Ali Ibn Abi Talib - Volume 1 of 2

CHAPTER THREE
The Oath of Allegiance to
'Ali (&), the most important
of his characteristics and
his way of life in society
1. The oath of allegiance to 'Ali (&)
1.1. How allegiance was sworn to 'Ali (&)
o n Friday, 18 Dhul-Wjjah 35 AH,' the Rightly Guided
Caliph 'Uthmin ibn 'Af& (&) was martyred at the hands of outlaw
rebels, who killed him (&) unlawfully and wrongfully. They had
come from various regions and various tribes that were not known for
any service to Islam or any good achievement in this world. After
this, all of the Companions of the Messenger of Allah (g) who were
left in Madinah swore allegiance to 'Ali (&) as caliph. There was no
one better than him at that time, so no one else claimed leadership
after 'Uthmk (&). 'Ali (&), the father of the two grandsons of the
Prophet (&), was not eager for it, and he only accepted it after strong
urging from those of the Companions who were left in Madinah, for
fear that the tribulations might increase and spread further. Despite
that, he was not spared the criticism of some ignorant people as the
result of turmoil that took place later on, such as the battles of the
Camel and Siffeen, the flames of which were fanned by those who