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