This anecdote is narrated by Allamah(RA)’s Daughter, Sister Najma As-Sadat Tabatabai(HA)

One of the outstanding characteristics of my father was his close relationship with his students – especially Agha-ye-Mutahhari(RA).  He himself used to say:

“Every time I sit with my friends, it is as if the entire world lights up in my view.  Truly I take pleasure (from their company).”

Allamah(RA) used to speak very little, and he also used to advise others to speak less. He regarded speaking a lot as a sign of a weak intellect. He talked very simply and in such a manner that sometimes people used to believe he was an ordinary individual, and not a scholar and a philosopher. 

Taken from: “Stories from the life of Allamah Tabatabai(RA) by Ahmad Luqmani, Allamah Tabatabai, “Meezan-e-Marefat”, translated by S.K. Yusufali, Qum, Iran, 2006

This anecdote is narrated by Ayatullah Ibrahim Amini(HA)

Allamah Tabatabai(RA) was extremely kind and sentimental.  He never forgot his friends and always kept in touch with them.  He acted benevolently with his private students, and was attached to and familiar with them, and inquired about the situation of those who had moved to other cities.  

Taken from: “Stories from the life of Allamah Tabatabai(RA) by Ahmad Luqmani, Allamah Tabatabai, “Meezan-e-Marefat”, translated by S.K. Yusufali, Qum, Iran, 2006

This anecdote is narrated by Ayatullah Jawadi-Amuli(HA)

Allamah Tabatabai(RA)’s manner was one that conformed completely to the Quran.  Perhaps it can be said that his behavior had become the Quran.  Every verse that God has placed in the Quran describing a perfect human being (Insan-e-Kaamil), we found it in Allamah(RA)’s behavior to the extent that it is possible to be seen in an individual. 

His gatherings were those of perfect Islamic etiquette and Godly character.  It was rare for him to commit even an action which, without being a sin, was not the best course of action to take (tark-e-owla).  He never mentioned someone’s name with ill-feeling, nor anyone’s bad characteristics, and tried to always pray for the well-being of others. 

Taken from: “Stories from the life of Allamah Tabatabai(RA) by Ahmad Luqmani, Allamah Tabatabai, “Meezan-e-Marefat”, translated by S.K. Yusufali, Qum, Iran, 2006

This anecdote is narrated by Ayatullah Ibrahim Amini(HA)

Allamah Sayyed Muhammad Husayn Tabatabai(RA) was refined, kind, chaste,   humble, sincere, lacking desire, patient, sweet and a great companion.  For 30 years I was with Allamah, attending his classes, participating in his private Thursday night and Friday sessions, and benefiting from his presence as much as I could.  Not once during this time do I remember him ever becoming angry or yelling at one of his students or speaking harshly or insulting anyone. 

He used to teach his classes calmly and quietly, never raising his voice.  He became familiar and made friends with others very quickly.  He was so friendly with everyone, that even with a new student, one might have thought they were two dear friends.  He listened to everyone and always displayed signs of love and friendship.  He was incredibly humble…and did not give importance to the number of his students, sometimes agreeing to teach only two or three individuals.

In private sessions he would normally remain quiet and calm.  If he were asked a question, he would answer, and if not, he would maintain his silence.  Occasionally if someone would refer to him as a Professor (Ustad), he would say:

“I do not like this title. We have gathered here as colleagues in thought so that we might discover the truths of Islam”.

Allamah was very well mannered, listening to every individual and never interrupting anyone.  If he heard the truth he would acknowledge it.  He would avoid argumentative discussions, but willingly answer any sincere questions asked of him. 

Taken from: “Stories from the life of Allamah Tabatabai(RA) by Ahmad Luqmani, Allamah Tabatabai, “Meezan-e-Marefat”, translated by S.K. Yusufali, Qum, Iran, 2006