Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.)
Baqir al-Ulum
The fifth Imam, known as the "Splitter of Knowledge," who established a vast Islamic university in Medina.
- Born
- 1 Rajab 57 AH (Medina)
- Died
- 7 Dhu al-Hijjah 114 AH
- Cause of death
- Poisoned by Hisham ibn Abd al-Malik
Early Life
Imam al-Baqir (a.s.) was about four years old during the tragedy of Karbala, witnessing the horrific events firsthand. He was the first Imam whose lineage traced back to both Imam Hasan and Imam Husayn (a.s.), as his mother was the daughter of Imam Hasan.
Baqir al-Ulum
His title Baqir al-Ulum was given to him by the Prophet (PBUH) through Jabir ibn Abdullah al-Ansari, meaning the one who splits open knowledge. As the Umayyad dynasty began to weaken, the Imam seized the opportunity to spread genuine Islamic teachings, founding a vast theological school in Medina.
Legacy
He laid the foundation for the scientific and jurisprudential renaissance of the Ahl al-Bayt. Thousands of hadiths on jurisprudence, theology, history, and exegesis of the Quran were narrated by him.