Characteristics of The Shia

Lately seeing different things i had been contemplating writing on the characteristics of Shia as people these days find it so easy to label everyone a shia. A movie was released in Pakistan where some dancing girls were labeled as being a shia. Does anyone even realize what these 4 words entail?! Today is 19th Ramdhan and i think no day could be better than today to state what Imam Ali(a.s) expected from his followers? Just read on and then determine whether its so easy to call ourselves a shia?


Being a Shia is a concept so comprehensive that it encompasses many responsibilities which have been thoroughly explained by the Infalliables (as), under the banner of “Sifatush Shia” - the characteristics of the Shia.

“O' Muyassir!  Should I not describe to you who our Shia (true followers) are?”  Muyassir replied, “But of course, may I be sacrificed for you (O' Imam).”  The Imam continued: “Unquestionably they (our Shia) are like a fortified stronghold; their chests (hearts) are places that preserve the trusts (given to them such as secrets and private information) and are those who have a firm, dignified intelligence; they do not spread rumors that they are told (by others) and are not strict, severe people; nor are they people who show off. During the night time, they are as monks (they stay up in the night, busy in prayer and the worship of Allah) while during the daytime, they are as lions (active, energetic, and involved in the activities of the world and their community).”

From the characteristics that have been mentioned in the tradition under discussion in relation to the Shia is that they do not get angry. Rather they are people who are full of love and possess the traits of elegance and grace; they have the soul and spirit (of action and speech) of 'Ali b. Abi Talib (as) within themselves. They have the spirit of Imam Ja'far b. Muhammad as-Sadiq (as) and the rest of the Infallible Leaders of true guidance within themselves and thus, they even show love and kindness to their enemies!

ref:http://www.al-islam.org/ethical-discourses-vol1/3.htm

Imam Ja'far b. Muhammad as-Sadiq (as) has said, “Test our Shia during the times of the (five daily) Salat - how do they protect them (the Salat) and (also test our Shia) in relation to our (the Ahlul Bait's) secrets - how do they protect them in relation to our enemies; and (also test our Shia) in relation to their money and wealth - how do they spend it among their fellow brothers.”
Salman b. Mahran said, “I entered into the presence of as-Sadiq (as) while there were a group of people from among the Shia in his company and he said the following to them, 'O' assembly of Shia!  Be a beauty for us (the Ahlul Bait) and do not be a source of embarrassment for us. Speak to the people in good ways and protect your tongues. Save your tongues from speaking things that do not need to be said, and which are detested.”

ref:http://www.al-islam.org/ethical-discourses-vol1/5.htm


Ask yourself this: how many of these characteristics are present in us? Does only saying Ali(a.s) Ali(a.s) make us a shia? Do we not have to translate that love into action? Would Imam Ali(a.s) only want us to say his naras and when it comes time for action use foul language, backbite, gossip, not pray? do you think that would make him happy? His enemies made him sad, and now you with your actions are doing the same? Would you want Imam(a.s) to be sad because of you? Think about this the next time you start sinning!