Day: 13 October 2020

Habbah Arni and Nawf Bakali were lying in the courtyard of Government House (Dar al-Imarah) of Kufa. After the midnight, they saw that Amir al-Muminin (as), was coming from the fort towards the courtyard. But his condition was bad; he was having extraordinary fear and was unable to keep the equilibrium of his body. Keeping his hands on the wall and having his body in bent position, he was walking slowly with the support of the wall. And he was reciting the last verses (Ayat) of Sura Al-e-Imran from Noble Qur’an as follows:

 

Most surely in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day there are signs for men who understand. Those who remember Allah standing and sitting and lying on their sides and reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth: Our Lord! Thou hast not created this in vain! Glory be to Thee; save us then from the chastisement of the fire: Our Lord! Surely whomsoever Thou makest enter the fire, him Thou hast indeed brought to disgrace, and there shall be no helpers for the unjust: Our Lord! Surely we have heard a preacher calling to the faith, saying: Believe in your Lord, so we did believe; Our Lord! Forgive us therefore our faults, and cover our evil deeds and make us die with the righteous. Our Lord! Grant us what You have promised us through Your messengers and do not disgrace us on the Resurrection Day; surely You do not break the promise. (3:190-194)

 

As soon as he finished these verses, his condition became bad; he then repeated these verses again and again and his condition became bad to worse and he became almost unconscious.

 

Both Habbah Arni and Nawf Bakali were witnessing this amazing scene, while lying on their beds. Habbah Arni, while quite startled, was looking at this astonishing scene.

 

But Nawf Bakali was unable to control his tears and he was continuously weeping. By this time, Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) reached the bed of Habbah Arni and said: “Are you awake or asleep?”

 

Habbah Arni replied: “I am awake, O Commander of the faithful! If a person like you has such a condition of awe and fear of Allah (SWT), then what would happen to poor people like us?”

 

Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) looked down and wept. He (as) then said: “O Habbah! All of us will be presented before Allah (SWT) one day. And no deed of ours is hidden from Him. He is very near to you and to me. Nothing can act as an obstruction between us and Allah (SWT).”

 

Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) and fear of Allah (SWT)Then he said to Nawf: “Are you asleep?” (Nawf Bakali replied 🙂 “No, Commander of the faithful! I am awake. It is for some time that I am shedding tears.”

 

Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) said: “O Nawf! If today you shed tears in fear of Allah (SWT), tomorrow your eyes will glitter.

 

“O Nawf! No one has more respect than that person who cries in the fear of Allah (SWT) and that he likes to do it only for His sake.”

 

“O Nawf! The one who loves Allah (SWT) and that whatever he loves, he does it just for the sake of Allah, does not prefer anything over love of Allah. And the one who dislikes anything, and does it for the sake of Allah, he would receive nothing except virtue for his disliking. Whenever you reach such a stage, you have attained the truths of faith to their perfection.”

 

After saying this, Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) preached and gave a piece of advice to Habbah Arni and Nawf Bakali. His last sentence was: “I have told you that you should fear from Allah (SWT).” Then he passed by both of them and got busy with his own work. He started his prayers and while doing so, he said: “O Allah! I wish I knew that when I am neglectful towards You, do You ignore me or do You still care for me? I wish I knew that in these long neglectful dreams of mine and in my shortcomings in thanking you, what is my position before You?”

 

Habbah Arni and Nawf Bakali, said: “By Allah! Amir al-Muminin (as) kept on walking and he had the same condition continuously till dawn.”

 

Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) said: “To judge your own souls before the time of judging of your action arrives. Make an assessment of yourself before you are called upon to account for your conduct in this existence.”

 

Noble Qur’an says: (To) those whose hearts tremble when Allah is mentioned… (22:35)

 

Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) said: “Fear none but your own sin.”

One day Prophet Muhammad (saw), accompanied by the Commander of the Faithful, Hazrat Ali (as), had been heading towards the mosque of Quba when they happened to come across a lush green garden. Witnessing it Hazrat Ali (as) commented: “O Prophet of Allah! It is a nice garden.”

 

Survival of Religion Lies in PatienceProphet Muhammad (saw) responded: “Your garden in Paradise is nicer!”

 

They passed by the garden and continued on their way; in the course of their walk they passed by seven gardens and on each occasion the same conversation ensued between the two. Then, Prophet Muhammad (saw) took Hazrat Ali (as) into his arms and began weeping intensely, causing Hazrat Ali (as) to weep too. When Hazrat Ali (as) sought to know the reason for Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) weeping, he (saw) said: “I suddenly recollected the malice that has taken root in the breasts of the people towards you and which they shall make manifest after my death.”

 

Hazrat Ali (as) inquired: “O Prophet of Allah! What should I do?” He (saw) advised: “Patience and fortitude. If you fail to exhibit patience you shall fall into far greater difficulties.”

 

Hazrat Ali (as) said: “Do you fear the destruction of my faith and religion?”

 

Prophet Muhammad (saw) replied: “Your (faith and religion’s) existence lies in patience.”

In the battle of Khandaq, the Muslims dug a ditch around themselves for their defense, so that the enemy could not get across.

 

A man from the enemy side called Amr bin Abdawud who was known for his strength, courage and art of fighting managed to get across the ditch.

 

All the Muslims were terrified to fight him and only Hazrat Ali (as) came forward to fight this man.

 

There was a fierce fight until at last Hazrat Ali (as) threw Amr bin Abdawud down onto the ground and mounted his chest ready to kill him.

 

Just as Hazrat Ali (as) was about to kill this enemy of Islam, he spit on the face of Hazrat Ali (as).

 

Everybody was certain that because of this insult, Amr bin Abdawud would meet his death even faster still, but to their amazement, Hazrat Ali (as) moved from Amr bin Abdawud’s chest and walked away.

 

Hazrat Ali (as) and Anger ManagementAmr bin Abdawud attacked Hazrat Ali (as) again and after a short while, Hazrat Ali (as) again overpowered Amr bin Abdawud and killed him.

 

After the battle of Khandaq was over people asked Hazrat Ali (as) the reason why he had spared Amr bin Abdawud’s life when he had first overpowered him.

 

To which Hazrat Ali (as) replied that if he had killed him then it would have not been only for the sake of Allah (SWT) but also for the satisfaction of his anger and so he let him free.

 

Then Hazrat Ali (as) controlled his anger and killed Amr bin Abdawud purely for the sake of Allah (SWT).

 

Moral of the Story: Although your intention may be pure to begin with it can very easily change so always make sure you do things for the sake of Allah (SWT) only.

The problem of the conflict between the world and the Hereafter and the contradiction between them as two opposite poles, such as the north and the south, which are such that proximity to the one means remoteness from the other, is related to the world of human heart, conscience, human attachment, love and worship. Allah (SWT) has not given two hearts to man:

 

Allah (SWT) has not assigned to any man two hearts within his breast. (Noble Qur’an, 33:4)

 

With one heart one cannot choose two beloveds.

 

Hazrat Ali (as) would always spend time with his children. Once he was sitting in his house with his two young children, Hazrat Abbas, his son, and Bibi Zainab, his daughter.

 

Hazrat Ali (as) said to Hazrat Abbas, “Say Wahid (one)”. Hazrat Ali (as) then asked him to “say Isnain (Two)”. Hazrat Abbas replied, “I feel ashamed to utter ‘two’ from the same tongue which just said ‘one'”.

 

Hazrat Ali (as) hugged his son, pleased at such a charming expression. The reply from Hazrat Abbas indicated how deeply devoted he was in his belief in Tawheed, that is, Oneness of Allah (SWT). A true believer never likes to even imagine any association with Allah (SWT).

 

Bibi Zainab then asked, “Dear, father, do you love me?” Hazrat Ali (as) said, “Yes, of course, my children are like a part of my heart”. On hearing this, she said, “You also love Allah (SWT). How can two loves be in one heart of a true believer, the love of Allah (SWT) and that of children?

 

Hazrat Ali (as) smiled and replied, “Love Allah (SWT) and for the sake of His love, you love His creatures; children and fellow beings too. I love you for the sake of Allah (SWT).”

The name of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) is synonymous with Islam; no episode of early Islam can be mentioned without his presence or participation in one way or another. He was brought up by Prophet Muhammad (saw) himself and was fully immersed in all moral and spiritual aspects of his teachings. It is quite apparent that Allah (SWT) had a plan in providing a gift to His last Prophet Muhammad (saw) on earth, in the magnificent form of Ali ibn Abu Talib (as). The unique qualities of head and heart and physique enabled Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) to lend support in implementing Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) Divine Mission. It is note worthy that the first Revelation did not come and Prophet Muhammad (saw) did not receive the Divine order to proclaim himself as Allah’s Messenger until Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) had matured and was physically able to support the great Mission. Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) followed Prophet Muhammad (saw) like a shadow and protected him from the mischief of the Makkans. The brave son of Hazrat Abu Talib inspired fear among the Makkans and they dared not raise an eye before Prophet Muhammad (saw) when Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) was around.

 

Following are some of the selected quotations describing the character of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) by famous people:

 

George Gordan was a famous Christian historian, linguist, philosopher and poet of the modern Egypt. What he says about Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) is as follows:

 

None can praise to the extent that he [Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as)] deserves. So many instances of his piety and fear of God are cited that one starts loving and venerating him. He was a true, strict and scrupulous follower of Islam. His words and deeds bore stamps of nobility, sagacity and courage of conviction. He was a great man having his own independent views about life and its problems. He never deceived, misled, or betrayed anybody. In various phases and periods of his life he exhibited marvelous strength of body and mind which were due to his true faith in religion and in his sincere belief in truth and justice. He never had servant and never allowed his slaves to work hard. Often he would carry his household goods himself and if anybody offered to relieve him of the weight he would refuse.

 

The famous Egyptian philosopher and Professor of Islamic of al-Azhar University, Allama Mohammad Mostafa Beck Najeeb in his equally famous book say the following about Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as):

 

What can be said about this Imam? It is very difficult to fully explain his attributes and qualities. It is enough to realize that Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) had named him the gateway of knowledge and wisdom. He was the most learned person, the bravest man and the most eloquent speaker and orator. His piety, his love of God, his sincerity and fortitude in following religion were of such high order that none could aspire to reach him. He was the greatest politician because he hated diplomacy and loved truth and justice; his was the policy as taught by God. On account of his sagacity and through knowledge of human mind he always arrived at correct conclusion and never changed his opinions. His was the best judgement, and had he no fear of God he would have been the greatest diplomat amongst the Arabs. He is loved by all, and everyone has a place for him in his heart. He was a man of such surpassing and pre-eminent attributes and such transcending and peerless qualities that many learned men got perplexed about him and imagined him to be an incarnation of God. Several men amongst Jews and Christians love him and such philosophers who came to know of his teachings bow down before his incomparable vast knowledge. Roman kings would have his pictures in their palaces and great warriors would engrave his name on their swords.

 

Allama ibne Abil Hadeed, the Motazili commentator of Nahjul Balagha, says the following about Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as):

 

Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) had a personality in which opposite characteristics had so gathered that it was difficult to believe a human mind could manifest such a combination. He was the bravest man that history could cite, and such brave persons are always hard hearted, cruel, and eager for blood shed. On the contrary Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) was kind, sympathetic, responsive and warm hearted person, qualities quite contradictory to the other phase of his character and more suited to pious and God fearing persons.

 

Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw)Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) was very pious and God fearing person and often pious and religious persons avoid society and do not care to mix with men of sins and men of wrath, similarly warriors, kings and dictators are usually arrogant and haughty, they consider it below themselves to mix with poor, lowly and humble persons. But Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) was different. Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) was friend to all. As a matter of fact he had a tender spot in his heart for poor and humble, and for orphans and cripple. To them he always was a kind friend, a sympathetic guide and a fellow sufferer; he was meek unto them but haughty and arrogant against famous warriors and generals, so many of whom he had killed in hand to hand combats. He was always kind but strict with wayward persons, sympathetically teaching then the way to God. Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) always smiled and passed happy and witty rejoinders, it was difficult to overcome him in debates or repartees, his rejoinders and retorts always bore high mark of culture, education and knowledge.

 

Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) was a scion of a very illustrious, rich and noble clan, as well as son-in-law and great favourite of Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), at the same time he was the greatest warrior and marshal of his time. Yet in spite of his riches he ate, dressed and lived like a poor person. To him wealth was for the use of other needy persons, not for himself and his family. Change of times and change of circumstances did not bring any change in his bearing, mien, or character. Even when he ascended the throne of Arabia and was acclaimed as the Caliph, he was the same Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) as they had found him to be during the previous regimes.

 

Once in the society of Abdullah, son of Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, the leader of the Hanbali sect, a discussion took place about Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) and his caliphate, Abdullah brought the discussion to an end saying that the caliphate did not bring any honour or glory to Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as), but it was itself honoured and glorified by Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) and it received the status actually due to it.

 

World cannot quote an example other than that of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) a first class warrior and a marshal who is also a philosopher, a moralist and a great teacher of religious principles and theology. A study of his life shows that his sword was the only help that Islam received during its early days of struggle and its wars of self-defense. For Islam he was the first line of defense, the second line of defense and the last line of defense. Who was with him in the battles of Badr, Uhud, Khandaq, Khaybar and Hunain? This is one aspect of his life. While the other phase of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) character is portrayed by his sermons, orders, letters and sayings. What high values of morality they teach, what ethics they preach, what intricate problems of Unitarianism they elucidate, how rich they are in philosophy; how they imbibe the spirit of righteousness and teach rulers to become kind, good, benevolent and God fearing rulers, and subjects to be faithful, sincere and law abiding; how they persuade us to be warriors who can fight only for God, truth and justice, and not mercenaries murdering and plundering for wealth and riches; and how they instruct us to be teachers who can teach nothing injurious and harmful to mankind. These are but undisputable proofs of his greatness and spiritual superiority. Has history ever produced a more splendid personality incorporating such variegated characteristics of mind and heart?

 

Taha Husayn, the contemporary Egyptian writer of renown, in his book ‘Ali wa banuh’ (Ali and His Sons), recounts the story of a man during the Battle of Jamal (Battle of Camel). The man is in doubt as to which of the two sides is in the right. He says to himself, “How is it possible that such personalities as Talha and Zubair should be at fault?” He informs Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) about his dilemma and asks him whether it is possible that such great personalities and men of established repute should be in error. Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) answers him:

 

You are seriously mistaken and reversed the measure! Truth and false hood are not measured by the worth of persons. Firstly find out what is truth and which is falsehood, then you will see who stands by truth and who with falsehood.

 

The voice of Human JusticeWhat Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) means to say is that you have reversed the measure. Truth and falsity are not measured by the nobility or baseness of persons. Instead of regarding truth and falsehood as the measure of nobility and meanness, you prejudge persons by your own pre-conceived notions of nobility and meanness. Reverse your approach. First of all find out the truth itself, and then you will be able to recognize who are truthful. Find out what is falsehood, and then you will identify those who are wrong. It is not significant which person stands by truth and which sides with falsehood.

 

After quoting Imam Ali bin Abi Talib’s (as) above mentioned reply, Taha Husayn says:

 

After the Revelation and the Word of God, I have never seen a more glorious and admirably expressed view than this reply of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as).

 

Michael Na’imah, a contemporary Lebanese Christian writer, in the introduction to the book “Sautu’l Adalati’l Insaniyah” (The voice of Human Justice) by George Jordac, also a Lebanese Christian, writes:

 

Championship of Ali was not confined to the battle field. He was also matchless in the matter of faith, piety, purity, eloquence, magnanimity, help for the deprived and the oppressed and support for the truth. So much so that even after the passage of more than fourteen hundred years his wonderful achievements are a beacon light for us and extremely useful for making our lives sublime.

 

We conclude with a quotation from Masoodi, the venerable Muslim historian: “If the glorious name of being the First Muslim, a comrade of Holy Prophet in exile, his faithful companion in the struggle for the faith, his intimate associate in life and member of his family reflect a true knowledge of the spirit of his teachings and of the Book and demonstrate self-abnegation and the practice of justice, and if honesty, purity, love of truth, and knowledge of law and science constitute a claim to preeminence, then all must regard Ali as the foremost Muslim. We shall search in vain to find, either among his predecessors [save Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw)] or among his successors, the level of those virtues with which God endowed him.”

 

Friendship with Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as)After the martyrdom of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) and absolute domination of Mu’awiyah over the Caliphate, willy-nilly contacts were taking place between him and the sincere followers of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as). He tried hard to make them confess that they did not gain anything by their friendship with Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as). Obviously they had lost everything on the altar of that friendship. He longed to hear from their mouth at least some expression of regret and remorse, but this wish never materialized. The followers of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as), after his martyrdom, had become more and more aware of his virtues and greatness. Whatever their sacrifices during his lifetime, now they were doing more for his love, for his principles and for keeping his mission alive. They were facing all kinds of hardship very courageously. And, as a result, the endeavors of Mu’awiyah sometimes produced opposite results.

 

Adi son of Hatim, the paramount chief of the Tai Tribe, was one of the devoted, sincere and knowledgeable followers of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as). He had many sons. He, his sons and his tribe were always ready to sacrifice their all for Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as). His three sons named Tarfa, Turaif and Tarif were martyred in the battle of Siffin under the banner of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as). The time went on; Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) was martyred; Mu’awiyah usurped the Caliphate; and once Adi son of Hatim came face to face with Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan.

 

To revive his sad memories and to make him confess how much harm had come to him in the friendship of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as), Mu’awiyah said:

 

“What happened to your three sons, Tarfa, Turaif and Tarif?”

 

“They were martyred in the battle of Siffin under the banner of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as).”

 

“Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) did not do justice to you.”

 

“Why?”, asked Adi son of Hatim.

 

“Because he threw your sons in the mouth of death and preserved his own sons in safety.”

 

“I did not do justice to Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as).”

 

“Why?”, asked Mu’awiyah.

 

“Because he was killed and I am still alive. I ought to have sacrificed myself for him in his lifetime.”

 

Mu’awiyah saw that he was not getting what he had aimed at. On the other side, he also wanted to hear about the character and life of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) from those who had been nearer to Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) and had lived with him day in and day out. Therefore, he asked Adi son of Hatim to narrate to him the character of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) as he had seen it. Adi son of Hatim asked to be excused; but Mu’awiyah insisted and then Adi son of Hatim said.

 

Adi son of Hatim and Mu’awiyah”By Allah (SWT), Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) was the most farsighted and strong man. He talked with righteousness and decided the cases with clarity. He was an ocean of knowledge and wisdom. He hated the worldly pomp and show, and liked the solitude of night. He wept more (in love of Allah) and thought more (about Allah). In solitude, he scrutinized his own self and pitied about the past. He preferred short clothes and simple life. Amongst us he was like one of us. If we requested him for anything he granted our request. When we visited him he made us sit near him without keeping any distance. Inspite of all this humbleness, his presence was so awe-inspiring that we did not dare utter any words before him. Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) was so majestic that we could not look at him. When he smiled his teeth appeared like a string of pearls. He respected honest and pious people and was kind to indigent. Neither a strong man had any fear of injustice from him, nor a weak person ever lost hope of his justice. By Allah (SWT), one night I saw him standing in his place of worship when the dark night had engulfed everything; tears were rolling down on his face and beard; he was restless like a snake bitten person and was weeping like a bereaved man.”

 

“It seems as if even now I am hearing his voice as he was addressing the world: ‘O World, thou is coming towards me and want to lure me? Go deceive someone else. Thy time is not come. I have divorced thee thrice after when there is no return. Thy pleasure is valueless and thy importance insignificant. Alas! The provision is too little, the journey too long and there is no companion.”

 

Hearing these words of Adi son of Hatim, Mu’awiyah started crying, and then wiping off the tears, he said: “May Allah (SWT) bless Abul Hassan [Imam al-Muttaqeen (Leader of the Pious), Ali (as)]. He was as you have said. Now tell me how do you feel without him?”

 

“I feel like a mother whose dear one is beheaded in her lap.” Replied Adi son of Hatim.

 

“Wouldn’t you ever forget him?” asked Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan.

 

“Would the world allow me to forget him?” Replied Adi son of Hatim.

On one of the occasions when Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan had gone for Hajj Pilgrimage, he made inquires about a woman, by the name of Darmiyah Hajuniyah, who was well-known for her long standing support for Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) and her enmity towards Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan. Having been informed that she was alive, Mu’awiyah ordered her to be brought before him.

When she had arrived, Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan asked her: “Do you have any idea as to why I have summoned you before me? I have brought you here to know why you love Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) and harbour animosity towards me.”

Darmiyah Hajuniyah said: “It is better if you refrain from such talks.”

Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan insisted: “You must answer me.”

Darmiyah Hajuniyah said: “The simple reason that Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) was a just person and supported equality whereas you needlessly fought him. I approve of Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) because he loved the poor whereas I detest you because you shed unwarranted blood, spread dissensions and discords amongst the Muslims, adjudicate oppressively and unfairly, and act in accordance to your carnal desires!”

Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan was infuriated and an impolite dialogue ensued between the two, but eventually Mu’awiyah stifled his anger and as per his habit, exhibiting gentleness, he asked: “Did you see Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) with your own eyes?” She replied: “Yes.” Mu’awiyah then asked: “How?” She said: “By Allah! I had seen him in a state such that this kingdom and sultanate, which has deceived you and made you heedless, had neither deceived him nor made him heedless.”

Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan said: “Have you heard his voice?” She replied: “Yes. A voice that would burnish the heart and clear the turbidity from it just as olive oil clears away the rust.”

Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan said: “Do you desire anything?” She said: “Shall you give me whatever I ask for?” When he had replied in the affirmative, she said: “Give me one hundred red haired camels.”

Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan said: “If I give them to you, would you look upon me as you look upon Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as)?” Defiantly, she said: “Never.”

However, Mu’awiyah ordered one hundred red haired camels to be given to her and then commented: “Had Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) been alive, he would not have given you even one of these.”

Hearing this, Darmiyah Hajuniyah retorted: “By Allah! Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) would not have given me even one single hair of these camels, for he considered them to be the property of all the Muslims.”

One day Mu’awiyah was sitting with his associates and Ahnaf bin Qays was also present. In the meantime a Syrian came and began delivering a speech. At the end of his speech he abused Imam al-Muttaqeen (Leader of the Pious), Ali (as). Thereupon Ahnaf bin Qays said to Mu’awiyah: “Sir! If this man comes to know that you are pleased if the prophets are cursed, he will curse them also. Fear Allah (SWT) and don’t bother about Imam Ali (as) any longer. He has since met his Lord. He is now alone in his grave and only his acts are with him. I swear by Allah (SWT) that his sword was very pure and his dress too was very clean and neat. His tragedy is great”. The following conversation then took place between him and Mu’awiyah:

 

Mu’awiyah: O Ahnaf! You have thrown dust in my eyes and have said whatever you liked. By Allah (SWT) you will have to mount the pulpit and curse Ali. If you do not curse him willingly you will be compelled to do so.

 

Ahnaf: It will be better for you to excuse me from doing this. However, even if you compel me I will not utter any such words.

 

Mu’awiyah: Get up and mount the pulpit.

 

Ahnaf: When I mount the pulpit I shall act justly.

 

Mu’awiyah: If you act justly what will you say?

 

Ahnaf: After mounting the pulpit I shall praise the Almighty Allah (SWT) and shall then say this: “O People! Mu’awiyah has ordered me to curse Imam Ali (as). No doubt Imam Ali (as) and Mu’awiyah fought with each other. Each one of them claimed that he and his party had been wronged. Hence, when I pray to Allah (SWT) all of you should say ‘Amen’. Then I shall say: O Allah (SWT)! Curse him who, out of these two is a rebel and let Your angels and prophets and all other creatures curse him. O Allah (SWT)! Shower Your curses on the rebellious group. O People! Say ‘Amen’. O Mu’awiyah I shall not say anything more or less than this even if I have to lose my life.

 

Mu’awiyah: In that case I excuse you (from mounting the pulpit and cursing).

 

Three bright attributes in the life of Imam al-Muttaqeen (Leader of the Pious), Ali (as)

 

Mu’awiyah once proceeded to Makkah to perform Hajj Pilgrimage. When he reached Madinah and met Saad bin Abi Waqas he asked him to accompany him. Saad bin Abi Waqas agreed. After performing the ceremonies of Hajj Pilgrimage both of them went to Dar al-Nadwa and conversed there for a long time. As Saad bin Abi Waqas had come to perform Hajj Pilgrimage on the suggestion of Mu’awiyah the latter thought that Saad bin Abi Waqas supported him. In order to find out as to how far Saad bin Abi Waqas supported his attitude towards Imam al-Muttaqeen (Leader of the Pious), Ali (as) he, Mu’awiyah began cursing and abusing Imam Ali (as) and asked Saad bin Abi Waqas flattering: “Why don’t you curse and abuse Ali?” Saad bin Abi Waqas got annoyed and said: “You have made me sit on your carpet and then you began abusing Imam Ali (as). I swear by Allah (SWT) that if I had possessed even one of the many attributes possessed by Imam Ali (as) it would have been dearer to me than anything else on earth. I swear by Allah (SWT) that I shall not come to see you so long as I live”. Then he left that place in a state of extreme anger”.

 

One day Mu’awiyah criticized Saad bin Abi Waqas for not cursing Imam Ali (as). He said in reply: “Whenever I am reminded of three virtues of Imam Ali (as), I earnestly desire that I might have possessed at least one of them: 1. On the day on which Prophet Muhammad (saw) appointed him as his representative in Madinah and himself departed for the Battle of Tabuk, he said to Imam Ali (as): You enjoy the same relationship with me which Harun enjoyed with Musa except that no prophet will come after me. 2. On the Day of Khayber Prophet Muhammad (saw) said: Tomorrow I will give the standard to a person who is loved by Allah and the Prophet. All the great officers and commanders of Islam were anxious to acquire this honour. On the following day, however, Prophet Muhammad (saw) called Imam Ali (as) and gave him the standard and Allah (SWT) granted us a great victory which was solely due to the self-sacrifice of Imam Ali (as). 3. When it was decided that Prophet Muhammad (saw) should engage in Mubahilah (cursing) with the leaders of Najran, he held the hands of Ali, Fatimah, Hasan, and Husayn, and said: “O Allah! These are the members of my family (Ahlul Bayt).”

Ibn Abbas narrates: “Once, three hundred gold coins were gifted to Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) which he in turn gifted to the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (as). As Imam Ali (as) took them, he declared: “By Allah (SWT)! I shall surely give this amount in charity in a manner such that it shall be accepted by Allah (SWT).”

Later, Hadrat Ali Murtada (as) narrates: “That night, after having offered the Isha prayer, I picked up one hundred gold coins and came out of the mosque. As I did so, I happened to encounter a woman and so handed over the money to her.” In the morning the people were found to be talking amongst themselves, saying: “Last night Imam Ali bin Abu Talib (as) gave a hundred gold coins in charity to an adulteress.” I was greatly distressed to hear this.

The following night, after the Isha prayer, I picked up another hundred gold coins and came out of the mosque saying to myself: “By Allah (SWT)! Tonight I shall give this in charity such that Allah (SWT) shall accept this act from me. As I emerged from the mosque, I found myself face to face with a man and handed over the money to him.” At daybreak the talk amongst the inhabitants of Madinah was: “Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) has given a hundred gold coins to a thief, and I became immensely despondent.”

The third night I picked up another hundred gold coins and said to myself: “By Allah (SWT)! I shall surely give these hundred gold coins in charity to such a person, that Allah (SWT) shall accept my charity. After the Isha prayer, coming out of the mosque, I ran into a man and handed him the money. In the morning, the people of Madinah were found saying: “Last night Imam Ali bin Abu Talib (as) gave a hundred gold coins to a rich and wealthy person.” I was extremely pained to hear this and so, approaching Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), I informed him of the incidents that had taken place.

Having heard me, Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) said: “O’ Ali! Angel Gabriel (Jabra’il) says: “Allah (SWT), the Exalted, has accepted your charities and considers them to be pure. (As for) the hundred gold coins that you had given to the immoral lady on the first night – returning home she turned to Allah (SWT) in repentance over her past misdeeds and mended her ways. She has set aside the gold coins as her capital and is on the lookout for a husband.

The hundred gold coins of the second night had reached a thief who, upon reaching home, repented over his wrongdoings and utilized the amount for engaging in trade. The hundred gold coins of the third night had reached the hands of a wealthy person, who had not been paying his Zakat (Alms) for years. Reaching home he began to censure himself saying: “How lowly and base can you be? While you have been violating Allah’s ruling and not been paying the obligatory Zakat for several years, Ali Ibn Abi Talib, despite not possessing anything, has given you a hundred gold coins.” Having rebuked himself, he then calculated his unpaid Zakat of several years and disbursed it.” It was due to this act on the part of Hadrat Ali Murtada (as) that Allah (SWT) revealed the following verse in his excellence: “Men whom neither merchandise nor selling diverts from the remembrance of Allah and the keeping up of prayer and the giving of poor-rate; they fear a day in which the hearts and eyes shall turn about.” (Noble Qur’an, 24:37)

At the request of Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), Hadrat Ali Murtada (as) went to buy a shirt for him. Hadrat Ali Murtada (as) went to the market and bought a shirt for twelve Dirhams. Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) asked.

 

“For how many Dirhams did you buy it?”

“For twelve Dirhams.”

“I didn’t like it, I want a cheaper one. Would the shopkeeper take it back?”

“I don’t know, O Messenger of Allah (saw).”

“Please go and see if he agrees to take it back.”

 

Hadrat Ali Murtada (as) took the shirt to the shopkeeper and said to him: “Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) wants a cheaper shirt; would you agree to take it back and give back the money?”

 

The shopkeeper agreed to do so and he gave the money back to Hadrat Ali Murtada (as). Hadrat Ali Murtada (as) took the money to Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw). After this, Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) and Hadrat Ali Murtada (as) went to the market together. While on the way, Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) saw a slave girl, who was crying. He went to her and asked:

 

“Why are you crying?”

 

My master gave me four Dirhams to buy things from the market. I don’t know where that money got lost. Now, I don’t have the courage to go home.

 

Out of twelve Dirhams, Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) gave four Dirhams to the slave girl and said: “Buy whatever you had to buy and go back home.”

 

Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), himself, went to the market and after buying a shirt for four Dirhams, he put it on.

 

While coming back from the market, Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) saw an undressed man. He (saw) quickly took off his shirt and gave it to him. Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) again went to the shop and bought another shirt for four Dirhams. He put it on. On his way, he again saw the same slave girl, who was sitting scared and troubled. Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) asked:

 

“Why didn’t you go home?”

 

“O Messenger of Allah (saw), it’s too late for me and I am scared that they might beat me and ask as to why I took so long.”

 

“Tell me the address of your house and come with me, so that I might request that no one should say anything to you.” Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) took the slave girl with him. As soon as they reached near the house, the slave girl said: “This is the house.” With a loud voice, Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) said:

 

“My salaam to you, the inhabitants of this house.”

 

Assalamu Alaikum ya Rasool AllahHoly Prophet Muhammad (saw) didn’t get any reply; so he (saw) again said, Salaam. But still he got no reply. Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) said Salaam for the third time and then everyone replied saying: “Assalamu Alaikum ya Rasool Allah.”

 

“Why didn’t you people respond me for the first time? Did you not hear my voice?”

 

“Yes! After hearing your voice for the first time itself, we came to know that it was you.”

 

“Then what was the reason for the delay in response?”

 

“O Messenger of Allah (saw), we loved to hear your voice (Salaam) again and again. Your Salaam is virtuous, peace and blessing for us.”

 

“Your slave girl has taken long in coming back. Hence, I have come to request that you don’t punish her.”

 

“O the Messenger of Allah (saw)! By the blessing of your gracious coming over to our place, we have set this slave girl free.” Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) said: “Thanks a million to Allah (SWT). How blessed these twelve Dirhams were; with which two undressed persons got dressed as well as a slave girl got free.”