Tradition of Mufaddal

Tradition of Mufaddal

Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq (ʿa, an honorific meaning ʿalayhi al-salām — “peace be upon him”) stands among the greatest teachers of divine knowledge, whose discourses combined reason, faith, and reflection on the natural world. The Tradition of Mufaddal preserves one of his most profound dialogues—a remarkable exposition on creation and the signs of divine wisdom throughout the universe.

About the Book

Tradition of Mufaddal is the English translation of a renowned narration attributed to Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq (ʿa) and transmitted by his disciple Mufaddal ibn ʿUmar, later recorded by ʿAllāmah Muḥammad Bāqir al-Majlisī in Bihār al-Anwār (vol. 3, p. 57, ch. 4, tradition no. 29). The text presents a conversation in which the Imam demonstrates the existence and wisdom of the Creator through reflection on nature, the human body, animals, and the elements of the world. The translation, interpreted by Muhammad Ibrahim and published by P.E.T. Publications, captures the Imam’s eloquent reasoning and spiritual depth, making complex theological ideas accessible to readers seeking a rational understanding of faith.

What You Will Discover

• The dialogue between Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq and Mufaddal ibn ʿUmar on the signs of divine creation.
• Explanations of natural phenomena that illustrate divine order and purpose.
• The harmony between intellect (ʿaql) and revelation in understanding the universe.
• The Imam’s reflections on the human body, the animal kingdom, and the natural environment.
• How classical Muslim scholars preserved and transmitted this narration through the centuries.
• The relevance of the Imam’s arguments for contemporary discussions on faith and science.

About the Author

This work originates from the teachings of Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq, recorded and transmitted by his companion Mufaddal ibn ʿUmar. The English interpretation was prepared by Muhammad Ibrahim, drawing upon the compilation of ʿAllāmah al-Majlisī in Bihār al-Anwār. The translator’s aim is to bring the Imam’s rational discourse on divine wisdom to a modern audience in accessible language.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is for readers interested in Islamic theology, the philosophy of creation, and the timeless dialogue between faith and reason in the teachings of Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq.