8. Ali ibn Ibrahim has narrated from Salih ibn as-Sindi from Ja'far ibn Bashir from Hanan from his father from abu Ja'far عليه السلام who said: "The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: 'The imamate is not suitable for anyone except for a man who possesses three qualities: piety that safeguards him from the disobedience of Allah, forbearance that controls his anger, and excellence in guardianship over those under his care, such that he treats them with the compassion of a merciful parent." In another narration, it is stated, "to the extent that they regard him as a merciful father."