Once, Imam al-Hadi (a.s.) was informed that one of the Shiite ulama had argued with an opponent of the Ahlul Bayt (s) and confuted him. He was delighted for that. When that scholar came to Imam al-Hadi (a.s.), he welcomed him warmly in his meeting which was full of Alawids and Abbasids. He seated him on a sofa and began talking with him eagerly and respectfully. The Hashemites in the meeting became angry and said to Imam al-Hadi (a.s.), ‘Why do you prefer him to the masters of Bani Hashem?’
Imam al-Hadi (a.s.) said to them ‘Beware to be from those whom Allah has said about, (Have you not considered those (Jews) who are given a portion of the Book? They are invited to the Book of Allah that it might decide between them, then a part of them turn back and they withdraw). Do you accept the Book of Allah as a judge?’
They all said, ‘O son of the messenger of Allah, we do.’
He began proving his opinion by saying, ‘Has Allah not said, (O you who believe! when it is said to you, Make room in (your) assemblies, then make ample room, Allah will give you ample, and when it is said: Rise up, then
rise up. Allah will exalt those of you who believe, and those who are given knowledge, in high degrees; and Allah is Aware of what you do)? Allah does not accept for a knowledgeable believer but to be preferred to an unknowledgeable believer as He wants a believer to be preferred to an unbeliever. Allah has said, (Allah will exalt those of you who believe and those who are given knowledge, in high degrees). Has He said, ‘Allah will exalt those, who are given honor of lineage, in high degrees’. Allah has said, (Are those who know and those who do not know alike?)Then, how do you deny my honoring him for what Allah has honored him? His defeating that opponent of the Ahlul Bayt (s) with the proofs that Allah has taught him is more honorable than every honor of lineage.’
The attendants kept silent after this.