Characteristics of Hesham

Hesham enjoyed the special favour of the Imams [a]. Those distinguished remarks which have been quoted in the books of great writers in praise of Hesham have not been quoted regarding any other person. The 6th Imam [a] has prayed for him and said:

"Hesham, I have said about you that very thing which the Prophet [s] said about Hassan [a] May the Holy spirit assist you always as long as you assist us by the help of your tongue (speech)." 9 Imam al-Sadiq [a] said, "Hesham is the protector of our cause (right) and the annihilator of the babbling and idle speeches of our enemies.

To follow him is just like following us and likewise to be at enmity with him is like being at enmity with us." 10 One day the Imam said to Hesham, "O Hesham, discuss and argue about religious topics and problems. I am so glad that a person like you were among our Shi'as." 11 Sulaiman ibn Ja'far has narrated when people asked Imam Reza [a] about Hesham, he replied, "May God bless him; he was a benevolent fellow. His fellowmen envied and insulted him." 12

Hesham, from the very beginning of his life as a Shi'a, was favoured by the Shi'a leaders; all followers of the Prophet's household respected him. The Prophet's household and the religious leaders looked upon him with respect and honour.

Notes:

9. Wasail al-Shiah by Sheikh Horr Ameli, vol. 2. Pg. 2O8.

10. Ma'alem al-Ulama, by Ibn Shahr Ashob.

11. "Hazarah e Tousi = Millenery of Tousi", vol. 2. P.142.

12. Tanqih al-Maqal by Mamghani

Adopted from the book: "Hesham Ibn Hakam" by: "Mr. Reza Atai"