(www.thenewslark.com)
By: Syed Karrar Hussain (retired)
On that sorrowful day, it seemed as if the heavens themselves were in mourning. The angels were lamenting in grief. The earth felt as though it was trembling with shock. The atmosphere was filled with sorrow and silence. It is said that even animals showed unusual distress; cattle refused to feed their young, and birds cried loudly as if sharing in the grief of the world. It was the day when one of the greatest personalities in Islamic history, Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), was martyred.
In the history of Islam, certain personalities stand as perfect examples of faith, knowledge, courage, justice, and humanity. Among them, Hazrat Ali (RA) occupies a unique and unmatched position. His life, from the earliest days of Islam until his caliphate, is filled with sacrifices, bravery, wisdom, and a deep commitment to justice. The 21st of Ramadan is remembered as one of the most tragic days in Islamic history because it was on this day that this great leader of humanity was martyred in the Mosque of Kufa.
Hazrat Ali (RA) had the honor of being closely related to the Holy Prophet Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and was raised under the direct care and guidance of the Prophet. From childhood, he grew up in the household of the Prophet, which profoundly shaped his character and personality. His conduct, knowledge, and spiritual strength reflected the teachings and morals of the Prophet himself. For this reason, Hazrat Ali is widely recognized as the first male to accept Islam. At a time when accepting Islam in Makkah meant risking persecution and even death, Hazrat Ali (RA) openly and courageously embraced the message of the Prophet.
During the early years of Islam, Muslims faced severe oppression from the leaders of Makkah. The enemies of Islam used every possible method to suppress the new faith. It was during this difficult time that the historic event of the Hijrah (migration) took place. When the Prophet (PBUH) was commanded by Allah to migrate to Madinah, the leaders of the Quraysh plotted to assassinate him. At this critical moment, Hazrat Ali (RA) demonstrated extraordinary courage and loyalty. He slept in the bed of the Prophet on the night of migration so that the enemies would believe that the Prophet was still in his house. Hazrat Ali was fully aware that the attackers might strike at any moment, yet he risked his life without hesitation in order to protect the Messenger of Allah.
The bravery of Hazrat Ali (RA) on the battlefield is legendary. In the Battle of Badr, the first major confrontation between Muslims and the forces of disbelief, Hazrat Ali displayed remarkable courage. Historical accounts mention that he defeated many of the leading warriors of the enemy, playing a crucial role in the victory of the Muslims. His valor helped strengthen the morale of the believers and established his reputation as one of the bravest warriors of Islam.
In the Battle of Uhud, when the situation became extremely critical and many fighters had temporarily left their positions, the Prophet (PBUH) found himself surrounded by enemies. At that dangerous moment, Hazrat Ali (RA) remained firmly by the side of the Prophet along with a few loyal companions. He fought bravely and defended the Prophet with unwavering determination. His loyalty and courage during this battle became a shining example in Islamic history.
Another remarkable moment of his bravery occurred during the Battle of the Trench (Khandaq). In this battle, the famous and feared Arab warrior Amr ibn Abd Wudd crossed the trench and challenged the Muslims to single combat. The challenge created fear among many warriors, but Hazrat Ali stepped forward. After a fierce duel, he defeated Amr ibn Abd Wudd. The Prophet (PBUH) is reported to have praised this act of bravery, emphasizing the immense value of Hazrat Ali’s courage and dedication to the cause of Islam.
The Battle of Khaybar also stands as a glorious chapter in the life of Hazrat Ali (RA). When the strong fortress of Khaybar proved difficult to conquer, the Prophet (PBUH) declared that the banner would be given to a man who loved Allah and His Messenger, and whom Allah and His Messenger loved. The next day, this honor was given to Hazrat Ali. Carrying the banner of Islam, he entered the battlefield and defeated the powerful Jewish warrior Marhab. His courage led to the conquest of Khaybar and brought a historic victory for the Muslims.
Hazrat Ali (RA) was not only a fearless warrior but also a great scholar and a fountain of wisdom. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) once said: “I am the city of knowledge and Ali is its gate.” This statement highlights the immense knowledge and intellectual depth of Hazrat Ali. He possessed profound understanding of the Qur’an, Islamic law, justice, and spiritual wisdom. Many later developments in Islamic jurisprudence and philosophy were influenced by his teachings and insights.
Hazrat Ali also enjoyed a deeply honored family relationship with the Prophet. He was the husband of Hazrat Fatimah al-Zahra (RA), the beloved daughter of the Prophet, who is known as the leader of the women of Paradise. He was the father of Imam Hasan (RA) and Imam Husayn (RA), who are described in Islamic tradition as the leaders of the youth of Paradise. He was also the father of Hazrat Zainab (RA), the courageous daughter who later played a historic role after the tragedy of Karbala by standing against injustice in the courts of Kufa and Damascus.
Another important moment highlighting the status of Hazrat Ali occurred at Ghadir Khumm, when the Prophet (PBUH), returning from his farewell pilgrimage, addressed a large gathering of pilgrims. He raised the hand of Hazrat Ali and declared: “For whoever I am the master, Ali is also his master.” This statement emphasized the special respect, love, and closeness that Hazrat Ali held in the eyes of the Prophet.
During his caliphate, Hazrat Ali became a symbol of justice, humility, and service to humanity. He ruled with fairness and ensured that public wealth was used for the welfare of the people. He was known to walk through the streets at night to identify the needs of the poor, widows, and orphans. Many times he personally carried sacks of flour on his shoulders to deliver food to needy families, ensuring that their dignity remained protected.
One of the most extraordinary examples of his character is seen in his treatment of his assassin. After being attacked and when his attacker, Abdur Rahman ibn Muljam, was captured, Hazrat Ali instructed his sons to treat him humanely. He ordered that the prisoner be given the same food and drink that was provided to the family. According to historical accounts, he was even offered sherbet. This remarkable act reflected the moral greatness, mercy, and humanity of Hazrat Ali.
On the morning of the 19th of Ramadan in the year 40 AH, while Hazrat Ali was offering the Fajr prayer in the Mosque of Kufa, Abdur Rahman ibn Muljam struck him with a poisoned sword as part of a anti Islam conspiracy. The wound was severe, and after suffering for two days, Hazrat Ali (RA) embraced martyrdom.
The martyrdom of Hazrat Ali was an immense loss for Islam and humanity. He was not only a great Caliph and leader but also a symbol of justice, courage, knowledge, and righteousness. His life remains a guiding light for Muslims across the world.
Today, when Muslims remember the martyrdom of Hazrat Ali on the 21st of Ramadan, it should not only be a moment of mourning but also a time for reflection. His teachings remind us of the importance of justice, knowledge, courage, compassion, and devotion to truth. If these values are adopted in our individual and collective lives, society can move toward peace, harmony, and fairness.
The life of Hazrat Ali (RA) was, in essence, a living reflection of the true message of Islam. His martyrdom reminds us that the path of truth and justice often requires patience and sacrifice. Yet history always honors those who stand firmly for righteousness.
Indeed, the 21st of Ramadan is not merely a historical date; it is a day that reminds us of the noble character, sacrifices, and timeless principles of Hazrat Ali (RA). His martyrdom was a profound loss for Islam and humanity, but his teachings and legacy will continue to illuminate the path of justice and humanity for generations to come.
