Al-Qadi al-Numan ibn Muhammad (d. 974 CE) was a pivotal figure in the Fatimid Caliphate—a chief jurist, historian, and theologian. As the architect of Fatimid-Ismaili jurisprudence, he authored Daʿāʾim al-Islām and numerous other influential works. He served under four Ismaili Imams:

Al-Mahdi Billah (r. 909–934 CE) – Founder of the Fatimid Caliphate; Al-Numan entered Fatimid service under his reign.

Al-Qāʾim bi-Amrillāh (r. 934–946 CE) – Fatimid Imam; Al-Numan continued his service.

Al-Manṣūr Billah (r. 946–953 CE) – Fatimid Imam; Al-Numan remained a key figure.

Al-Muʿizz li-Dīnillāh (r. 953–975 CE) – Fatimid Imam; Al-Numan played a crucial role in shaping Fatimid legal and theological thought.

Majalis and Its Teachings

The Majalis of Qadi Numan, as discussed in this podcast, presents a series of discourses on the expected conduct and devotion of the Imam’s followers. Translated by Professors Jawad Muscati and A. Moulvi, these texts emphasize fundamental themes such as unwavering devotion, sincere love, absolute obedience, and deep reverence for the Imams.

A central concept in the Majalis is “amanat”—the duty of fulfilling commitments and returning trusts to the Imams, symbolizing loyalty to God and the Prophet. Rooted in Quranic principles, Majalis serves as a spiritual guide, fostering a sincere and profound relationship with the Imam through faith, obedience, and moral integrity.

Teachings Across Different Eras

1. ​The Ancient Past (Time of God and the Prophets)

• ​God establishes devotion to Himself, the Prophet, and spiritual leaders as a duty (Majlis 1).
• ​The Prophet Muhammad identifies Ali, Fatima, Hasan, and Husain as his “kith and kin,” whose love is enjoined upon Muslims (Majlis 2).
• ​God commands the return of amanat (trusts/deposits) to their rightful owners (Majlis 3).
• ​God makes a covenant with the momin (believers) (Majlis 5).

1. ​The Time of the Imams

• ​The Imams emphasize Wilayat (spiritual authority) and submission to the Imamat (Majlis 1).
• ​Imams such as Abu Jafar Muhammad al-Baqir and Jafar al-Sadiq stress love for the Ahl al-Bayt (Majlis 2).
• ​Imam Jafar al-Sadiq teaches that deposits must be returned, even to enemies (Majlis 3).
• ​Imam Husain ibn Ali describes the varying levels of reward based on love and support for the Imams (Majlis 3).
• ​Imam Jafar al-Sadiq defines friendship and enmity based on a person’s associates (Majlis 12).
• ​Imam Muhammad al-Baqir outlines the qualities of his true followers (Majlis 12).
• ​The Imams are the gates of God (Majlis 6).
• ​Imam Jafar al-Sadiq instructs followers to be “silent propagandists” through righteous deeds (Majlis 7).

1. ​The Present Time (Qadi Numan’s Era)

• ​Qadi Numan writes to instruct and guide the followers of the Imam on their duties and conduct.
• ​His teachings emphasize love, respect, and obedience to the Imam.
• ​He underscores the importance of fulfilling amanat, keeping pledges, sincerity, and loving those who love the Imam.
• ​Through anecdotes and reasoned arguments, he seeks to persuade readers to adhere to these principles.

The Majalis remains a profound spiritual guide, reinforcing the eternal bond between the Imam and his followers, rooted in faith, loyalty, and ethical responsibility.