Global Celebrations Mark the Birth Anniversary of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (peace be upon him)
Millions of Muslims worldwide are celebrating the birth anniversary of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (peace be upon him), the fifth Imam, on the first of Rajab. Known as Baqir al-Ulum (the Splitter of Knowledge), the Imam’s legacy of intellectual and spiritual leadership is being honored from the holy shrines of Iraq to community centers as far as Australia.
According to Shia Waves News Agency, the Holy Shrines of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) and Al-Abbas (peace be upon him) in Karbala have been transformed into scenes of joy. The sanctuary of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) has been adorned with colorful flags, decorative lighting, and intricate floral arrangements, attracting crowds of devoted pilgrims. Meanwhile, at the Al-Abbas (peace be upon him) Holy Shrine, a special commemorative banner was inaugurated to honor the Imam’s immense spiritual and scientific status, adding to the atmosphere of celebration.
Born in Medina in 57 AH, Imam al-Baqir (peace be upon him) was the son of Imam Sajjad (peace be upon him) and the grandson of Imam Hassan (peace be upon him) through his mother, Fatime Bint al-Hassan. This unique lineage made him the first to descend from Lady Fatima (peace be upon her) through both parents. According to historical accounts, his most famous title, “Baqir,” was bestowed upon him by the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his pure family), who foretold to his companion Jabir bin Abdullah al-Ansari that the Imam would “split open the depths of knowledge.”
Imam al-Baqir (peace be upon him) is credited with initiating a massive scientific movement that laid the foundations for Shia jurisprudence, theology, and ethics. His school of thought included at least 462 prominent students, and the volume of his teachings was so vast that his companion Muhammad bin Muslim alone narrated 30,000 hadiths from him.
The celebrations extended globally, reaching the Beit al-Hussein Hussainiya in Melbourne, Australia. According to reports, the center—affiliated with Grand Ayatollah Shirazi—hosted a festive gathering where members of the Shia community commemorated the Imam’s virtues and his lifelong commitment to guidance and service.
It should be noted that Imam al-Baqir (peace be upon him) was present at the tragic Event of Karbala as a four-year-old and led the Muslim community for nearly two decades before his martyrdom in 113 AH. He is buried in the Baqi Cemetery in Medina.
