Greetings! Since we, the Shia, are referred to as Ja'fari, Imam Al-Sadiq is our primary reference in religious matters. My question is: where can I find the hadiths of Imam Al-Sadiq and jurisprudence to support some of the differences with our Sunni brothers, such as ablution, prayer, and leadership?
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1 Answer
Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you.
Firstly, it is true that we are called Ja'fari in reference to our master and leader, the sixth Imam of guidance, Ja'far ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq (AS). However, we believe that the Prophet (PBUH) and all the infallibles after him, starting with our master Ali (AS) and ending with Al-Mahdi (AJ), their words, actions, and approvals are authoritative for us, as established in the principles of jurisprudence. This means they are sources of our religious legislation, and we rely on them for our rulings.
The opportunity to convey the rulings and clarify the principles of Islam was more available to Imam Al-Sadiq (AS) due to the preoccupation of the rulers with governance. His era was a transitional phase from Umayyad rule to Abbasid rule, during which knowledge spread, and many jurisprudential schools and scientific propositions emerged.
Even the general public attended his gatherings and benefited from his knowledge.
If you wish to learn about the rulings in question, you should refer to the books that discuss the contentious issues between the Imami Shia and other Islamic sects.
These are known as books of disagreement or comparative jurisprudence. One of the most significant and oldest works we have on this topic is the 'Book of Disagreement in Rulings' or 'Kitab Al-Khilaf,' authored by Sheikh Al-Tusi, the leader of our sect. It is an important book for Shia jurists regarding contentious issues and comparative jurisprudence. The book was written at the request of some believers who asked the Sheikh to compile a work that clarifies and critiques the jurisprudential opinions of various Islamic sects and presents the Imami perspective on them.
He stated, may Allah have mercy on him:
The brothers in faith requested that I address the issues of disagreement between us and those who oppose us from all jurists, both past and present, specifying the views of each opponent and clarifying the correct stance and what should be believed, and that I support each issue with evidence to argue against those who oppose us, from the apparent Quran or established Sunnah, and to mention a narration from the Prophet and the Imams that the opponent must adhere to and submit to.
Al-Tusi, Al-Khilaf, Vol. 1, p. 45
All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds.
And blessings and peace be upon Muhammad and his pure family.