ibn Jubayr, Rihlah, p. 155; Madinah Shinasi, p. 326; al-Iqd al-Thamin, vol. 3, p. 396.</ref> In 495/1101-02, [[Majd al-Mulk al-Baravistani]], vizier of the Seljuk ruler Barkiyaruq, sent an architect from Qom to build the dome over Imam al-Hasan’s shrine.<ref> al-Kamil fi al-Tarikh, vol. 10, p. 352.</ref> This dome was destroyed on the 8th of Shawwal, 1343/1925, by Saudi Wahhabi forces.<ref> Tarikh Haram Aimmat al-Baqi wa Athar Ukhra fi Madinah al-Munawwarah, p. 51.</ref>
 
He is said to have had fifteen children,<ref>Tadhkirat al-Khawaṣṣ, p. 194; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 20.</ref> though some report only four sons and two daughters.<ref>al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, pp. 244–245.</ref> His lineage continued through his sons al-Hasan and Zayd. All his children joined Imam Husayn (a) on the Day of 'Āshuraʾ.<ref>al-Majdi fi Ansab al-Talibiyyin, p. 19; Musnad al-Imam al-Shahid (a), vol. 2, p. 107.</ref>
 
The al-Hasanid branch of the 'Alids became major rivals of the 'Abbasid dynasty. Among them, Muhammad<ref>Tarikh al-Tabari, vol. 7, p. 552.</ref> and Ibrahim,<ref>al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, pp. 439–441.</ref> sons of 'Abd Allah b. al-Hasan,<ref>al-Fakhri, p. 164.</ref> as well as Husayn b. 'Ali b. al-Hasan (the “Martyr of Fakhkh,” 169 AH),<ref>Tarikh al-Tabari, vol. 8, pp. 192–205.</ref> rose against the 'Abbasids.
 
In the latter half of the 4th/10th century, the al-Hasanid Sharifs established an emirate in Mecca that lasted until the domination of the Āl Sa'ud over the Hijaz.
 
Martyrdom of Imam al-Hasan (a)
 
According to the most common report, al-Hasan (a) was poisoned and martyred on 28 Safar, 50 AH.<ref>Kashf al-Ghumma, vol. 2, p. 205; Tarjama al-Imam al-Hasan (a) min al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, p. 91.</ref> Other accounts give 47 AH<ref>al-Badʾ wa-l-Tarikh, vol. 5, p. 74.</ref> or 49 AH,<ref>Tarikh al-Ya'qubi, vol. 2, p. 225; Tarikh Madinat Dimashq, vol. 7, p. 122.</ref> and some mention 7 Safar.<ref>al-Durus al-Shar'iyya, vol. 2, p. 7.</ref> The prevalent tradition holds that his wife Ja'da, instigated by Mu'awiya, poisoned him.<ref>al-Bidaya wa-l-Nihaya, vol. 8, p. 43; Tarikh Ibn Khaldun, vol. 2, p. 649.</ref>
 
Shrine of Imam al-Hasan (a)
 
According to his will (udfinuni 'inda abi), his family intended to bury him near the grave of the Prophet (s), but the Banu Umayya under Marwan b. al-Hakam, the governor of Madina,<ref>al-Wafi bi-l-Wafayat, vol. 12, pp. 68–69.</ref> supported by some of the Prophet's wives,<ref>Tadhkirat al-Khawaṣṣ, p. 193.</ref> prevented this. The Banu Hashim prepared to confront them, but Imam Husayn (a), adhering to his brother's will, restrained them. Thus, al-Hasan (a) was buried in al-Baqi'.<ref>Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 44, p. 134.</ref>
 
He was laid to rest beside his grandmother Fatima bt. Asad and his uncle al-'Abbas b. 'Abd al-Muttalib. Later, a dome was erected over their graves as well as those of Imam 'Ali b. al-Husayn (a) and Imam al-Baqir (a), and it was described as the tallest structure in Madina.<ref>Rihlat Ibn Jubayr, p. 155; Madina-shinasi, p. 326.</ref><ref>al-'Iqd al-Thamin, vol. 3, p. 396.</ref> In 495 AH, Majd al-Mulk al-Burawastani, vizier of the Saljuq ruler Barkiyaruq, sent an architect and funds to build a dome and mausoleum over their graves, which was rebuilt by a group of Iranians in 1234 AH.<ref>Tuhfat al-Ahbab wa-Bulghat al-Tullab, pp. 271–272.</ref> The building was destroyed by the Wahhabis in 1221 AH,<ref>Wafayat al-A'yan, vol. 7, p. 27.</ref> then reconstructed by the Ottoman Sultan 'Abd al-Hamid II, only to be demolished again in 1344 AH by the Wahhabis.<ref>al-Tuhfa al-Latifa fi Tarikh al-Madina al-Sharifa, vol. 1, p. 46; Mawsu'at Mirʾat al-Haramayn, vol. 2, p. 426.</ref>

Revision as of 12:26, 21 September 2025

Imam al-Hasan al-Mujtaba (a) (Arabic: إمام الحسن المجتبی) was the son of Amir al-Muʾminin 'Ali b. Abi Talib (a), the second Imam of the Shi'a and the fifth caliph of the Muslims. He is described as the one who most resembled the Prophet (s), a devout worshipper and ascetic, and it is reported that several times in his life he gave away all or half of his wealth in charity. After the martyrdom of Imam 'Ali (a), he assumed the caliphate by the people's allegiance, but in 41/661, due to divisions in his army, he was compelled to accept peace with Mu'awiya b. Abi Sufyan, who claimed the caliphate and had advanced with a large army from Syria toward Iraq.

He is reported to have gone on hajj several times on foot. After his martyrdom, his body was buried in the cemetery of al-Baqi', beside Fatima bt. Asad. Later, Imam 'Ali b. al-Husayn (a) and Imam al-Baqir (a) were also buried there, and a magnificent dome was eventually built over their graves.

Birth and Childhood

Imam al-Hasan was born in the middle of the month of Ramadan[1] of 3/625[2] in Medina. Most sources describe him as the closest in appearance to the Prophet (s). According to a report, the Prophet (s) described al-Hasan (a) as the most similar to him in character, disposition, and physical appearance.[3] He lived seven years during the lifetime of the Prophet (s).[4] Among his epithets are Sibt al-Nabi, al-Sayyid, al-Zaki, al-Mujtaba, al-Taqi, al-Wali, and al-Tayyib.[5]

After the Prophet (s)

He witnessed the events and incidents of the era of the first three caliphs. Some reports mention his and his brother Imam al-Husayn's presence in certain conquests, such as in North Africa and Tabaristan,[6] although historical evidence indicates that he did not participate in these campaigns.[7] During the siege of 'Uthman, he used to visit 'Uthman's house at his father's request.[8] Another significant event of this period was when Imam al-Hasan (a), alongside his father, escorted Abu Dharr before his exile.[9]

During the Caliphate of Imam 'Ali (a)

Imam al-Hasan (a) spent thirty years of his life alongside his father Imam 'Ali (a). On the eve of the Battle of Jamal he was dispatched by Imam 'Ali (a) to Kufa as his representative to mobilize the people.[10] He also took part in the Battle of Siffin. In the Battle against the Khawarij, in addition to delivering sermons in support of his father, he was present on the battlefield.[11]

Imam 'Ali (a) had numerous endowments in Medina and its surroundings, which after his martyrdom were administered first by Imam al-Hasan (a), then by his brother al-Husayn (a).[12] Administration of these endowments was later inherited by the Banu al-Hasan and Banu al-Husayn.[13]

Imamate and Caliphate of Imam al-Hasan (a)

After being struck, Imam 'Ali (a) appointed his son al-Hasan (a) as imam,[14] and al-Hasan assumed leadership for approximately six months. The pledge of allegiance to Imam al-Hasan (a) occurred on the 21st of Ramadan, in the year 40/661, following the martyrdom of his father.[15]

Mu'awiya, the governor of Syria who claimed the caliphate, upon hearing of the people’s pledge, openly declared rebellion and refused to acknowledge Imam al-Hasan as caliph.[16] Imam al-Hasan (a)’s first action after taking charge was to organize an army to confront Mu'awiya.[17] In response, Mu'awiya marched with sixty thousand men against him.[18] He spread rumors claiming that Imam al-Hasan intended to make peace,[19] while at the same time bribing some of al-Hasan’s commanders.[20] As a result of these rumors, al-Hasan’s camp was looted, and he was wounded in “Sabat.”[21]

In such circumstances he was compelled to make peace. When asked about the reason, Imam al-Hasan (a) explained that it was due to the people’s greater desire for peace, their aversion to war, and above all, the preservation of his Shi'a.[22]

He handed the caliphate to Mu'awiya under conditions: that Mu'awiya would not appoint a successor,[23] that the next caliph would be chosen by a council of Muslims,[24] that Muslims and the Shi'a would remain safe, and that no plot would be hatched against the Ahl al-Bayt.[25]

Virtues and Merits

Imam al-Hasan (a) was regarded as the most devout, ascetic, and virtuous person of his time.[26] He became renowned for his generosity, patience, and forbearance. Because of this, he was called “Karim Ahl al-Bayt.” He is reported to have given away half of his wealth, and in some accounts even all of it, in charity two or three times.[27]

Pilgrimage

Both Sunni and Shi'a sources narrate that Imam al-Hasan (a) performed many pilgrimages to Mecca on foot.[28] It is reported that he walked to hajj twenty-five times.[29] He explained that walking expressed greater humility on the way to the House of God.[30]

Wives

The names of his wives as mentioned in historical sources include: Umm al-Haqq, daughter of Talha b. 'Ubayd Allah; Hafsa, daughter of Abd al-Rahman b. Abi Bakr; Hind, daughter of Suhayl b. 'Amr;[31] and Ja'da, daughter of al-Ash'ath b. Qays.[32] According to al-Shaykh al-Mufid,[33] Umm Bashir, daughter of 'Uqba b. 'Amr, and Khawla, daughter of Manzur al-Fazari, were also among his wives. Some early sources list his wives as numbering ten,[34] while others expand the figure to eleven.[35] There are also exaggerated reports mentioning an unverified larger number of marriages.[36]

Children

Some sources record fifteen children for him,[37] while others mention four sons and two daughters.[38] His lineage continued through his sons al-Hasan and Zayd. All of al-Hasan’s children stood alongside Imam al-Husayn (a) on the day of Ashura.[39]

Later, the al-Hasanid branch of the 'Alids became among the chief rivals of the Abbasid dynasty. Notable figures such as Muhammad[40] and Ibrahim,[41] sons of Abd Allah b. al-Hasan,[42] and al-Husayn b. 'Ali b. al-Hasan (known as the Martyr of Fakhkh)[43] (d. 169/786), revolted against the Abbasid rule.

In the second half of the 4th/10th century, the Hasanid Sharifs succeeded in establishing an emirate in Mecca, which lasted until the domination of the House of Saud.

Martyrdom

According to the most famous report, Imam al-Hasan (a) was poisoned and martyred on the 28th of Safar, in the year 50/670.[44] Other reports cite the years 47/667,[45] or 49/669,[46] or even the 7th of Safar.[47] According to the well-known narrative, Ja'da, one of his wives, poisoned him at the instigation of Mu'awiya.[48]

Tomb

In accordance with his will (“Bury me beside my grandfather”), the Ahl al-Bayt attempted to bury him beside the grave of the Prophet (s). However, the Umayyads, led by Marwan b. al-Hakam, the governor of Medina,[49] together with some of the Prophet’s wives,[50] prevented them. The Banu Hashim prepared to resist, but Imam al-Husayn (a), honoring his brother’s will, refrained. Thus, al-Hasan was buried in al-Baqi cemetery.[51]

Imam al-Hasan (a) was laid to rest in the al-Baqi cemetery, near his grandmother Fatimah bt. Asad and the Prophet’s uncle 'Abbas. Later, a dome was erected over their resting places along with those of Imam al-Sajjad (a) and Imam al-Baqir (a), described as the tallest structure in Medina.[52] In 495/1101-02, Majd al-Mulk al-Baravistani, vizier of the Seljuk ruler Barkiyaruq, sent an architect from Qom to build the dome over Imam al-Hasan’s shrine.[53] This dome was destroyed on the 8th of Shawwal, 1343/1925, by Saudi Wahhabi forces.[54]

  1. ↑ Tarikh Madinat Dimashq, vol. 13, p. 167; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 5.
  2. ↑ Tarjama al-Imam al-Hasan min al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, p. 98; Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 219; I'lam al-Wara, vol. 1, p. 402.
  3. ↑ al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, al-Khamisah, vol. 1, p. 245; al-Isti'ab, vol. 1, p. 384.
  4. ↑ Manaqib Āl Abi Talib, vol. 3, p. 175.
  5. ↑ Kashf al-Ghumma, vol. 2, p. 141; Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 43, p. 255.
  6. ↑ al-Kāmil fī al-Tārīkh, vol. 3, p. 6.
  7. ↑ See: al-Ḥayāt al-siyāsiyyah li-l-Imām al-Ḥasan, pp. 114–130.
  8. ↑ Murūj al-dhahab, vol. 2, p. 344; al-Imāmah wa al-siyāsah, vol. 1, p. 44; al-Ṭabarī, vol. 4, pp. 388–389.
  9. ↑ Ansāb al-ashrāf, vol. 5, p. 543; al-Yaʿqūbī, vol. 2, p. 172.
  10. ↑ al-Jamal, pp. 132, 175.
  11. ↑ Hayat al-Imam al-Hasan ibn 'Ali, vol. 1, pp. 481–486.
  12. ↑ Tahdhib al-Ahkam, vol. 9, pp. 145–148.
  13. ↑ Ilal al-Sharai, vol. 1, p. 230; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 21; Kashf al-Ghummah, vol. 2, p. 199.
  14. ↑ Kashf al-Ghummah, vol. 2, pp. 153–154; Musnad al-Imam al-Mujtaba, p. 36.
  15. ↑ al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 9.
  16. ↑ al-Yaqubi, vol. 2, p. 214; Sharh Nahj al-Balagha, vol. 16, p. 31.
  17. ↑ al-Mustadrak ala al-Sahihayn, vol. 3, pp. 174–176.
  18. ↑ al-Futuh, vol. 4, p. 286; Maqatil al-Talibiyyin, pp. 34–35.
  19. ↑ al-Yaqubi, vol. 2, p. 214.
  20. ↑ Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 38.
  21. ↑ Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 35; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 12.
  22. ↑ Akhbar al-Tiwal, p. 220.
  23. ↑ al-Istiab, vol. 1, pp. 385–387.
  24. ↑ al-Istiab, vol. 1, pp. 386–387.
  25. ↑ al-Futuh, vol. 4, pp. 290–291.
  26. ↑ al-Am'Ali, p. 244; Uddat al-Dai, p. 139.
  27. ↑ Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 9; al-Wafi bil-Wafayat, vol. 12, p. 68; Sharh al-Akhbar, vol. 3, p. 113; Manaqib Aal Abi Talib, vol. 3, p. 180.
  28. ↑ Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 9; al-Wafi bil-Wafayat, vol. 12, p. 67; Uddat al-Dai, p. 139.
  29. ↑ Shadharat al-Dhahab, vol. 1, p. 242.
  30. ↑ al-Aimma al-Ithna Ashar, p. 64.
  31. ↑ Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, pp. 20–22.
  32. ↑ Sulh al-Imam al-Hasan, p. 38.
  33. ↑ al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 20.
  34. ↑ al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, pp. 244–245.
  35. ↑ Sharh Nahj al-Balagha, vol. 16, p. 21.
  36. ↑ Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 3, p. 25; Qut al-Qulub, vol. 2, p. 471.
  37. ↑ Tazkirat al-Khawas, p. 194; al-Irshad, vol. 2, p. 20.
  38. ↑ al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, pp. 244–245.
  39. ↑ al-Majdi fi Ansab al-Talibiyyin, p. 19; Musnad al-Imam al-Shahid, vol. 2, p. 107.
  40. ↑ al-Tabari, vol. 7, p. 552.
  41. ↑ al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, pp. 439–441.
  42. ↑ al-Fakhri, p. 164.
  43. ↑ al-Tabari, vol. 8, pp. 192–205.
  44. ↑ Kashf al-Ghummah, vol. 2, p. 205; Translation of al-Tabaqat al-Kubra: al-Imam al-Hasan, p. 91.
  45. ↑ al-Bad wa al-Tarikh, vol. 5, p. 74.
  46. ↑ al-Yaqubi, vol. 2, p. 225; Tarikh Madinat Dimashq, vol. 7, p. 122.
  47. ↑ al-Durus al-Sharaiyya, vol. 2, p. 7.
  48. ↑ al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya, vol. 8, p. 43; Ibn Khaldun, vol. 2, p. 649.
  49. ↑ al-Wafi bil-Wafayat, vol. 12, pp. 68–69.
  50. ↑ Tazkirat al-Khawas, p. 193.
  51. ↑ Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 44, p. 134.
  52. ↑ Ibn Jubayr, Rihlah, p. 155; Madinah Shinasi, p. 326; al-Iqd al-Thamin, vol. 3, p. 396.
  53. ↑ al-Kamil fi al-Tarikh, vol. 10, p. 352.
  54. ↑ Tarikh Haram Aimmat al-Baqi wa Athar Ukhra fi Madinah al-Munawwarah, p. 51.
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