Does the Teaching of Imam Al-Baqir to Imam Al-Sadiq Contradict His Perfection?

Question

In the narration, Abu Abdullah (peace be upon him) said: 'I exerted myself in worship while I was young, and my father said to me: O my son, be cautious of what you are doing, for when Allah loves a servant, He is pleased with little.'

Answer 1

Peace be upon you. The most fitting interpretation of the narration, which aligns with the status of our Imam Al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) and is consistent with our doctrinal understanding of the infallible, is that this narration serves an educational purpose. The intended audience is truly the Shia of Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them) and the general public. The incident and dialogue between Imams Al-Baqir and Al-Sadiq (peace be upon them) are merely a context to convey the idea to us, similar to other narrations or phrases found in certain supplications that the infallible recited and taught to their companions, despite their apparent inapplicability to them. An example is found in Dua Kumayl: 'O Allah, forgive me for the sins that tear apart the sanctity...' And Allah knows best. May you be successful in all good.