Exploration of the Relationship between Fazl bin Sahl and Imam Reza (PBUH)

The question of how Imam Reza entered and then settled in Marv, the capital of Islamic caliphate under Abbasid Ma’mun, has raised various hypotheses, specifically centered around some of the important personages of that era. Fazl bin Sahl, surnamed Zhur-Riyasatayn (literally: owning two presidencies), has been mentioned variously with different or even paradoxical analyses regarding Imam’s vicegerency and other important issues. It seems that to achieve a comprehensive and logical comprehension of issues related to Imam Reza, Ma’mun and his court, it is necessary to scrutinize Dhur-Riyasatayn’s thoughts and actions regarding Imam Reza. The present study attempts to use a descriptive-analytical approach and the method of historical study to investigate the role of this powerful vizier of Ma’mun regarding Ma’mun’s relation with Imam Reza. The findings of the study show that Dhur-Riyasatayn had a tremendous influence on Ma’mun, while he himself was influenced by Ma’mun in his relation to Imam, and tried to strengthen his position by approximating his thoughts and decisions to caliph. Fazl, as an authoritative vizier, could manage to dominate Imam, while there is no certain evidence for his being sincere to Imam.