Bohlool was born in Kufa and his real name is Wahab bin Amr, a student of sixth Imam, Imam Jafar Sadiq (as) but also lived in the reign of seventh Imam, Imam Musa Kazim (as), as his companion. Bahlool was a well known judge and scholar who came from a wealthy background. The Abbasid Caliph during the time of Bahlool was Harun Al-Rashid. Abbasid Caliph Harun Al-Rashid had begun a crackdown against the followers of seventh Imam, Imam Musa Kadhim (as), who was at the time in prison. Wahab bin Amr and a few others met seventh Imam, Imam Musa Kadhim (as) and sought advice. Seventh Imam, Imam Musa Kadhim (as) replied with the simple Arabic letter Jeem. Each of these companions took their own interpretation of the letter: Jala-ul-watan (exile), Jabl (refuge in the mountains), and for Wahab bin Amr Junoon (insanity). The next day Wahab bin Amr left his wealthy life, wearing rags and came into the streets. He was soon given the name Bahlool Al Majnoon by the people of Baghdad. By doing this, he was saved from Abbasid Caliph Harun Al-Rashids punishment. Now, without any fear of danger, and in amusing ways, Bohlool protected himself from tyrannies. Bohlool insulted the notorious Caliph and his courtiers just by talking. Nevertheless, people acknowledged his superior wisdom and excellence. Even today many of his stories are narrated in assemblies and teach the listeners valuable lessons.
Posted on: Thu, 02 Oct 2014 07:45:49 +0000