Hazrat Ali Ibn Abi Talib (R.A) was born in the holiest of places, the Kaaba, on 13th Rajab. At that time, the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) was 30 years old. His mother was Fatima bint Asad, and his father, Abu Talib, was the uncle of the Prophet (S.A.W). Raised in an environment of purity and piety, Hazrat Ali (R.A) grew up under the loving care of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W).
The Prophet (S.A.W) gave Hazrat Ali (R.A) the title of ‘Abu Turab,’ a name he cherished. At the young age of 10, he embraced Islam and was among the first to do so. His upbringing was directly under the guidance of the Prophet (S.A.W), which shaped his character, wisdom, and unwavering faith.
Bravery and Heroism
Islamic history is filled with countless stories of Hazrat Ali’s (R.A) bravery. He played a crucial role in battles such as Badr, Uhud, and Khandaq, where he vanquished renowned warriors of the Quraysh. His sword, ‘Zulfiqar,’ became a symbol of fear for his enemies and a sign of strength for the Muslims.
The Conquest of Khyber
One of Hazrat Ali’s (R.A) most significant achievements was the conquest of Khyber. The Jews had fortified themselves within Khyber’s strongest fortress, Qila Qamoos. Many Muslim warriors attempted to conquer it but were unsuccessful.
One day, the Prophet (S.A.W) declared:
“Tomorrow, I will give the banner to a man who loves Allah and His Messenger, and Allah and His Messenger love him. Allah will grant victory through his hands.”
The next day, the Prophet (S.A.W) called upon Hazrat Ali (R.A), who was suffering from an eye ailment. The Prophet (S.A.W) applied his blessed saliva to Hazrat Ali’s (R.A) eyes, and he was instantly healed. He was then entrusted with the banner and sent to battle.
Hazrat Ali (R.A) reached the gates of the fortress and challenged the Jews’ greatest warrior, Marhab, who arrogantly declared:
“Khyber is protected by a warrior like me!”
Hazrat Ali (R.A) responded with a powerful strike that split Marhab in two, sending shockwaves through the enemy ranks. The Jews retreated into their fortress and locked the gates. Demonstrating unmatched strength, Hazrat Ali (R.A) uprooted the massive door of the fortress and used it as a shield. This act led to the Muslim victory over Khyber, strengthening the Islamic state.
One of the Ten Promised Paradise
Hazrat Ali (R.A) was among the ten companions of the Prophet (S.A.W) who were given the glad tidings of Paradise in their lifetime. The other nine included Hazrat Abu Bakr (R.A), Hazrat Umar (R.A), Hazrat Uthman (R.A), and other great companions. His faith, wisdom, and devotion to Islam earned him a revered status.
Teachings and Sayings
Hazrat Ali (R.A) was known for his deep wisdom and knowledge. His sayings continue to inspire people worldwide:
- “Do not be a slave to others when Allah has created you free.”
- “Health is a blessing that is often overlooked.”
- “Patience is half of faith, just as sorrow is half of old age.”
- “He who desires dignity must avoid hypocrisy.”
- “Value your time before it is lost.”
The Martyrdom of Hazrat Ali (R.A)
On the fateful night of 20th Ramzan, Hazrat Ali (R.A) felt an unusual sense of unease. He repeatedly looked at the sky and said:
“The time of my martyrdom has arrived.”
The following morning, as he entered Masjid-e-Kufa for Fajr prayer, his assassin, Abdur Rehman Ibn Muljim, lay in wait. As Hazrat Ali (R.A) entered the mehrab and began the prayer, Ibn Muljim struck him with a poisoned sword.
The Last Words of Hazrat Ali (R.A)
As he lay wounded, Hazrat Ali (R.A) uttered his final words:
“Fuztu wa Rabbil Ka’ba!”
(By the Lord of the Ka’ba, I have succeeded!)
After three days of suffering, Hazrat Ali (R.A) embraced martyrdom on 21st Ramzan, 40 Hijri. His assassination was a great tragedy for the Muslim world.
His Will and Legacy
Even in his final moments, Hazrat Ali (R.A) instructed justice and fairness. When asked about his assassin, he advised:
“If I survive, I will decide his fate. If I die, ensure he is not tortured but given a fair punishment. Do not commit injustice.”
His legacy remains alive through his teachings, bravery, and unwavering devotion to Islam. He was a beacon of knowledge, justice, and righteousness. His life continues to serve as a guiding light for Muslims worldwide.
Conclusion
Hazrat Ali (R.A) lived a life of sacrifice, wisdom, and unmatched bravery. His martyrdom was a monumental loss for the Muslim Ummah, but his teachings and legacy remain eternal. He stood for justice, faith, and knowledge, leaving behind a rich heritage of Islamic teachings. May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah. Ameen.
