Eighth Imam
Imam Ali al-Rida (a)
al-Rida — the Pleasing
Livedc. 765–818 CE (148–203 AH)
Resting placeMashhad, Iran (Imam Reza Shrine)
FatherImam Musa al-Kazim
MotherLady Najma
PassingMartyred — poisoned
At the hands ofBy order of the Abbasid al-Ma'mun, Tus
Birth & Lineage
Born in Medina around 148 AH, Ali al-Rida was renowned for his knowledge and his famous public debates with scholars of many faiths.
Life & Virtues
The caliph al-Ma’mun summoned him to Khurasan and pressed him to accept the position of heir apparent, hoping to bind him to the state. The Imam accepted only on the condition that he take no part in its affairs, and continued to teach and guide.
Martyrdom & Legacy
He was poisoned and passed away in Tus in 203 AH. The city that grew around his grave is now Mashhad, “the place of martyrdom,” the holiest shrine in Iran and a destination for millions.