Imam Reza (AS) Loves You: Understanding the Depth of His Care and Connection
A Step-by-Step Guide to Realizing the Imam’s Love and Our Relationship With Him
Many of us, when visiting the shrine of Imam Reza (AS), find ourselves calling out, “O Imam, look at me! O Imam, don’t forget me!” But have we ever paused to reflect on the true nature of our relationship with this noble Imam? Sometimes, our words may reveal a misunderstanding—one that underestimates the dignity, love, and attentiveness of an immaculate Imam. Let’s take a step-by-step journey to correct and deepen our understanding of Imam Reza’s (AS) love for us.
Step One:
Who Loves First—You or the Imam?
A profound tradition from Imam Ali (AS) states:
“Remembering comes first from the One [God] Who remembers and second from the one who is remembered.” (Ghurar al-Hikam, Vol 1, p.118)
This means that when we remember God, it is because He first remembered us. The same principle applies to our connection with Imam Reza (AS). If you find yourself longing to visit his shrine, know that this desire began with him remembering you first. He wanted you to come to him, and only then did you feel the urge to visit. This may be a difficult concept to grasp, but it is a reality rooted in our spiritual tradition.
Step Two:
Are We Strangers to the Imam, or Does He Know Us?
Our love for Imam Reza (AS) is not a one-sided affair. The Imam has known us since our childhood; he knows our families and our children. Consider this narration:
When Imam Reza (AS) was traveling toward Tus, he stopped to attend the funeral of a follower who had passed away in a city along the way. His companions were surprised by the Imam’s concern and asked if he knew the deceased. Imam Reza (AS) replied,
“Is it possible that we don’t know him? We know all our Shia friends.” (Managib, vol 4, p.341)
This tradition reminds us that the Imam’s knowledge and care for us are personal and profound.
Step Three:
The Imam’s Deep Concern for You
The Quran describes the Prophet Muhammad (S) as being deeply concerned for the well-being of his followers. This same quality is present in the Imams. Imam Reza (AS) cannot bear to see us suffer. He reviews the record of our deeds every week—not as a bureaucratic task, but with the loving attention of a mother watching over her child. He is always concerned about our well-being, constantly checking on us with love and care.
Step Four:
Does the Imam Pray for You?
A man once asked Imam Reza (AS) not to forget him in his prayers. The Imam replied,
“Does your Imam forget you in his prayers that you make this request?”
The man realized that the Imam’s prayers already included him, and the Imam clarified,
“Refer to your own heart. How would you like the Imam to be with regard to you? I am that way toward you.” (Kafi, vol 2, p.652)
This means that if you wish for the Imam to pray for you specifically, he does so. His prayers are not just general; they are personal and attentive to each of his followers.
The Final Step:
Believing in the Imam’s Love
In a world often marked by cruelty and indifference, it can be hard to believe that someone loves us so deeply. But the love and generosity of Imam Reza (AS) are real. If you struggle to accept this, take time to reflect and think about it. Gradually, you will come to realize the immense kindness and care the Imam has for you. With reflection, your heart will open to the reality of his love.
Conclusion:
Imam Reza (AS) knows you, loves you, and prays for you. Our relationship with him is not distant or formal—it is intimate, loving, and full of care. By understanding these truths, we can approach the Imam with greater confidence, gratitude, and love, knowing that we are always remembered and cherished by him.
Source: Reza Panahian