Biography of Hazrat Ali (RA)

Hazrat Ali (RA) was born inside the Holy Kabah in Mecca on the 13th of Rajab, 23 years before the migration to Medina. He belonged to the Quraish tribe and the family of Bani Hashim. His father, Hazrat Abu Talib (RA), was the uncle of the Holy Prophet (SAW) and had played a significant role in raising and nurturing Hazrat Muhammad (SAW). Hazrat Ali's mother, Fatima bint-e Asad, also belonged to the noble tribe of Bani Hashim and was highly respected by the Prophet (SAW) as if she were his own mother. It was Hazrat Muhammad (SAW) who suggested the name Ali for him, adding further significance to his name. Being the first cousin of the Prophet (SAW), Hazrat Ali (RA) held a prestigious position and was fortunate to have been brought up under the kind and inspiring guidance of the Prophet (SAW) for most of his life.

"The Courageous Youth: Hazrat Ali's Early Acceptance of Islam"

Hazrat Ali (RA) holds the distinction of being the first youth to embrace Islam at a remarkably tender age of 10. When the Messenger of Allah received the first Revelation from the Almighty, he was commanded to begin spreading the message of Islam within his own family. In line with this directive, the Prophet (SAW) invited his closest relatives to a gathering and asked them who would join him in the cause of Almighty Allah. While the rest remained silent, young Ali (RA) fearlessly rose to his feet and declared his unwavering belief in the path of righteousness. Despite his young age and physical limitations, he boldly proclaimed, "Though I am the youngest here with weak eyes and thin legs, I will stand by you, O Messenger of Allah." By taking this courageous stand, Hazrat Ali (RA) became the first young person to enter the fold of Islam.

This remarkable incident demonstrates the exceptional bravery and wisdom displayed by Hazrat Ali (RA) at such a young age. He fearlessly disregarded the opposition and possessed a profound understanding of right and wrong, showcasing his remarkable insight.

He Sacrificial Act: Hazrat Ali's Risk for the Safety of the Holy Prophet

During the early days of Islam, when the Holy Prophet (SAW) began spreading the message, he faced immense opposition from the majority of people, with only a few, including Hazrat Ali (RA), standing by his side. Undeterred by the prevailing hostility, Hazrat Ali (RA) continuously demonstrated his unwavering courage and unwavering loyalty to his cousin, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He shielded the Prophet (SAW) from various threats and dangers that arose.

A critical moment arrived when the enemies of the Prophet (SAW) decided to impose a boycott on him and his household. The situation became so dire that their lives were in grave danger. However, Hazrat Ali (RA) remained steadfast in his commitment to protecting Prophet Muhammad (SAW), a responsibility he had taken on since childhood. The Prophet (SAW) held great love for Hazrat Ali (RA) as well.

On the night of the Prophet's migration to Medina, their house was surrounded by hostile tribesmen who had conspired to assassinate him. They were prepared to kill anyone who emerged from the house. In that perilous moment, the Prophet (SAW) instructed Hazrat Ali (RA) to sleep in his bed. Without hesitation, Hazrat Ali (RA) complied with the command and promptly lay on the bed.

Later that night, as the Prophet (SAW) prepared to leave Mecca with Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) according to Allah's command, he entrusted Hazrat Ali (RA) with the responsibility of returning the belongings that had been entrusted to him by others. Hazrat Ali (RA) willingly accepted this task, fully aware of the risk he was undertaking. He recognized that the disbelievers might attempt to harm him while he slept in the Prophet's bed that night. Yet, with unmatched fearlessness, he prioritized his devotion to the Almighty and His Messenger (SAW).

Hazrat Ali (RA) fulfilled his duty by returning all the entrusted possessions to their rightful owners the following day before joining the Prophet (SAW) in the migration to Medina. This remarkable act exemplifies the selflessness and unparalleled courage of Hazrat Ali (RA), who placed the safety and well-being of the Holy Prophet (SAW) above his own life.

The Sacred Union: Hazrat Ali's Marriage to Hazrat Fatima

In the second year after the migration to Medina, various proposals were presented to the Holy Prophet (SAW) for the hand of Hazrat Fatima (RA), his beloved daughter. However, he (SAW) declined all of them, choosing instead to unite her in marriage with Hazrat Ali (RA) through mutual consent.

This union bestowed upon Hazrat Ali (RA) the esteemed position of becoming the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), solidifying their close relationship with a familial bond. Hazrat Ali (RA) and Hazrat Fatima (RA) lived a contented life together, blessed with five children: Hassan (RA), Hussain (RA), Zainab (RA), Umm Kalthum (RA), and Mohsin (RA), who tragically passed away in early childhood.

Their son, Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), holds the distinguished honor of rendering immense service to the religion of Islam. He demonstrated unwavering bravery by standing against the unjust ruler, Yazid, and ultimately sacrificing his own life in defense of this noble cause.

Hazrat Ali (RA) - The Fourth Caliph of Islam

Following the martyrdom of the third caliph, Hazrat Usman (RA), in the year 35 A.H., Hazrat Ali (RA) assumed the role of the fourth caliph of the Muslim community. This period marked a challenging and testing time for Hazrat Ali (RA), as he had to navigate not only internal rebellions but also strive to maintain peace within the territories under his governance. Due to the significant support he received, he decided to relocate the Muslim capital to Kufa, situated in present-day Iraq.

Hazrat Ali (RA) faced numerous difficulties during his caliphate, yet he remained committed to upholding the principles of a simple Islamic way of life, equality, and honest labor. Despite holding the highest authority in Islam, he humbly sat at shops and engaged in selling dates. He adorned patched clothes, seated himself alongside the impoverished on the ground, and willingly shared meals with them. His primary focus was to ensure that the resources of the Baitul Mal, the Islamic treasury, were swiftly distributed to those who rightfully deserved it. Hazrat Ali (RA) held the belief that the growth of government revenue in the treasury should not be prioritized.

The reign of Hazrat Ali (RA) lasted for approximately five years. Throughout this period, he endeavored to uphold the values of justice, simplicity, and equitable distribution of resources. His caliphate left a lasting impact on the Islamic community, serving as a testament to his commitment to the principles of Islam and his tireless efforts to maintain social harmony and ensure the welfare of the Muslim Ummah.

The Scholarly Eminence of Hazrat Ali in Islam

Hazrat Ali (RA) is renowned not only for his prowess as a warrior but also for his profound scholarship in Islam. The Holy Prophet (SAW) himself acknowledged Hazrat Ali's (RA) exceptional knowledge, proclaiming, "I am the city of knowledge, and Ali is its gate." This statement highlights the elevated position of Hazrat Ali (RA) as a repository of wisdom and understanding.

His command over the teachings of Islam, particularly in the Holy Quran, was truly remarkable. Hazrat Ali (RA) possessed an unparalleled grasp of the scriptures, delving deep into their meanings and extracting profound insights. His eloquence and eloquent speeches captivated audiences, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of those who listened.

Hazrat Ali (RA) also demonstrated remarkable skills in the art of writing. His ability to articulate complex ideas and convey profound thoughts through the written word was unparalleled. His letters and recorded sayings have been meticulously preserved and continue to be revered and followed by the Muslim world to this day. Hazrat Ali (RA) was not only a master of spoken language but also a skilled writer, using the power of the written word to disseminate knowledge and guidance.

His mastery of the Arabic language further enhanced his scholarly prowess. Hazrat Ali's (RA) writings were as impactful and influential as his speeches, carrying the weight of his deep insights and wisdom.

In essence, Hazrat Ali (RA) was not only a valiant warrior but a luminary in the realm of Islamic scholarship. His profound understanding of the teachings of Islam, his exceptional oratory skills, and his ability to express himself through the written word make him an esteemed figure in Islamic history and an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come.

The Martyrdom of Hazrat Ali (RA)

In a tragic turn of events, Hazrat Ali (RA) faced martyrdom at the hands of a rebel named Ibn-e-Muljim. It was during the performance of Salah in the mosque, on the 19th of Ramadan in the year 40 A.H., that Hazrat Ali (RA) was attacked with a poisoned sword. The poison inflicted a great deal of pain and distress upon him, confining him to his sick bed for two agonizing days.

Despite the immense suffering he endured, Hazrat Ali (RA) remained steadfast and resilient. However, the poison eventually spread throughout his body, and on the 21st of Ramadan, during the time of the Morning Prayer, he breathed his last. His final resting place is in Najaf, where he was laid to rest.

Hazrat Ali (RA) was renowned for his unparalleled bravery in battles against the non-believers. His unwavering belief in Allah and His Messenger (SAW), combined with his humility, gratitude, and deep understanding of the teachings of the Quran, shaped his remarkable personality. Throughout his life, Hazrat Ali (RA) dedicated himself to the service of Islam, striving to uphold its principles and propagate its message.

The martyrdom of Hazrat Ali (RA) was a profound loss for the Muslim community, as he embodied the epitome of piety, wisdom, and selfless devotion to the cause of Islam. His legacy continues to inspire generations, reminding them of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of truth and justice.