THE SITUATION OF SHIA DURING THE CALIPHATE OF IMAM ALI (A.S)

[Taqavi]

 

What was the situation of Shia during the caliphate of Imam Ali (AS)?

 

According to historical reports, during the caliphate of Imam Ali (AS), the Shiites viewed it as a chance to convey the truths and recall the Prophet's testament and Imam's divine succession. Malik Ashtar, on the day of allegiance with Imam Ali (AS), reminded people that Ali (a.s) had been appointed as the Imam and successor by the Messenger of Allah (SAW)[1] and on the same day,  Khuzaymah bin Thabit addressed the people by saying, "We have chosen the one whom the Messenger of Allah (SAW) himself chose for us."[2]

Furthermore, the Shiites supported and assisted Imam Ali (AS) in battles, where they conveyed the truths and called on his army to follow him.[3]

Ammar Yasir was one of those who supported and assisted Imam Ali (AS) in battles as a Shiite. When news spreaded that Ammar was determined to fight against Muawiyah's army, doubts increased in Muawiya's army. Amr ibn al-As requested a meeting with Ammar, who met him with a group in the middle of the army and reminded him of the Prophet's saying, "Whoever I am his master, Ali is also his master." Ammar not only clarified the true position of Imam Ali (AS) but also explained the fallacy and invalidity of the opposing side.[4]

Therefore, during the time of Imam Ali (AS), the Shiites were the core of the Imam's army, representing the Imam's status and position for the people. They were considered a stronghold through which the Imam managed affairs and averted dangers with their support.

 

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[1] . taarikh al-Ya'qoubi; Ahmad ibn Abi Ya'qoub, vol: 2, p: 179.

[2] . al-Ma'yar wa al-Mawazinah fi Fada'il al-Imam Amir al-Mu'minin Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS); al-Iskafi, Abu Ja'far, vol: 1, p: 51.

[3] . sharh Nahj al-Balagha; ibn Abi al-Hadid, vol: 3, p:171.

[4] . Ibid; vol: 8, p: 21.