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In the Name of the Most High Islamic Information Center Imam Ali Adam Ali: The Continuation of the Prophet’s Legacy P.1 Noah Abraham Ismail Isaac Imam Ali’s Life in Service of Islam Imam Ali and the Shia -Sunni “Split” Understanding the Roles of Imam Ali Historical Research on Imam Ali’s Words Frequently Asked Questions about Islam Moses David Solomon Mary Jesus Muhammad Fatima Ali Hasan Husain The Ahlul Bayt Muhammad Ali Fatima Hasan Husain Prophet Muhammad and his immediate family members are referred to as the “Ahlul Bayt.” Their contribution towards Islam is remembered with great pride, and they hold a special place in the hearts of Muslims. Ali: The Continuation of the Prophet’s Legacy Two of the most common names in the world today are Muhammad and Ali (Peace Be Upon Them). Muhammad is the Messenger of Islam, but who is Ali? Why is he revered? What is his role in history, and how does his life continue to impact modern society? Jesus. Prophets are considered to be brothers to one another, and all members of the same true religion of God, passing on the same message throughout history. While the Prophets acted as Messengers of God and leaders of humanity, the Prophethood ended with Prophet Muhammad. After him, however, God chose to leave pious and just leaders on Earth, each one bestowed with the title of “Imam,” which literally means “Leader.” Understanding the importance of Ali for Muslims will help give a clearer picture of Islam, which is one of the world’s largest and fastestgrowing religions. Ali’s very message builds bridges of unProphet Muhammad, derstanding, and replaces mis- joined by his daughter Fatima, trust with friendship. his son-in-law Ali, and his grandchildren Hasan and A “Prophet” is what is used Husain (Peace Be Upon Them), to describe a Messenger of embarked upon a journey to God. Throughout history, vari- bring peace, harmony, and ous Prophets have been sent friendship to the world. Their by God to represent His affairs actions changed the course of on Earth. They include histori- history forever. However, it all cal figures such as Adam, began with Ali’s continuation Noah, Abraham, Moses, and of the Prophet’s legacy. P.2 P.4 P.5 P.7 P.8 What is the IIC? The Islamic Information Center (IIC) is a non-profit grassroots organization that was established to inform the public about the true image of Islam and the beliefs of Muslims through mass media. Who runs the IIC? The IIC is run by our chairman, Imam Syed Naqvi, and our committees, and is supported by our volunteers. The IIC currently has 5075 people actively working in these committees. Inside: Read quotes by Imam Ali regarding Islam, life, and his attitude towards worship. Read more about why 1.2 billion Muslims regard Imam Ali as one of the most influential men in history. Page 2 After Imam Ali’s assassination, he was buried in Najaf, Iraq. In the centuries following his death, this shrine (left) was built to honor him. Najaf has consequently become one of the literary, academic, and scientific centers of Islamic thought. It is also one of Islam’s most revered Holy Sites. Imam Ali’s Life in Service of Islam Imam Ali stands as a prominent figure in Islamic history for his wisdom, selflessness, and early devotion to monotheism and Islam. He was born in the year 600 AD to his parents Abu Talib, and Fatima, the daughter of Asad. The circumstances of his birth are remarkable, since several Arab historians have noted that he was born in the ancient Ka’ba, known to Muslims as the “House of Allah” and the direction toward which they pray to proclaim the oneness of God. This unusual birthplace foreshadowed Imam Ali’s passionate devotion to monotheism. After the death of this parents, Muhammad was raised by his cousin Ali’s family. They were raised as brothers, placing Ali under the direct tutelage of the Prophet of Islam at a young age, even before Prophet Muhammad an- nounced the religion of Islam. Once Muhammad began his prophetic mission, Imam Ali was the first male to accept his message of Islam, second only to Khadijah, the wife of Prophet Muhammad. Again, his decision was extraordinary given his young age: although he was considered a mere youth, he proclaimed the oneness of God and pledged to support the Prophet at a time when most of his wealthy relatives scoffed his invitation to Islam. From that point onwards, Imam Ali remained closely beside the Prophet, willing to contribute in any way to protect the message of Islam and its Prophet. One of the earliest and best known instances of such a sacrifice came on the eve of the historic Hijrah, the migration of the Muslims out of Mecca. When a plot aiming to kill the Prophet in his slumber was uncovered, Imam Ali took his place and slept in the bed, thereby saving his life. Imam Ali continued to play several such crucial roles; his skill, wisdom, and forethought were evident in debates and negotiations between Muslims and other Arab tribes. www.IslamicInformationCenter.org Page 3 Alternative Spellings Mohamad Mohammad Mohammed Muhammad Muhamad Mohamed Mohamet Mehmet Two years after migrating from Mecca, Imam Ali requested the hand of Lady Fatima Zahra, the Prophet’s daughter, for marriage. With her consent, they were married and would have four children that were beloved in the eyes of the Prophet. Furthermore, Imam Ali and L a d y Fatima Z a h r a would become one of the shining examples of a truly blessed matrimony. In the last days of the Prophet’s life, he made a final pilgrimage to Mecca. On the return trip, he stopped all the caravans with him in the field of Khumm. There, during his sermon he declared that “Imam Ali is the Master of all those men and women whose Master I am." Two verses from the Qur’an were revealed at this event, one before and one after the Prophet’s declaration, confirming that this message was one inspired and directed by God. Imam Ali was beloved by God, and chosen as a Ali Aly Aley suitable leader for the community. Ironically however, he was denied this divine-right position. Soon after the prophet’s death, much strife broke out amongst the people, and others were selected to lead as caliphs of the young Muslim nation. Imam Ali would not be elected by this party until the third caliph had been murdered. Nevertheless, he became the fourth caliph for a short duration. He took firm steps to establish fairness and order through social and economic reform, dismissing scrupulous tax collectors, corrupt officers, and any who had abused their positions. He faced much opposition for his unwavering sense of justice, and his position was also greatly coveted. Imam Ali was soon assassinated during the Islamic morning prayer services. One of the greatest champions for equality, truth, and justice left this world tragically, but still in state of submission to God. Ali Alih Fatema Hasan Hassan Husain Hussain Husein Hosein Hussein Hosain Hosayn Hossain Why are there so many ways to spell the same name? In the Arabic language, the spelling and pronunciation of these names is quite clear; however, when transliterated into English, a variety of spellings may result depending upon the conversion method used. Page 4 Imam Ali and the Shia-Sunni “Split” Although the terms Sunni and Shia (also referred to as “Shi’ite”) have taken on a very geopolitically charged meaning in the modern context, they originate from the disagreements in early Muslim communities over the role of the Holy Prophet’s household in Islam. One of the most notable breaking points can be traced back to the issue of succession following Prophet Muhammad’s death. A major event, known as Ghadir Khumm, is recorded by scholars of both denominations. This occasion marks the Prophet’s final message to Muslims after his last pilgrimage. In this speech, he indicated that his death was imminent, and that he would be giving final instructions to the Muslim community within that speech. Accordingly, he gathered a crowd of hundreds of thousands to hear his message. He brought Imam Ali by his side, raised his hand and famously said, “For whomever I am a Maula of, then Imam Ali is his Maula.” This claim, and specifically the use of the word “Maula” have been interpreted differently by Muslims. Some chose to believe that the word Maula meant friend. Common practice and scholarly analysis, however, suggests something more: that the Prophet used Maula to mean “leader,” and thereby publically declared his successor. After this proclamation, the final verse of the Holy Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad. It was a message from God, indicating that the Prophet’s mission was finally complete. The verse “And on this day, I have perfected religion for you” (Qur'an, 5:3) showcased Imam Ali’s leadership. For those who knew and supported Imam Ali, there could have been no better person to charge with the heavy duty of leadership after the death of the Prophet. In his speech at Ghadir Khumm, the Prophet said that if [Muhammad] was the city of knowledge, then Imam Ali was its key. A lifetime of publically and privately learning directly from the Prophet rendered him intimately familiar with the Prophet’s wisdom on gnosis, reason, the Qur’an, and the Sharia (Islamic law). To his supporters, Imam Ali’s succession seemed to be part of Allah’s divine will, and not merely based on the whims of the people. This event would later evolve into a political split with cultural repercussions. The supporters of Ali, in Arabic, were called “Shia”, and were known even before the speech of Ghadir Khumm. Other factions of Muslims felt otherwise. They wanted to elect their own leaders, and became known as “Sunnis.” Their leaders were called “Caliphs,” and from them arose the historical Muslim “dynasties.” Ironically, Imam Ali was elected as the fourth Caliph, and is regarded as the last of the “Righteous Caliphs.” The split later eschewed many philosophical differences. As Muslim scholars studied Islamic philosophy in the centuries following the Prophet’s death, two distinct types of views arose. The Sunni scholars held a variety of beliefs, and classically were unable to reconcile one particular philosophy as the “true Islamic belief.” Functionally, this gave rise to more than a dozen subsets of Sunnism. On the other side, the Shias maintained a close focus on Imam Ali and his direct successors. These successors, or “Imams,” were able to speak with authority on Prophet Muhammad’s teachings. Not only were they revered in the academic community for their strict logical methods in study, but they were the descendants of Prophet Muhammad himself, and were accordingly focused on their great-grandfather’s teachings as a matter of familial heritage. Because of this relationship between the Shias and the Imams, and between the Imams and the Prophet, a single unified philosophy arose, and has continued to define Shi’ite thought into modern times. Regardless of the philosophical differences, Shi’ites and Sunnis have always maintained a strong focus on unity. As expected, within history there have been a exceptions to the rule, but it is not only “uncommon” for Shias and Sunnis to live harmoniously in large sized communities, it is often expected. Page 5 Understanding the Roles of Imam Ali: Imam Ali as a Leader, Scientist, and Friend Ali ibn Abu Talib was one of Islam’s greatest heroes. He was the fourth Caliph, and the first Imam—which is why he carries the distinction of being referred to as Imam Ali. Ali is not only beloved to Muslims because of his great achievements and faith, but because he was beloved to the Prophet as well. From the day Imam Ali was born, his life became inseparably intertwined with the Prophet’s life, and Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) was like a brother to him. When Ali’s mother emerged with her newborn from inside the Kaaba where he was born, the prophet awaited their arrival. As Muhammad cradled Ali in his arms, the infant opened his eyes for the first time, and the Prophet named him Ali—the exalted one. Prophet Muhammad was taken in by his uncle, Abu Talib, soon after he was orphaned. Abu Talib was also Ali’s father. When Ali was five years-old, there was a famine that placed an economic strain on his father. Because Abu Talib had an extensive family, he entrusted the Prophet with Ali’s guardianship. For almost 30 years, the Prophet guided the leader emerging in Ali. The Prophet educated Ali about all aspects of life, contributing to the future distinctiveness of the Imam as an incredible scholar. In the Nahjul Balagha, Peak of Eloquence, Imam Ali comments on his upbringing by the Prophet and the influence it had on him: “The Holy Prophet brought me up in his own arms and fed me with his own morsel. I followed him wherever he went, like a baby camel which follows its mother. Each day, an aspect of his character would beam out of his noble soul and I would accept it and follow it as a command.” Ali was only ten years old the Prophet came to him with the message of Islam, and Ali professed himself a believer. He was the first male to do so. Ali was a constant companion to the Prophet, and acquired a great deal of knowledge from his teachings. The Prophet once told Ali, “You stand to me in the same relation in which Aaron stood to Moses.” Muhammad held such high regard for Ali that he entrusted him to marry his beloved daughter, the Lady Fatima. The Imam Ali held great distinction as a scholar, leader, and magnanimous gentleman. There are many aspects of his life that Muslims and non-Muslims alike admire and use as a model for their own lifestyle. Academics Imam Ali was a man of great wisdom. His academic achievements ranged from poetry to theology to scientific thought. He was an incredible orator, and his sermons are extremely powerful and passionate. In fact, a large number of his sayings were compiled in the Nahjul Balagha. Ali was one of the first to contribute to metaphysics, or the divine science, and Arabic grammar. “Allah” vs. “God” In the Arabic language, “God” is simply translated as “Allah.” In fact, the Arabic version of the Bible uses “Allah” as the word for God. It is simply a difference in language, not a difference in belief. Countless Christians and Jews worship “Allah” just as their counterparts in other countries worship the same God. Quotes About Imam Ali Thomas Carlyle (1795-1881) Scottish historian, critic, and sociological writer. “As for this ... Ali, one cannot but like him. A noble-minded creature, as he shows himself, now and always afterwards; full of affection, of fiery daring. Something chivalrous in him; brave as a lion; yet with a grace, a truth and affection worthy of Christian knighthood.” [On Heroes, Hero-Worship, And The Heroic In History, 1841, Lecture 2: The Hero as Prophet. Mahomet: Islam., May 8, 1840)] Washington Irving (1783-1859) Regarded as the “first American man of letters”. "He was of the noblest branch of the noble race of Koreish. He possessed the three qualities most prized by Arabs: courage, eloquence, and munificence. His intrepid spirit had gained him from the prophet the appellation of The Lion of God, specimens of his eloquence remain in some verses and sayings preserved among the Arabs; and his munificence was manifested in sharing among others, every Friday, what remained in the treasury. Of his magnanimity, we have given repeated instances; his noble scorn of... He also studied the esoteric facets of the Quran. Imam Ali’s ardor for academia was a considerable part of his personality, and his wise and carefully expressed opinions contributed to his greatness as a leader. Imam Ali was an amazing leader in battle, governance, and religion. His dealings amongst his people in a just manner, and his advice of matters on religion and state were sought by Muslims and non-Muslims alike. geous giver. He has been recorded on numerous occasions to have given away his last meal or last blanket to those less fortunate than him. The Imam led an extremely simple life, even during his rule as Caliph. He believed that one should focus on God and not on worldly possessions. He had no servants in his home, and he and his wife, the Prophet’s daughter Fatima, did all the housework. He ate simple meals consisting of flour and water, and he gave away the riches he received as gifts or in battle to others. Some historians believe that he was kind to a fault, while many others consider him flawless. In either case, there is no doubt of Imam Ali’s generosity to others and humble lifestyle. He is quoted has saying, “One who gives a little, is given a lot.” Generosity/Humbleness Piety Leadership Imam Ali was the fourth Caliph and the first Imam of Islam. He was a successful leader, even though his reign as Caliph and Imam were pitted with turmoil. He was a patient man who did his best to rule mercifully. Imam Ali was an outra- cept the prophet’s word from God at the tender age of ten, Imam Ali grew up to be a man of deep-rooted faith. His complete submission to God’s will and unshakable belief in his faith made Imam Ali a great religious authority as well as an example for all Muslims to look up to. Ali’s devoutness can be seen in the simple life he led. He lived, breathed, and spoke through a lens of faith: “Faith is experience by the heart, avowal by the tongue, and action by the limbs.” Imam Ali Valor On many occasions, Imam Ali is referred to as The Lion of God, or the Lion-hearted. He exhibited both tremendous courage and mercy throughout his life. Imam Ali was famously known as someone whom the poor and the rich could always turn to for help, and never expect to be refused. As the first male to ac- www.IslamicInformationCenter.org Page 7 Quotes About Imam Ali (continued) Historical Research on Imam Ali’s Words Imam Ali is one of history’s most studied of Islam’s heroes. In fact, hundreds of sermons and letters written by Imam Ali were compiled after his death and published in a book entitled “Peak of Eloquence” (or in Arabic “Nahjul Balagha”). This book provides a snapshot of Imam Ali’s life and dealings with the people. The sermons, however, contain a code of conduct and philosophy that more than one billion Muslims subscribe to, even today! The following sermon has been extracted from this widely available book, showcasing Imam Ali’s style of speaking. Sermon 85: “On Preparing for the Next World” (Heaven) “Allah knows hidden matters and is aware of inner feelings. He encompasses everything. He has control over everything and power over everything. Everyone of you should do whatever he has to do during his days of life before the approach of death, in his leisure before his occupation, and during the breathing of his breath before it is overtaken by suffocation, should provide for himself and his journey and should collect provision from his place of halt for his place of stay. So remember Allah, O' people, about what He has asked you in His Book to take care of, and about His rights that He has entrusted to you. Verily, Allah has not created you in vain, nor left you unbridled, nor left you alone in ignorance and gloom. He has defined what you should leave behind, taught you your acts, ordained your death, sent down to you ‘[the Qur'an] explaining everything’ (Qur'an, 16:89), and made His Prophet live among you for a long time till He completed for him and for you the message sent through the Qur'an, namely the religion liked by Him, and clari- fied through him His good acts and evil acts, His prohibitions and His commands. ...everything false and mean, and the absence in his conduct of everything like selfish intrigue." He placed before you His arguments and exhausted his excuses upon you. He put forth to you His promises and warned you of severe retribution. You should therefore make full atonement during your remaining days and let yourselves practice endurance in these days. These days are fewer as against the many days during which you have shown obliviousness and heedlessness towards admonition. Do not allow time to yourselves because it will put you on the path of wrong-doers and do not be easy-going because this will push you towards sinfulness. [Lives of the Successors of Ma- O' creatures of Allah! The best adviser for himself is he who is the most obedient to Allah, and the most deceiving for himself is he who is the most disobedient to Allah. Deceived is he who deceived his own self. Enviable is he whose Faith is safe. Fortunate is he who takes lesson from others, while unfortunate is he who fell victim to his desires. You should know that even the smallest hypocrisy is like believing in more than one God, and keeping company of people who follow their desires is the key to obliviousness from religion, and is the seat of Satan. the poetic vein himself, and Be on your guard against falsehood because it is contrary to Faith. A truthful person is on the height of salvation and dignity, while the liar is on the edge of ignominy and degradation. Do not be jealous, because jealousy eats away Faith just as fire eats away dried wood. Do not bear malice because it is a scraper (of virtues). And know that desires make wit forgetful and make memory oblivious. You should falsify desire because it is a deception, and he who has desires is in deceit.” homet, London, 1850, p. 165] "He was one of the last and worthiest of the ancient Moslems, who imbibed his religious enthusiasm from companionship with the Prophet himself, and followed to the last the simplicity of his example. He is honourably spoken of as the first Caliph who accorded some protection to Belles-Lettres. He indulged in many of his maxims and proverbs are preserved, and have been translated in various languages. His signet bore this inscription: 'The kingdom belongs to God'. One of his sayings shows the little value he set upon the transitory glories of this world, 'Life is but the shadow of a cloud - the dream of a sleeper'." [Lives of the Successors of Mahomet, London, 1850, pp. 187-8] Islamic Information Center Since 2002 Page 8 Islamic Information Center Frequently Asked Questions About Islam Main Headquarters National Press Building 529 14th St. Suite 1292 Washington DC. 20045 What does Islam mean? Islam means peace achieved through the submission to the Almighty God. Los Angeles Office 1761 W. Romneya Ave, Suite#C, Anaheim, CA 92801 If Islam steps from peace and understanding, why are there certain so-called Muslims who do not believe in peace? People are like that because of their ignorance. Islam believes in a philosophy of co-existence: live in peace, and let others live in peace. If one doesn't believe this, it is due to ignorance. Contact Information Phone: 202-347-6405 Fax: 202-347-6406 [email protected] www.IslamicInformationCenter.org What is the Qur'an and what is it about? The Qur'an is the last revelation of God among the divine revelations such as the Psalms, Torah, and the Bible. It is a comprehensive book that talks about every aspect of creation. Holy Qur'an. "There is not a wet or dry thing on the earth that is not in the Qur'an." Islamic Information Center What does Islam say about those who die who are not Muslims, but still posses good (IIC) is a non-profit grassvirtues, ie. Martin Luther King, Mother Teresa, and so forth? roots organization that Islam is philosophically based on justice. Whoever does good will be rewarded by God either in this life or in the next. was established to inform the public about the true What is a ‘Muslim’? image of Islam and the A Muslim is a person who submits to his Creator only. beliefs of Muslims through mass media. How does someone become a Muslim? A person must completely believe in God, follow the Prophet, and engage in good deeds. The mission of IIC is to provide an accurate Why is Islam so demanding on rules and restrictions, like praying five times a day? source of Islamic InformaIslam wants followers to always have love and remembrance of God. In this way, we are continually tion and to correct misreminded of His Mercy. conceptions about Islam. Do Islam, Judaism, and Christianity have different origins? IIC disseminates information about Islam in accor- No, we believe Judaism, Christianity and Islam have the same origin, each believing in monotheism. dance with the Divine teachings of the Holy Qur’an. How did Muhammad become a Prophet and a Messenger of God? Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) was the last in a chain of Prophets chosen by God. Information Packet Team: Does Islam tolerate other beliefs? Islam is the most tolerant philosophy as the Qur'an rightly says: "There is no compulsion in religion." Imam Syed Naqvi IIC Chairman Rahat Husain Executive Director Tasneem Anjarwalaa Sabira Saiedi Writing Why is the family structure so important to Muslims? Family is the foundation of society, through which society may achieve tranquility. What is the status of women in Islam? Islam believes in the equal status of men and women. As mothers, women are given an even higher status. Our traditions say: “Paradise lies under the feet of your mother.” Farwah Zaidi Production Editor IIC Information Packet Series © Your source for authentic information about Islam and Muslims. www.IslamicInformationCenter.org