The Role of the Askariyayn Imams (a) in Spreading Islamic Teachings

The narrators and companions of Imam Hādī (a) and Imam Ḥasan ʿAskarī (a) were highly influential in the dissemination of the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (a) through training of students and transmission of the traditions of the Imams to the Shīʿas, and they
would also travel to other parts of the Muslim nation [to propagate the same]. The significance of this becomes clearer when, due to the sacrifices and dedication of these narrators, cities such as Qom and Rayy were transformed into centers where Shīʿī scholarship was imparted and the Shīʿa of these places no longer needed to migrate in
order to acquire knowledge of the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (a) or due to harassment by the government representatives [in these cities]. By taking up the mantle as representatives of the Imams in different cities and by starting classes, they created a safe haven for all, and presented the Islamic sciences as taught by the Ahl al-Bayt (a) to the Shīʿa and the lovers of knowledge and thought. These sacrifices of the Shīʿa during a time of repression and tyranny led to freedom from the clutches of the enemies of religion. This essay is presents a brief study of these efforts.