Imam Abu Ja'far (al-Baqir), peace be on him, designated his son al-Sadiq, peace be on him, as an Imam. For al-Sadiq was the pride of the world. He was the pioneer of culture and science in Islam. His father designated him to be an Imam and successor and general authority for the community after him. He said to his followers that it was incumbent on them to follow and obey his son.
Imam Abu Ja'far (al-Baqir), peace be on him, lauded his son, Imam al-Sadiq, peace be on him. He gave an explicit designation for his Imamte. Abu al-Sabah al-Kinani reported. He said: [Abu Ja'far Mohammed looked towards his son Abu 'Abd Allah (al-Sadiq), peace be on him, and said (to us): "Do you see that man? He is one of those of whom Allah, the Mighty and High, said: We wish to grant a favor to those who have been humiliated in the land and We will make them Imams and inheritors.1
'Ali b. al-Hakam reported on the authority of Tahir, who said: [I was with Abu Ja'far (al-Baqir), peace be on him). When Ja'far (al-Sadiq) approached, Abu Ja'far (al-Baqir) said:] "Here is the best of creatures.2
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1. Usul al-Kafi, vol. 1, p. 306.
2. Ibid.
