Ahmad ibn Hambal's Mental and Practical Approximation Capabilities towards Imami Shiites

Ahmad ibnHambal has a respectful view towards Ahl Al-Bayt and Ali (PBUH). He has mentioned many virtues of the prophet's progeny In his narrative books such as Almosnad and historical books which narrate his life. The nature of this action is an important measure taken towards religious proximity. However there is more to his work than narrating virtues. His glorious view of Ahl Al-Bayt is a special one with particular potentials. Virtues such as scientific authority, being prior among the followers, Vilayat and fondness, taking sides with Ahl Al-Bayt in arguments, criterion for faith and dissension, fight for Tawil in accordance with fight for Tanzil, being equal with Qoran, competition among the followers for the placement of Ahl Al-Bayt are all mentioned in his remarks which are close to Shia.In this paper with avoidance of subjective interpretation, many of his contents have been narrated and matched with a Shia interpretation. The researcher does not intend to take advantage of them but his special approach cannot be overlooked. His Hadith books, particularly Almosnad and virtues of followers are the main references in the present research