One of the prominent characteristics of the Ahl al-Bayt (as), highlighted in religious texts and authentic Ziyarahs, is their complete submission to the divine will in all their actions and behaviors. This virtue underscores the unique position of the Ahl al-Bayt in the order of existence and their role as intermediaries of Allah’s grace. Examining this aspect enables us to analyze their actions and decisions more profoundly and understand the connection between divine will and the role of the Ahl al-Bayt (as).
In the Ziyarat Jami’a Kabira, the Ahl al-Bayt (as) are described as *“العاملون بإرادته”* (those who act according to His will). This phrase signifies that their words and deeds are entirely aligned with Allah’s decree, and no decision or action from them occurs outside His divine will.
Imam Hadi (as) states in a letter: *”Allah, the Exalted, has made the hearts of the Imams (as) the place where His will enters. Thus, when He wills, they will.”* This statement clearly illustrates the profound connection between the divine will and the will of the Ahl al-Bayt (as).
In another passage of Ziyarat Jami’ah al-Kabirah, the Ahl al-Bayt (as) are described as honorable servants of Allah who never act or speak ahead of His will and remain fully obedient to His commands.
This unique attribute has established them as intermediaries of divine grace and mercy in the universe. Imam al-Sadiq (as), in one of the Ziyarahs of Imam al-Husayn (as), states: *”The will of God regarding all decrees descends first to you, and then, from your homes, it spreads throughout the universe.”* This underscores the central role of the Ahl al-Bayt (as) in the system of divine decrees.
One of the key principles in analyzing the actions and decisions of the Ahlul-Bayt (as) is the understanding that an infallible Imam never undertakes any action without the specific command and will of Allah, the Almighty. Actions such as the peace treaty of Imam Hasan (as), the uprising of Imam Husayn (as), and the non-uprising of other Imams (as) were all carried out in accordance with divine will. Grasping this point allows us to interpret their decisions not from an individual perspective but as integral components of Allah’s divine plan.
Thus, the virtue of being “those who act by His will” (العاملون بإرادته) is among the most significant attributes of the Ahlul-Bayt (as). This quality underscores their profound connection with Allah’s will, highlighting their elevated status as channels of divine grace and agents of His decree in the world.
