OverviewA religious leader chosen as al-Ma’mun’s successor, though he never became caliph.CategoryScholarPeriodc. 770 – c. 818 CE
Life and settingAli al-Rida was a son of Musa al-Kazim and is recognized as the eighth Imam in Twelver Shi‘i tradition.Source: TDV Encyclopaedia of Islam
Work and legacyAl-Ma’mun designated him as his successor, a politically significant appointment that did not lead to a reign. He died in Khurasan, and his shrine is in Mashhad.Source: TDV Encyclopaedia of Islam
SourcesOriginal concise biography based on the cited references. Historical reports, later devotional traditions and uncertain dates are distinguished where relevant.TDV Encyclopaedia of Islam
