The Caliphate of 'Ali ibn Abi Talib - Dar al Muslim Editions

Today we're talking about one of the pillars of the best generation: Ali ibn Abi Talib. Cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, his personality and qualities make him a role model. It is therefore appropriate to highlight the immeasurable merits and moral values that littered his life, devoted to the cause of Islam.

Who was Ali ibn Abi Talib?

Ali ibn Abi Talib is the son of Aboû Talib. Himself the son of 'Abd Al-Muttalib. Aboû Talib is therefore the brother of 'Abd Allah, the father of the Prophet ﷺ. This makes them cousins. Later, Ali would also become the Prophet ﷺ 's kindred by marrying his dear and tender daughter Fatimah Az Zahra. From this magnificent union, Al Hassan and Al Hussein, the Prophet ﷺ's two grandsons, would be born. During his childhood, Ali Ibn Abi Talib was taken in charge by Muhammad ﷺ with a view to relieving Abu Tâlib during the years of famine. It was probably for this reason that he was the first child to convert to Islam. He therefore grew up alongside the best of creatures and became one of the wisest men of the best generation.

The power of the bonds between the Prophet ﷺ and his cousin

There was certainly the natural familial love and fiLLAH bond between the two men. But there was even more than that. They had a deep respect and unconditional support for each other. And the adventures they would experience throughout their lives together would only amplify this love, respect and deep desire to do good for each other. The Battle of Khaybar is a particularly noteworthy event. Indeed, on the eve of the battle, the Prophet ﷺ declared:

"Tomorrow I will certainly give the banner to a man through whom Allah will grant victory. "In the morning, the people went to the Prophet (may the prayers of Allah and His salvation be upon him). Everyone hoped he would give them the banner. So he said: "Where is Ali Ibn Abi Talib? They said: - His eyes hurt, O Messenger of Allah! The Prophet ﷺ said: - Send someone to fetch him for me.

When he came, the Prophet spat in his eyes and invoked for him. As a result, he recovered and was as if he had suffered no ill effects. Then the Prophet ﷺ gave him the banner. Ali said: "O Messenger of Allah! Shall I fight them until they are like us? The Prophet ﷺ said to him: - Advance slowly until you reach their territory, then call them to Islam. And inform them of what is obligatory upon them concerning Allah's right. For I swear by Allah, that Allah guiding through you a single man is better for you than owning red-haired camels."

This hadith is just one clear proof, through this tribute on the part of the Prophet ﷺ, of the love and deep respect he ﷺ had for his cousin.

What did Ali Ibn Abu Talib look like?

Physically, he was a man, dark-skinned and of medium height. He had very large black eyes and a beautiful beard. Ali ibn abi Talib liked to emphasize his eyes with kohl. He was athletic. His build reflected broad shoulders and strong, muscular arms.

He was afraid of nothing, and made a human shield of himself to protect our beloved Prophet ﷺ, come what may.

He also had magnificent, undeniable moral qualities. He was a man of science, loved learning and sharing his knowledge.

According to Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, "I am the citadel of science and Ali is its gateway."

(Reported by Muslim)

He was pleasant-tempered, a good listener and gave good advice. Endowed with great wisdom, he gave of his time to help others, especially the poor. He was brave and courageous, and actively participated in the expansion of Islam.

Imam Ahmed ben Hanbal said of him: "None of the Companions of the Messenger of Allah benefited from the values bestowed on Ali."

The last of Islam's 4 caliphs

Indeed, Ali was the successor to Othman ibn 'Affan, may Allah be pleased with them both. During his caliphate, Ali ibn Abi Talib was on all fronts. In the same vein as his predecessors, he ensured respect for the teachings of our Prophet ﷺ and gave himself to the outpouring of the Muslim Empire. He paid attention to the ethics of Muslims. He scrutinized the quality of goods in the markets. Ali also saw to it that transactions were carried out in compliance with Islamic laws and also that people's rights were respected.

The death of Ali ibn abi Talib

Ali ibn Talib was assassinated. The act was committed on the 19th of Ramadan in the 41st Hegira year. On his way to the mosque for the Fajr prayer, Ali ibn Abi Talib was called back by his Lord from his wounds a few days later. It was on the 23rd day of the month of Ramadan, after 5 years and nine months of Caliphate, at the age of sixty, that Ali died.