ՙAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib
ՙAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib was a prominent figure in early Islamic history, known for his close relationship with the Prophet Muḥammad, being his first cousin and son-in-law through his marriage to Fāṭima. An early convert to Islam, he served as a trusted adviser and was recognized for his military leadership. After the Prophet's death in 632 CE, ՙAlī entered into a contentious succession dispute with the first caliph, Abū Bakr, claiming that he had been chosen by Muḥammad as his rightful successor. Although he initially withdrew from political life, he later became the fourth caliph in 656 CE. His tenure was marked by significant political challenges, including civil strife and rival claims to leadership, particularly from Muՙāwiyah I. Ultimately, his reign ended in 661 CE with his assassination, which facilitated the rise of the Umayyad caliphate. ՙAlī's legacy profoundly influenced the development of Shīՙism, a branch of Islam that regards him and his descendants as the rightful leaders, or imāms, of the Muslim community. His life and contributions continue to be revered, with many Shīՙites viewing him as a key figure in their faith.
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Subject Terms
ՙAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib
Related civilizations: Byzantium, Persia
Major role/position: Fourth caliph
Life
The prophet Muḥammad’s first cousin and son-in-law through his marriage to Fāṭima, ՙAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib (a-LEE ihb-uhn AB-i tuh-LIHB) was an early convert to Islam, a close adviser of the Prophet, and an inspiring military leader.
Following Muḥammad’s death in 632 c.e., ՙAlī became embroiled in a succession dispute with the first caliph, Abū Bakr. Claiming that the Prophet had selected him as the rightful successor, ՙAlī contested Abū Bakr’s election. Disgruntled by his rejection, ՙAlī abstained from politics until his own selection as fourth caliph in 656 c.e.
ՙAlī’s caliphate was marred by political discord, sporadic rebellions, and full-scale civil war. Increasingly isolated by political blunders, ՙAlī proved unable to prevent the rise of a rival caliphate headed by Muՙāwiyah I. The issue was resolved in Muՙāwiyah’s favor in 661 c.e. when ՙAlī was assassinated.
Influence
ՙAlī’s political shortcomings led to the establishment of the Umayyad caliphate centered in Damascus. He also inspired the Shīՙite branch of Islam, which maintains that the true successors (imāms) of Muḥammad must be tied to him by consanguinity. Most Shīՙites see ՙAlī as an avenue to salvation, and some extremists have deified him.
Bibliography
Chirri, M. J. The Brother of the Prophet Muḥammad (The Imām ՙAlī). Qum, Iran: Ansanyan, 1996.
Jafri, J. H. M. The Origins and Early Development of Shi’i Islam. London: Longman, 1979.