Imam Reza PBUH according to the Sufi Sources up to the 7th Century After Hijrah

Shiite Imams including Imam Reza have been constantly of grand position before the various Sufi groups and they have been considered as the perfect samples in the dynasty of Sufi nobles.
Reminisce of Imam Reza PBUH in Sufi sources can be divided into two distinct era of before and after the seventh century After Hijrah.
Considering the life account of Imam in the first period is limited to some narrations and traditions while in the second one, the political dimensions of that holiness, benevolence and visiting him has been investigated.
Referring to the most ancient Sufi writings, this article has investigated the why and how of the entrance of name and narrations of Imam Reza in Sufi sources and the evolution of it in the first seven centuries After Hijrah. On the basis of the findings of this research, Shiites have revealed more interest to Imam due to the need of being united with Shiites while before that; they have paid attention merely thanks to Imam’s dignity and virtues.