WHY IMAM ALI (AS) DID NOT KILL HIS KILLER

[Taqavi]

If Imam Ali (AS) knew that Ibn Muljam would martyred him, why did he not kill him beforehand?

 

In Imami narrative sources, there are reports indicating that Imam Ali (AS) was aware of his fate and the role of Ibn Muljam al-Muradi in his martyrdom. Among these is a tradition narrated by Hasan bin Mahbub from Asbagh bin Nubata. According to this report, when Ibn Muljam came with others to pledge allegiance (Bay'ah) to Amir al-Mu'minin (AS), the Imam called him back twice after the initial pledge, specifically emphasizing loyalty each time. On the third call, Ibn Muljam asked in surprise: "O Commander of the Faithful, by Allah, I have not seen you do this with anyone else?" In response, the Imam made a poetic allusion to Ibn Muljam's hidden intention, saying: "I desire his life, yet he intends my death." Then, addressing him directly, he added: "O Ibn Muljam, go. By Allah, I do not see you remaining loyal to what you have said."[1]

In another narration, Imam Ali (AS) was faced with a question regarding how to deal with Ibn Muljam. When the Imam indicated that Ibn Muljam would be his killer, those present asked why he did not punish him before he could commit the crime. The Imam replied: "Is there anything more astonishing than suggesting I kill my own assassin before the crime is committed?" [2]

From a legal and theological perspective, this answer is based on the established Islamic principle: "The impermissibility of punishment before the commission of a crime." According to this principle, punishment (including Qisas or retribution) can only be applied after a crime has physically occurred and has been proven in a just court. Any preemptive punishment would itself be an act of oppression and contrary to Divine justice.

Despite knowing his assassin and the exact time and place of his martyrdom, Imam Ali (AS) took no preemptive measures. Hasan bin Jahm narrates that he discussed this issue with Imam Reza (AS), saying: "Amir al-Mu'minin (AS) knew his killer and knew on which night and at what location he would be martyred. Even when he heard the sound of the ducks in the house, he remarked: 'These are cries followed by the wailing of mourners.' Furthermore, when Umm Kulthum suggested he stay home that night and send someone else to lead the congregational prayer, he refused. Despite his knowledge of Ibn Muljam's intent, he continued his routine without a weapon."

Imam Reza (AS) explained in response that while this foreknowledge was indeed correct, Amir al-Mu'minin (AS) was also given the choice between remaining in this world and meeting his Lord. He consciously chose the latter so that the Divine Decree would be fulfilled. [3] This narration demonstrates that even with certain knowledge of an event, the Imam emphasized human choice and submission to Allah’s Will, strictly avoiding any action that fell outside the framework of Sharia and justice.

Conclusion:

Based on Imami narrations, Amir al-Mu'minin Ali (AS) was aware of his assassin and the time of his martyrdom, yet he took no preemptive action. This behavior is rooted in the fundamental Islamic principle of justice, which forbids punishment before a crime is actually committed. Furthermore, despite this foreknowledge, the Imam voluntarily accepted this destiny out of submission and satisfaction with the Divine Decree (Qada).

 

 

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[1] . Al-Irshad, Al-Shaykh al-Mufid, Vol: 1, p. 12.

[2] . Basa'ir al-Darajat, Al-Saffar al-Qummi, Muhammad bin al-Hasan, 109.

[3] . Al-Kafi, Al-Shaykh al-Kulayni, Vol. 1, p. 259.