HAZRAT ABU BAKR

Q 1: Describe an account of services of Hazrat Abu Bakr during Prophet Life.

Hazrat Abu Bakr, one of the early converts to Islam, was the first among the free men
who accepted Islam without any reluctance and delay.
After acceptance of Islam, he acted as a great missionary and preacher of Islam. Through
his efforts, many young men among the Quraish became Muslims like Talha, Zubair, Usman,
Abu Obaidah etc. When slaves like Bilal, who had accepted Islam, were tortured by their
masters, Abu Bakr used to purchase them and set them free.
After “Miraj”, Abu Bakr confirmed the statement of Prophet and he gave him the title of
“al-Siddiq” testifier of truth.
In 622 AD, when the Prophet (PBUH) migrated to Yasrib, Abu Bakr was his companion.
Both friends eluded the Quraish by hiding in the cave at mount Thawr. They passed three days
and nights in the “cave of thawr”
“For Allah did indeed help him, when the unbelievers drove him out, he had no more
than one companion, they were two in the caves”.
He supported Islam financially as well. At Medina, when the Prophet (PBUH) purchased
a land of two orphans for the construction of Mosque, Abu Bakr (RA) paid its cost. In 9 A.H,
when Holy Prophet (PBUH) asked for contributions in Tabuk expedition,Abu Bakr (RA)
donated all, what he possessed and said that Allah & the Prophet (PBUH) are enough for his
family.
He played active role in the battles. In battle of Badr, Abu Bakr (RA) acted as a body
guard of the Prophet. At Uhad, when there was confusion in the Muslim Army, he was the first
to join the Prophet. At Hunain, when the other companions dispersed, he continued to attend to
the Prophet (PBUH). At the time of treaty of Hudaibiya, he showed his unstinting support for the
Prophet.
He remained the Chief-Counseller of Holy Prophet (PBUH) and was appointed as
Ameer-e-Hajj in 9 A.H, when the Prophet (PBUH) sent 300 companions to perform Hajj. He
also became Imam to lead congregational prayer and led seventeen 17 prayers during Prophet’s
illness.
For all these services Abu Bakr holds a unique position in Islamic History.
Q 2: Describe an account of services of Abu Bakr to Islam as a caliph.
Q 3: Describe an account of main events of caliphate period of Abu Bakr.
Q 4: How did Abu Bakr protected Islamic state within Arabia?
At the death of the Prophet, he exercised remarkable self-control. He brought a sense of
order to the gathering of confused and sorrowful Muslims by his frank words
“If anyone worships Muhammad, Muhammad is dead. If anyone worships Allah,
Allah is alive”.
At the meeting that followed to elect a leader of the community, he persuaded the Ansars
to relinquish khilafat in favour of Quraish. He was elected by the unanimous support of
Muhajirin and Ansar.
He confronted many problems after assuming the charge of Caliphate. To continue with
the plan of Prophet, he, against the opinion of other companions, sent Muslim army to Syria.
This step of Abu Bakr strengthened Muslims courage, suppressed rebels and secured Syrian
borders.
 Some tribes like Banu Asad, Banu Ghatfan, Banu Murrah refused to send taxes to
Madinah. But he did not agree with them and soon crushed them in a battle which he himself
participated.
Apostasy (Ridda) movement was another threat to Islamic state. Without delay Abu Bakr
launched campaigns against this (Ridda) Apostasy Movement. He collected the troops of Medina
and divided them into eleven battalions. After placing each battalion under an experienced
commander, they were sent into different parts of Arabia like Najd, Central Arabia, Yemen,
Hadramawt, Uman, Mahra, Bahrayn, Banu Sulaym, Hawazin, Tahyma. Whithin a year, the
control of Islam was re established throughout the peninsula.
After the death of Prophet (PBUH), a host of imposters including Musailima in
Yamamah, Aswad Ansi in Yemen, Tulaha among tribes of Asad and Ghatfan , Sajjah among
Tamim started appearing in different parts of the country. They claimed to be ‘Prophet’ and the
‘Apostles’ of Allah as they found the Prophetic office quite profitable. The situation was
extremely difficult as the ill literate people of Arabia started believing those cunning liars. But
Abu Bakr did not lose heart and courageously stood against them. Musailma was killed in Battle
of Garden of death. Aswad al-Ansi was also killed. Tulayha faced Muslims in battle of Buzakha
but escaped to Syria and accepted Islam when Syria was conquered. Sajjah accepted Islam when
Iraq was conquered.
He also took bold steps in expansion of Islamic state. He conquered and recaptured many
territories. He led campaigns in Iraq and Syria and captured Mazar, Walaja, Ulleis, Hira, En-at-
Tamr, Basra, Ajnadein, Hafir, Mesopotamia, Anbar, Kazmia, Antioch and Damascus.
The most important service of the first caliph was the preservation of holy Quran. On the
suggestion of Umar, Abu Bakr commissioned Zayd bin Thabit to collect the scattered recordings
of the Quran and compiled them in the form of a book. It was after the battle of Yamama in
which 300 Quran reciters had lost their lives. Zaid collected holy Quran from pieces of papyrus,
flat stones, palm leaves, the shoulder-blades and ribs of animals, pieces of leather and wooden
boards, as well as from hearts of men. He copied the revelations on sheets.
After a turbulent period of two years, Abu Bakr passed away in 13AH/634AD.
For all these services Abu Bakr holds a unique place in the history of Islam.

Q 5: Describe an account of problems faced by Abu Bakr as a caliph.

After the death of Hazrat Muhammad, the situation of the Muslims was similar to the
flock of sheep without a shepherd, when Abu Bakr was given the office of Caliphate.
From the very first day of his Caliphate he found himself surrounded with difficulties and
dangers. However he performed every duty with great courage and loyalty, being sincere and
faithful towards Islam. The problems which arose in front of Abu Bakr were changing the shape
of Islamic teachings.
The first task was sending of Usama’s army to Syria to continue the plan of Holy
Prophet. He sent this army showing firmness and determination. This step of Abu Bakr proved
very important as it strengthened Muslims courage, suppressed rebels and secured Syrian borders
Another problem was nonpayment of Zakat movement. The outlying provinces who had
accepted Islam shortly before the Holy Prophet’s death were the first to cause trouble. The
payment of Zakat was a burden on their pockets. They told the Caliph that they would retain
Islam if only they were allowed to go on without paying Zakat. But Abu Bakar did not agree
with them and soon crushed them in the battle, saving an important right of poor and needy.
 Another serious problem was of false prophets. After the death of Prophet, a host of
imposters including Musailima in Yamamah, Aswad Ansi in Yemen, Tulaha among tribes of
Asad and Ghatfan, Sajjah among Tamim started appearing in different parts of the country. They
claimed to be ‘Prophet’ and the ‘Apostles’ of Allah as they found the Prophetic office quite
profitable. The situation was extremely difficult as the ill literate people of Arabia started
believing those cunning liars. But Abu Bakr did not lose heart and courageously stood against
them. Musailma was killed in Battle of Garden of death. Aswad al-Ansi was also killed. Tulayha
faced Muslims in battle of Buzakha but escaped to Syria and accepted Islam when Syria was
conquered. Sajjah accepted Islam when Iraq was conquered.
Other than these problems and difficulties the short Caliphate of Abu Bakr was mostly
occupied with the so-called Ridda (apostasy) wars. The death of Holy Prophet led a section of
people to raise the standard of rebellion against the Islamic policy of Medina and renounced or
apostatized Islam. The movement led by those people was known as the Apostasy movement.
Without delay Abu Bakr launched a campaign against this movement. He collected the troops of
Medina and divided them into eleven battalions. After placing each battalion under an
experienced commander they were sent into different parts of Arabia. The victories over the
rebel tribes paved the way for the advance of Islam, giving new hopes and encouragements to the
Muslims for future.
The calm judgment, determination, firmness and sagacity of Abu Bakr solved all
problems. For all his services towards Islam Abu Bakr is usually titled as the “Saviour of Islam”.
Abu Bakr took the office of Caliphate at the most critical and crucial moment of Islamic history.
He brought unity amongst the Muslims and put an end to the rebellions at home. Abu Bakr not
only saved Islam from disruption but made it a powerful religion.

Q 6: Why is he called saviour of Islam?

After the death of holy Prophet, the situation of the Muslims was similar to the flock of
sheep without a shepherd. Abu Bakr was elected first caliph of Islam.
From the very first day of his Caliphate he found himself surrounded with difficulties and
dangers. However he performed every duty with great courage and loyalty, being sincere and
faithful towards Islam. The problems which arose in front of Abu Bakr were changing the shape
of Islamic teachings. He sent Usama’s army showing firmness and determination. The victory of
this army strengthened Muslims courage, suppressed rebels and secured Syrian borders.
He crushed the power of false prophets and saved the solidarity of Muslim Ummah under
one banner of Islam.
He dealt with apostasy movement with iron hands. All affected areas were recaptured by
Muslim forces.
He preserved the Holy Quran after its compilation under his supervision. Due to his
determination, he saved Islam and Islamic state from all threats within a short span of time. Due
to these services, he is called saviour of Islam.

Q 7: Describe an account of Campaigns and Conquests in Caliphate period of Hazrat Abu

Bakr.
Hazrat Abu Bakr became the first caliph of Islam after the Prophet’s death. He
confronted many problems and difficulties. The first task for him, was to send the expedition to
Syria under Usman bin Zayd. He, against the opinion of many companions, dispatched the
expedition as it was already ordered by the Prophet himself. In 632 A.D. Muslim army left
Medina and returned within 40 days, after a glorious triumph over Byzantines in Syria.
After this, Abu Bakr had to face a series of apostasy uprisings in different parts of Arabia.
For this purpose, he divided the troops in 11 battalions. He appointed experienced commanders
and sent campaigns in different areas like Bahrain, Oman, Mahra, and Hadramaut .These areas
were recaptured by Muslim forces.
Abu Bakr crushed the power of false Prophets, Aswad Ansi in Yemen, Musailma in
Yamama, Tulayha in Northern areas, Sajjah in Iraq. Battle of Yamama and Buzakha were fought
against Musailima and Tulayha.
Abu Bakr continued the policy of expansion of Islamic state. Against Persian forces,
battle of Mazar, Walja, Ulleis and En -at -Tamr were fought. With conquest of Hira, whole
central Iraq came under the rule of Muslims. Anbar and En-al-Tamr were also captured.
In 634 A.D. Hazrat Abu Bakr called for Jihad on the Syrian front. Khalid bin Walid, who
had returned from Hira, was also ordered to help the Muslims armies in Syria. On the way to
Damascus, some skirmishes took place in which Muslims were successful.
Against Byzantine forces, battle of Basra, Ajnadein were fought and areas were captured.
These campaigns and conquests paved a way to complete fall down of Persian and Byzantine
empires later on.
 HAZRAT UMAR FAROOQ
Q 8: Describe an account of services of Hazrat Umar during Prophet life.
Hazrat Umar son of Khattab, second caliph was born at Mecca. He has common
ancestors with Holy Prophet in Kaab. His conversion to Islam boosted the Muslims’ morale and
gave them some protection against the Quraish. One Muslim said,
“We could not pray at Kaaba until he became a Muslim”.
He migrated to Yasrib openly. At the time of migration, he challenged Meccans to stop
him but none stood up. He participated in different battles fought by Muslims. He was one of
them who made the defensive ring around the prophet at the battle of Uhad, and who dug the
trench at the battle of Ahzab. He played an important role in battle of Hunain.
He was not ready to accept treaty of Hudaibiyah as it seemed to him a most humiliating
one on the part of the Muslims. But at last he had to submit to the will of Prophet who consoled
him with a Divine message. He participated in the battle of Khyber. In 8 A.H he took part in the
march to Mecca.
He placed half of his house hold things at the disposal of the Prophet on the occasion of
the Tabuk expeditions as contribution towards the war fund. He remained chief-counselor of
Holy Prophet (PBUH).
Services after Prophet life before becoming caliph.
After death of Prophet, people of Medina assembled at council hall to elect the leader. He
was the first who showed allegiance to Abu Bakr as a first caliph. In reign of Abu Bakr, he was
his counselor and persuaded Abu Bakr for preservation of Holy Quran.

Q 9: Describe an account of services of Hazrat Umar to Islam as a caliph.

Q 10: Describe an account of main events of caliphate period of Hazrat Umar
During last sickness, Abu Bakr after consulting members of his Majlis-e-Shoora and
general Muslims, nominated Umar as Caliph in 634 A.D. All the eminent companions pledged
allegiance to him.
He formed an effective system of government. He framed the constitution of the state on
the basis of democracy supported by Majlis-e-Shoora.
For the convenience of administration, Umar (RA) divided the Empire into eight
provinces i,e, Mecca, Medina, Jazira, Basra, Kufa, Egypt, Syria and Palestine. Each province
was placed under an efficient governor called ‘Amir’ or ‘Wali’ which was also the military &
religious head. for his administration to Khalifa. The provinces were again divided into districts
and the district officer was called the Amil. The Caliph watched the movement of officers
through the help of
spies.
He expanded the Islamic State during 634 A.D to 642 A.D by conquering Persian ,
Roman and Syrian Empire. He fought the battles of Namaraq, Buwaib, Bridge, Qadsiya ,Jalula
and Yarmuk. The Muslim armies were victorious at Yarmuk in Palestine in 15AH/636AD
against the Byzantine, opening up Syria; at Al Qadisiyya in 17ah/638AD against the Sassanians ,
opening up Iraq; at Nahawand in 21AH/642AD also against the Sassanians, opening up Persia
He made many social reforms. New cities like Kufa, Basra and Fustat were built
according to properly drawn up plans.
He also established the department of police and jail. He bought the house of Safwan bin
Umayyah for 4000 dirhams and converted it into a jail.
 Hazrat Umar separated Judiciary from the Executive. He fixed high salaries of his
Judges, e.g Salman, Rabiah and Qazi Shuriah were each paid 500 dirhams per month. A Dewan
was established for collection of all types of revenue. New taxes like Ushr, Zakat on ownership
of horses, were established. For education, he deputed different well-learned companions of the
Holy Prophet (PBUH) to educate the people. He introduced Muslim Era of Hijrah. He introduced
the system of old-age pension. He gave allowances for week and the poor. He organized
consensus and survey of land.
Umar established big military centres at Medina, Kufa, Basra, Mosal, Fustat, Damascus,
Jorden and Palestine. He arranged regular and reserved Army.
He returned the lands to its actual owners. New lands were brought under cultivation in a very
short time. Irrigation canals were excavated in conquered lands i,e. Abu Musa canal, Ma’aqal
canal, Sa’ad canal and Ameer-ul-Mominin canal. A department for the construction of dams was
organized.
He made remarkable services to Islam. It is said,
“The dignity of slam has shrouded in the grave of Umar”

Q 11: How did Umar expanded slamic state outside Arabia

Q 12: Describe an account of battles and Conquests in caliphate period of
Hazrat Umar.
Peaceful environment which was created after the removal of all the internal and external
problems by Hazrat Abu Bakr provided opportunity to Umar for expansion of Islamic state
outside Arabia. Hazrat Umar after assuming the office of caliphate, paid full attention to the
expansion of the Muslim state outside Arabia. He expanded the Islamic State during 634 A.D to
642 A.D by conquering Persian, Roman and Syrian Empire. He fought the battles of Namaraq,
Buwaib, Bridge, Qadisiya, Jalula and Yarmuk. The Muslim armies were victorious at Yarmuk in
Palestine in 15AH/636AD against the Byzantine, opening up Syria; at Al Qadisiyya in
17AH/638AD against the Sassanians, opening up Iraq; at Nahawand in 21AH/642AD also
against the Sassanians, opening up Persia The battle of Namarraq was the first conflict against
Persia. Persian army was defeated and this was the first victory of the Muslims against Persians.
After defeat of Persians in battle of Namarraq, they again met Muslims in the same year
634 A.D at the bank of Euphrates. Muslim commander crossed the Euphrates Bridge. Due to this
mistake, Muslims faced crushing defeat from Persians in this battle of Bridge.
After this battle both armies encamped at Buwaib. Muslim army conflicted a crushing
defeat on the Persian forces. Battle of Qadisiyya was one of the decisive battles between
Muslims and Persians. The battle lasted for three days and finally Muslims conflicted a
devastating defeat on the Persian forces. After the battle of Jalula, peace was concluded with
the Persians and there was no fighting for few months but the Persians broke the treaty and
gathered a large army against Muslims at Nahawand. This battle was the decisive one and
Muslims were victorious in this battle. With this victory of Nehawand, whole Persia was under
the banner of Islam.
Hazrat Umar side by side started his mission of expanding Islamic state waging wars
against Byzantine forces and conquered the empires of Egypt, Syria and Jerusalem.
The first battle was fought against Byzantine Empire was the battle of Yurmuk .This battle
lasted for 6 days and finally the Muslims remained victorious by conflicting overwhelming
defeat on the Persian forces.
 After battle of Yurmuk, Muslim forces spread in all directions and conquered many
towns that cleared the way to Jerusalem. The city of Jerusalem was strongly fortified, the
Muslim army laid siege to Jerusalem. The people of the city offered capitulate on the condition
that the caliph of the Islamic state should himself sign the treaty of peace. According to
treaty,people of Jerusalem accepted to pay the jizya.
Instantaneously after the fall of Jerusalem Amr Bin Aas, with the permission of Hazrat
Umar set out for Egypt. After fierce battle, Egypt was conquered with the fall of Alexandria.
With subjugation of the Egypt the whole Byzantine Empire was brought under Muslim
control.
In short, it was due to the extraordinary personality and conduct of Umar that the brilliant
conquest not only widened the Islamic state but also inaugurated a new era in the history of
world. It was due to his dexterity and ability that he remained almost successful and dominant in
his mission of the expansion of the Islamic state outside Arabia.
 HAZRAT USMAN
Q 13: Describe an account of services of Hazrat Usman during Prophet life
Hazrat Usman bin Affan, third caliph, was born at Macca in Ummayads tribe. He was
one of those who accepted Islam at the hands of Abu Bakr when he was 34 years old. He faced
persecution as his uncle tied him with rope and beat him.
He participated in both the migrations Abyssinia and Medina. He accompanied his wife
Ruquyya in migration to Abyssinia. During stay at Mecca, he spent freely in the way of God and
liberated some Muslim slaves.
He used his influence to ensure that there should be no break in the supply of provisions
to besieged persons of social boycott at Mecca. He participated in all the battles fought during
Prophet’s life except the battle of Badr because at that time, his wife, Ruqqaya, fell ill and
Prophet (PBUH) advised him to look after her.
He helped Muslims and Islam financially. He spent 20,000 dirhams to buy a well (Ber-e-
Ruma) for drinking water and offered it to Muslims. He contributed to expand the mosque of the
Prophet (PBUH). At the eve of Tabuk expedition he contributed 1000 gold denar and 300
camels.
The Prophet said:
“From today Usman’s no action will harm him”.
Before the treaty of Hudaibiyah he was sent to the Quraish at Mecca to negotiate for
peace. He was also present at the time of conquest of Mecca. At farewell sermon he performed
the duty of escorting Prophet wives.
Services after Prophet life before becoming caliph
He was the second person who took allegiance at the hands of Abu Bakr to accept him as
a Caliph. One more great service done by Usman was in Umar’s regime. When there was famine
in Umar’s regime, he distributed entire stock of food grains.

Q 14: Describe an account of services of Hazrat Usman to Islam as a caliph.

Q 15: Describe an account of main events of caliphate period of Hazrat Usman.
When Hazrat Umar was at the deathbed, he left election of his successor to a council of
Ali, Usman, Sa’ad, Talha, Zubair and Abdur Rahman bin Auf. Finally, Usman was elected as a
third Caliph in 24 A.H. Everyone took the Oath of allegiance to Usman.
After his succession, the Persians and the Romans thought that it would be easy to wrest
control of territories from the kindhearted Usman. There were several uprisings in Persia in the
East and Byzantine in the west. He tackled the situation with firmness. He organized military
campaigns with great skills. Within first year of his Caliphate, he was able to crush all the
revolts. Muslims also conquered some new areas and expanded Islamic State.
Expeditions were sent to Asia Minor and territories between Antioch and Sarnus were
conquered. Regular military expeditions started in North Africa and Tripoli was conquered. Later
on, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Khurasan, Neishapur, Seistan and Kabul were captured.
Muslim forces fought Naval war. The Island of Cyprus was captured.
Hazrat Usman made extraordinary social reforms. He regrouped some of the provinces
and maintained Majlis-e-Shoora .He started holding periodic conferences of District authorities
to hear public complaints after Friday prayers.
He relaxed the strict laws of Hazrat Umar by allowing Arabs to acquire lands in
conquered areas. He made extensions to the Masjid-e-Nabwi and constructed new mosques,
ordered construction of inns, border outposts and guest houses. He made arrangement to supply
travelers with water by having wells dug near roads, built dam to protect Medina from floods,
raised the salaries of officers and armed forces, and raised allowances paid to people by 25%. He
sent religious teachers to India to spread Islam.
With expansion of Islamic state, Commanders of Muslim forces soon discovered that
soldiers from different places were reciting the Quran in different ways.
Huzaifa bin Yamman approached to Hazrat Usman and requested him to take immediate
action for the removal of those differences, otherwise it might be the cause of rifts among the
Muslims.
Hazrat Usman commissioned Zaid bin Sabit to make an accurate collection of the
revelation. Zaid was assisted by other knowledgeable companions. Finally, they compared this
standardized copy with Mushaf-e-Hafsa. Other versions, which differed in any way, were
destroyed. Hazrat Usman ordered a number of copies of this authoritative collection to be made
and had them sent to major cities of the empire.
This short span of good time was immediately followed by a dangerous wave of
dissension and disruption. There were several allegations against the caliph Usman. He was
alleged that he had appointed his own kinsmen to high posts by removing the efficient officials
and governors. This allegation was baseless.
Hazrat Muawiya, Syrian governor, was the relative of Usman but was appointed by
Umar. Abdullah bin Saad, Egyptian governor, was the foster brother of Usman.
He was able ruler and conquered North Africa. Walid bin Uqba, replaced Saad bin abi
Waqas in Kufa when he could not control the situation. He conducted successful campaigns in
Armenia and Azerbaijan. Squandering of the public money, reservation of the state pastures for
his own camels and burning of Quran were other baseless allegation. Hazrat Usman gave
convincing reply of all these allegations.
Abdullah bin Saba, a Jew of Yemen was conspirating against Usman in Kufa, Basra,
Egypt and other areas. By his propaganda Muslims began to differ in religious matters. As a
result of this revolt, Hazrat Usman was martyred.
 HAZRAT ALI

Q. Give an account of services of Hazrat Ali to Islam during Prophet life.

Hazrat Ali was son of Prophet’s uncle and foster father Abu Talib. His surname was Abu
Turab and came of the clan of Banu Hashim. He was born in the 28th year of Elephants. Holy
Prophet took Ali in his own protection and cares to relieve Abu Talib of some of his burden.
When Holy Prophet called people to accept his mission, Ali was among the foremost few who
responded to his call and accepted Islam at the age of only 10 years.
Hazrat Ali was person who took the risk of sleeping in bed of prophet on night of Hijrah
in 622 A.D. when prophet was surrounded by enemies. He successfully accomplished his
mission of returning all items which prophet had been holding in his trust for their owners. He
joined his cousin on his way to Madina at Quba outside Madina.
When emigrants of Makkah were paired with helpers of Madina, Ali was paired with
Hazrat Muhammadpbuh himself. Hazrat Muhammad said to him, “You are my brother in this
world and the next.”
He took part in almost all the battles fought during period of Holy Prophet and
distinguished himself as fierce warrior. Hazrat Ali shared camel with Holy Prophet on the way to
Badr and discovered the enemies’movement. Before the battle he was one of the three Muslims
who engaged in single combat and killed his opponent. He was chosen to carry Muslim banner
into battle where he killed many Quraish.
At battle of Uhud in 3A.H/625A.D Ali was given Muslim banner. He was one of the
Muslims who made defensive ring around prophet after he was wounded. He defeated his foe in
single combat at battle of Khandaq in 5A.H/627A.D and was among the leader in the siege of
Jewish tribe of Banu Quraiza. He wrote treaty of Hudaibiya and was one of the witnesses to it.
Hazrat Ali courageously used a door as shield at Khyber in 7A.H/629A.D and turned the tide of
battle in twinkling of eyes. At Muslim entry in Makkah in 8A.D/630A.H he once again carried the
Muslim banner. He defended the Holy prophet at Hunayn.
At time of Tabuk expedition in 9A.H/631A.D he stayed at Medina as deputy with Prophet
order. He was commander of Muslim forces to Fadak and Yemen where he, for the first time
preached Islam in Yemen. After prophet’s demise Hazrat Ali washed his body and buried it in
Hazrat Ayesha apartment.

Q. Give an account of main events during caliphate period of Hazrat Ali.

Caliphate period of Hazrat Ali (36-41 A.H) is full of differences, battles and clashes. He
found the caliphate on bed of roses. After his charge as a caliph, the cry of revenge from
assassins of Usman was resounded in every corner of Arabia.
Hazrat Ali delayed the revenge due to lack of evidence and instability in the state. Talha
and Zubair were discontented with this delay. They contacted Ayesha, the Prophet Widow, who
herself was deeply grieved at Uthman’s murder. Talha and Zubair raised an army and persuaded
Ayesha to accompany them. Hazrat Ali’s son, Hassan, also managed to raise an Army of 10,000
from Kufa. The two armies met at Basra in 656 A.D. Ali assured Aishah that he will punish the
murderers at proper time. As both parties did not want bloodshed, negotiations were started and
hostilities were suspended. Mischief makers from both armies were alarmed as peace meant their
own doom.
 After peaceful agreement, both armies slept. At night Mischief makers attacked on the
troops of both sides and the battle started. Hazrat Aishah mounted a camel to lead the army. Due
to this camel, battle is known as battle of Jamal or camel.
Talha and Zubair left the battle field, but were caught and murdered by the treacherous
mischief-makers. In this battle, Ayesha mounted a camel and battle ensured around it. Camel
was wounded and Ayesha was brought down unhurt by cutting the legs of her camel. The battle
ended in favour of Hazrat Ali. Ali treated Ayesha with respect and honuor and sent her back to
Medina, escorted by her brother Muhammad bin Abu Bakr. Ayesha retired to a quiet life and
never took part in politics again.
In this fierce fighting, thousands of men from each side were killed. This battle was a first
civil between Muslims. It was a big threat to the solidarity of Muslim Ummah.
After battle of camel, Hazrat Ali changed capital of Islamic state from Madinah to Kufa. This
change increased his dependence upon rebellious element of Kufa. He put himself in this chaotic
and turbulent city and lost dignity of Madina, a holy centre of Islam.
After his charge as fourth caliph, when political sky was cloudy, Hazrat Ali changed all
governors with single order. This step created unrest in the Islamic state and paved a way to
battle of Siffin.
Ali deposed Muawiya from governship of Syria but he refused to vacate the office. He
said that he was appointed by Hazrat Umar not by Hazrat Usman. He raised the cry for revenge
of blood of Hazrat Usman. Killing of Talha and Zubair and ill-treatment with Hazrat Ayesha at
battle of Jamal led Hazrat Muawiya to criticize Hazrat Ali.
Muawiya gained enough power to take the offensive against caliph. Ali did not want to
shed Muslims blood. He asked Ali to bring assassins of Hazrat Usman to the book. The anger of
Syrians against regicides convinced Ali that sword alone would decide between them. So he
declared the war against Muawiya.
When war became inevitable, Ali at the head of 80,000 men marched towards Syria. On
learning of Ali’s approach Muwaiya proceeded against him with the army of 90,000. Two armies
met at the place named Siffin. They were biggest armies of the early Islam facing not infidels but
fellow Muslims. For three months rival soldiers remained facing each other without coming to
blow.
As Ali was against bloodshed among Muslims, he sent three messengers to Muwiya to
summit in the interest of empire. In reply he demanded the punishment of murderers of Usman.
Negotiation ended in failure. Skirmishes then occurred. But fighting was stopped due to sacred
month Muharram. After this month, on the 8th of Safar 37A.H hand to hand combat took start.
When the third day dawned, Syrian army seemed to be losing. With the strategy of Amr bin Aas,
Syrian army fastened the Quran with their lances as a sign that war should cease now and matter
should be decided by teachings of Quran and Sunnah. Hazrat Ali warned his men not to fall into
this trap and continue the battle upto crushing defeat of the Syrain army. But his exhortation had
no effect and caliph had to stop fighting against his better judgment.
From both sides arbitrators were nominated to decide the matter according to Quran and
Sunnah. The caliph was still luckless in choice of nominees. Amr bin Aas was selected by Hazrat
Muwiya and Hazrat Ali had to select Abu Musa Al Ashari. It was decided that both would meet
after six month at place between Syria and Iran. The two armies left the battlefield.
Battle of Nahrawan was another main event of his caliphate. When Ali army was
returning from Siffin, a group of his army rejected the decision of arbitration. They thought that
the Quran has given very clear instructions about the proper way to treat rebels. Their cry was ‘la
hukma illa li-llah’- no decision except Allah’s.
Angry at Ali’ move, about 3000 or 4000 of these men separated themselves from Ali’s
army at Harura, a village near Kufa and rode to Naharawn.They were known as Khawarij,
seceders .
In 37 A.H. Ali was forced to move against Khawarij with an army of 12,000 at
Naharawan. There he confronted 4000 Kharijities. Before fighting, however, nearly half of them
either withdrew or came over to Ali’s side. Still 1800 of them defied the Caliph. He ordered his
force to attack these die-hards, who fought with characteristic bravery. All but seven escaped
alive from the battlefield. This battle diverted attention of Ali from Muawiya.
One sided decision of arbitrators was another important event of his rule. When two
arbitrators of Siffin first declared their decision in private, they both seemed to have agreed that
Hazrat Usman had been killed unjustly. And they also said that Hazrat Ali and Muawiya should
both step down, and a new caliph be elected. But when they announced in public they differed.
Abu Musa Ashri stood by what he had said, but Amr bin Aas changed his version and declared
that while Hazrat Ali should step down, Muawiya should be confirmed as caliph. Many Muslims
condemned this as a trick.
This public declaration did not decide the matter and Hazrat Ali was still regarded as a
caliph by his supporters, though his cause grew weaker elsewhere. In these increasing
difficulties, he was suddenly attacked in 40 A.H/ 661A.D by Abdul Rehamn ibn Muljim, a
Kharjite who wanted revenge for the killings at Naharawan. He died two days later.

Q. Give and account of the followings.

Battle of Camel (Jamal)
This battle took place between Hazrat Ali and group of Hazrat Talha, Zubair and Ayshah
in 656 A.D. The assassination of Usman shocked the Muslims.
A cry of revenge was at once raised and demanded punishment of murderers of Hazrat
Usman. Hazrat Ali delayed due to lack of evidence and instability in the state.
Talha and Zubair were discontented with this delay. They contacted Ayesha, the Prophet
widow, who herself was deeply grieved at Uthman’s murder. Talha and Zubair raised an army
and persuaded Ayesha to accompany them. Hazrat Ali’s son, Hassan, also managed to raise an
Army of 10,000 from Kufa. The two armies met at Basra. Ali assured Aishah that he will punish
the murderers at proper time. As both parties did not want bloodshed, negotiations were started
and hostilities were suspended. Mischief-makers from both armies were alarmed as peace meant
their own doom.
After peaceful agreement, both armies slept. At night Mischief makers attacked on the
troops of both sides and the battle started. Hazrat Aishah mounted a camel to lead the army. Due
to this camel, battle is known as battle of Jamal or camel.
Talha and Zubair left the battle field, but were caught and murdered by the treacherous mischief-
makers. In this battle, Ayesha mounted a camel and battle ensured around it. Hazrat Ali gave the
order to cut the legs of Camel and Ayesha was brought down unhurt. No sooner did the camel
fall than the fighting ceased.
The battle ended in favour of Hazrat Ali. Ali treated Ayesha with respect and honour and
sent her back to Medina, escorted by her brother Muhammad bin Abu Bakr. Ayesha retired to a
quiet life and never took part in politics again.
 In this fierce fighting, thousands of men from each side were killed. This battle was a first
civil between Muslims. It was a big threat to the solidarity of Muslim Ummah. It caused a great
loss of many leading companions. It also paved a way to other battles in the caliphate of Hazrat
Ali. After this battle Ali’s caliphate came to be acknowledged in every province except for Syria.
Battle of Siffin
After assuming the charge of caliphate, Hazrat Ali took some drastic steps, including
change of governors and delaying the revenge from murderers of Hazrat Usman. This created
unrest in the Islamic state and generated grouping.
Ali deposed Muawiya from governship of Syria but he refused to vacate the office. He
said that he was appointed by Hazrat Umar not by Hazrat Usman. He raised the cry for revenge
of blood of Hazrat Usman. Killing of Talha and Zubair and ill-treatment with Hazrat Ayesha at
battle of Jamal led Hazrat Muawiya to criticize Hazrat Ali.
Muawiya gained enough power to take the offensive against caliph. Ali did not want to
shed Muslims blood. He asked Ali to bring assassins of Hazrat Usman to the book. The anger of
Syrians against regicides convinced Ali that sword alone would decide between them. So he
declared the war against Muawiya.
When war became inevitable, Ali at the head of 80,000 men marched towards Syria. On
learning of Ali’s approach Muawiya proceeded against him with the army of 90,000. Two armies
met at the place named Siffin. They were biggest armies of the early Islam facing not infidels but
fellow Muslims. For several months rival solders remained facing each other without coming to
blow.
As Ali was against bloodshed among Muslims, he sent three messengers to Muwiya to
summit in the interest of empire. In reply he demanded the punishment of murderers of Usman.
Negotiation ended in failure. Skirmishes then occurred. But fighting was stopped due to sacred
month Muharram. After this month, on the 8th of Safar 37A.H hand to hand combat started.
When the third day dawned, Syrian army seemed to be losing. With the strategy of Amr bin Aas,
Syrian army fastened the Quran with their lances as a sign that war should cease now and matter
should be decided by teachings of Quran and Sunnah. Hazrat Ali warned his men not to fall into
this trap and continue the battle upto crushing defeat of the Syrian army. But his exhortation had
no effect and caliph had to stop fighting against his better judgment.
From both sides arbitrators were nominated to decide the matter according to Quran. The
caliph was still luckless in choice of nominees. Amr bin Aas was selected by Hazrat Muwiya and
Hazrat Ali had to select Abu Musa Ashari. It was decided that both would meet at Dumat-ul
Jandal.
In this fierce fighting, thousands of men from each side were killed. This battle confirmed
grouping among Muslims. It was a big threat to the solidarity of Muslim Ummah. As a result of
this battle, new group of Khawarij was generated. This battle paved a way to battle of Nahrawan
which led to assassination of Hazrat of Ali.
Battle of Nahrawan
This battle took place between Hazrat Ali and Khawarij at Nahrawan in 658 A.D.
When Ali army was returning from Siffin, a group of his army rejected the decision of
arbitration. They thought that the Quran has given very clear instructions about the proper way to
treat rebels. Their cry was ‘la hukma illa lillah’- no decision except Allah’s. Angry at Ali’ move,
about 3000 or 4000 of these men separated themselves from Ali’s army at Harura, a village near
Kufa and rode to Naharawn.They were known as Khawarij, seceders.
 In 37 A.H. Ali was forced to move against Khawarij with an army of 12,000 at
Nahrawan. There he confronted 4000 Kharijities. Before fighting, however, nearly half of them
either withdrew or came over to Ali’s side. Still 1800 of them defied the Caliph. He ordered his
force to attack these die-hards, who fought with characteristic bravery. All but seven escaped
alive from the battlefield.
This battle diverted attention of Ali from Muawiya. This battle filled Khawarih with
feelings of revenge and they killed Hazrat Ali in 40 A.H/ 661A.D. With him ended orthodox
caliphate.
Arbitration (Tahkeem)
In battle of Siffin between Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Amir Muawiya in 657 A.D.
Syrian army seemed to be losing on third day. With the strategy of Amr bin Aas, Syrian army
fastened the Quran with their lances as a sign that war should cease now and matter should be
decided by teachings of Quran. Hazrat Ali warned his men not to fall into this trap and continue
the battle upto crushing defeat of the Syrain army. But his exhortation had no effect and caliph
had to stop fighting against his better judgment. Hazrat Ali was persuaded to accept and
arrangements were made for an arbitrator from each side to decide rights and wrongs of the case.
From both sides arbitrators were nominated to decide the matter according to Quran. The
caliph was still luckless in choice of nominees. Amr bin Aas was selected by Hazrat Muwiya and
Hazrat Ali had to select Abu Musa Ashari. It was decided that both would meet after six month
at place between Syria and Iran. Both arbitrators met at Dumat-ul-Jundal. When two arbitrators
of Siffin first declared their decision in private, they both seemed to have agreed that Hazrat
Usman had been killed unjustly. And they also said that Hazrat Ali and Muawiya should both
step down, and a new caliph be elected. But when they announced in public they differed. Abu
Musa Alashri stood by what he had said, but Amr bin Aas changed his version and declared that
while Hazrat Ali should step down, Muawiya should be confirmed as caliph. Many Muslims
condemned this as a trick.
This one sided decision did not decide the matter and Hazrat Ali was still regarded
as a caliph by his supporters, though his cause grew weaker elsewhere.

Q.1. Why Hazrat Ali faced difficulties in his rule?

Caliphate period of Hazrat Ali (36-41 A.H) is full of differences, battles and clashes. He
found the caliphate on bed of roses.
At the time of election of Hazrat Ali in 656 AD, there was instability in the Islamic state
after assassination of Hazrat Usman. First reason for the failure of Hazrat Ali (R.A) was that he
delayed the matter of avenge of Usman’s blood. The assassination of Usman shocked the
Muslims. A cry of revenge was at once raised and demanded punishment of murderers of Hazrat
Usman. Hazrat Ali delayed due to lack of evidence and instability in the state. This demand
created problems for him.
The second reason was change of all governors appointed by Hazrat Usman with single
order. Hazrat Ameer Muawiyah, governor of Syria appointed by Umar, refused to vacate the
office with demand of punishment of murderers of Usman. Syrians did not show their allegiance
to Hazrat Ali. It weekend the Islamic state.
Thirdly, due to delay in revenge, Hazrat Talha and Zubair joined Hazrat Ayesha, widow
of Prophet and decided to fight against Ali. Battle of camel took place in 656 AD. Talha and
Zubair left the battle field, but they were caught and murdered by the treacherous mischief-
makers. Thousands of men from each side were killed. This battle was a first civil between
Muslims. It was a big threat to the solidarity of Muslim Ummah. It also paved a way to other
battles in the caliphate of Hazrat Ali. The death of Talha and Zubair ultimately weakened the
cause of Ali.
Hazrat Ali could not identify the rebels. They had been wearing persona on their faces
and deceiving the Caliph. They remained successful to generate grouping among Muslims. This
was another reason of his difficulties.
He faced difficulties in his caliphate because he changed the capital of Islamic state.
Medina had remained the capital for a long time but now he shifted his headquarters to Kufa
believing on the rebels who helped him in Battle of Camel (Jamal). This change increased his
difficulties and Later on he was killed at Kufa.
Sixthly, Ali (R.A) didn’t consult companions in matter of difficulties. He had lack of
political foresight. He coined his own decision in the political matters and neglected or rejected
other advises. This brought different difficulties in the empire.
By the time, the strength of Muawiyah increased. Rebels remained successful in their mission.
Khawarij proved another big threat for him. Thus, entire period of the Caliphate of Hazrat Ali
passed in riots and Civil war. During his tenure of four years and nine months, he could not find
a day of complete satisfaction and peace. The door of new conquest, during his regime remained
almost closed. The divisions took place, cracks were widened and separatist could not be united.
The difficulties and problems increased day by day, until his martyrdom took place on 21st of
Ramadan 40A.H.

Q: Why Hazrat Muawiya refused to vacate the office of Hazrat Ali?

After assuming the charge of caliphate, Ali had to face difficulties and problems. Against
the advice of his friends and kinsmen, He changed all governors appointed by Hazrat Usman
with single order. Hazrat Muawiya, governor of Syria, refused to accept Hazrat Ali as caliph.
The first reason for refusal of Muawiya was Ali’s step of changing the governors. When the
political sky was cloudy, Ali changed all the governors appointed by Usman. The new appointed
governor for Syria was Sahl bin Hanif.
Hazrat Muawiya refused to leave his post as governor of Syria on excuse that his
appointment was made by Hazrat Umer not Hazrat Usman. This happened for what Ali’s
advisors and friends had already warned him.
Another reason of refusal was election of Hazrat Ali. He declared election of Hazrat Ali
to be illegal. According to him, it had been under the influence of the rebels. Therefore he sent
governor appointed by Hazrat Ali back and refused to vacate the office.
The third reason was his demand of revenge from murderers of Hazrat Usman. He
harangued the people against murderers of Hazrat Usman from the pulpit in the mosque of
Damascus where blood stained shirt of Usman was hanged before weeping people. Hazrat Ali
delayed this matter. Hazrat Muawiya demanded to hand over murderers to him. It was also
refused by Ali. It led Syrians to raise cry of war against Ali.
Forth reason was ill-treatment with Hazrat Ayesha and killing of Hazrat Zubair and
Hazrat Talha. It added fuel to fire and Muawiya refused to vacate the office.
Thus at the very beginning of caliphate, Hazrat Ali had to face administrative crisis in the
country. Hazrat Muawiya and Syrians emerged as great challenge to him.
Q: Who were Khawarij?
Literally, Khawarij means “separatists”. It was a group who had alienated itself from the
army of Ali, after battle of Siffin, and was opposing both Ali and Muawiyya. They were also
called “Harurites”, as they separated themselves near this village named Harura. They also called
themselves as “Shurats”, because they sold their lives and goods in return for paradise.
Q: What were the beliefs of Khawarij?
Their slogan was ‘la hukma illa li-llah’- no decision except Allah’s. They declared first
three caliphs usurpers. They believed that Usman followed the traditions of his two illustrious
predecessors during the first few years of his caliphate. Then he started nepotism and favouritism
towards his Umayyad clan, which justified revolt against him and his murder. As regards Ali, he
was also rightly guided Caliph. But when he accepted arbitration, he was betrayed.
Therefore, he too should be deposed for his blasphemy, if need be, by force of arms.
Q: What was the role of Khawarij in,
Battle of Siffin
Battle of Siffin was fought between Ali the Caliph, heading the army of 80,000, and
Muawiyya, the Governor of Syria, with an army of 90,000 in 657 A.D. From Ali’s army, the
Quran-readers fought desperately. On third day, when the Syrians were pressed hard, Muawiyya,
on the suggestion of Amr bin al-Aas, ordered his troops to stuck up the leaves of the Quran on
points of their lances and step forth before the Iraqi army with the cry: “Here is the Book of
Allah! Let it decide between us”. The stratagem succeeded perfectly. There were thousands of
fanatical Quran-readers in Ali’s army, who at once took up the cry and declared that they would
not fight. Ali tried to reason with them, saying that it was a trick of the enemy to cheat them of
the victory they were about to win. But the fanatics refused to listen to him. Thus the helpless
Caliph nominated Abu Musa Ashari and Muawiyya nominated Amr bin Aas as their arbitrators.
After setting the date and place of meeting of arbitrators both armies departed.
Ali’s army was full of mutual discords. They disputed over the agreement of arbitration.
Among them the Quran-readers were a complete volte-face. They proclaimed that they had been
tricked into acceptance of the arbitration and demanded from Ali to return and fight again with
Syrians. When the army reached a place called Harura, a day’s journey from Kufa, 4000 of
Quran-readers separated themselves from the main army and refused to return with it to Kufa.
They came to be called as “Harurians”, after the place Harura, or Khawarij, that is, the
“separatists”.
Battle of Nahrawan:
On hearing the atrocities of Khawarij, his army refused to march against Syria when a
terrible danger lurked behind in Iraq. With an army of 12,000, Ali marched to Nahrawan. There
he confronted 4000 Kharijities. Before fighting, however, nearly half of them either withdrew or
came over to Ali’s side. Still 1800 of them defied the Caliph. He ordered his force to attack these
die-hards, who fought with characteristic bravery. All but seven escaped alive from the
battlefield.
Q: How they plotted to assassinate Ali?
Give an account of assassination of Hazrat Ali.
Though defeated at Nahrawan and suppressed elsewhere, Khawaraj yet mourned bitterly
in secrecy over the fact that the Islamic state was still ruled by the ungodly Caliphs of Kufa and
Damascus. Once in 40 A.H., three of them, Abdur Rehman ibn Muljim of Murad tribe, Bakr bin
Abdullah and Amr bin Bakr of the Tamim, met in privacy. They hit a plot to rid the world of
Islam at a single stroke of its three great tyrants as they called Ali, Muawiyya and Amr bin al
Aas. They conspired to kill each of them on a single day, the 17th of Ramazan. Accordingly, Ibn
Muljim was to go after Ali in Kufa, Bakr bin Abdullah after Muawiyya in Damascus and Amr
bin Bakr after Amr bin al-Aas in Fustat. Ibn Muljim came to Kufa and stayed in the quarters of
Banu Kindah, who were sympathetic towards the Kharijis. One day he met a few men of Tamim
Ribah whose men had been put to death by Ali at Nahrawan. He fell in love with Qutum, a
beautiful woman of Tamim Ribah whose husband and a brother had died at Nahrawan. He
proposed marriage to her. She agreed on the condition of giving her the endowment of 3000
dirhams, a slave girl and the head of Ali. She introduced him to two accomplices who also were
burning to avenge the death of their Khawarij comrades.
On the appointed day, the three assassins went to the Mosque in Kufa early in the
morning. They hid themselves behind the entrance door. It was the custom of the Caliph to reach
the mosque at early dawn, calling upon the people to assemble for prayer. When on this fateful
day, he came near the door; the conspirators fell upon him with their poisoned swords. He fell
down seriously wounded. Ibn Muljim was seized; the second assassin was killed, but third made
good his escape. The Caliph was carried home in a precarious condition. He survived two days
more and died of the wounds in 40 AH/661AD. Thus died the fourth Caliph of Islam and ended
orthodox caliphate. He was then 60 years old.

Q. Give an account of character of Hazrat Ali.

Hazrat Ali was an embodiment of Islamic values. He possessed many superb qualities of
head and heart.
He was truthful and honest, humble, generous, liberal in giving charity and simple in
habits. Even as Caliph, he lived in an ordinary house.
Hazrat Ali was a great scholar and philosopher with great depth in his thoughts. Most difficult
and knotty questions were referred to him and his verdict was considered final. He was known
for his wisdom and learning. He had learnt the Holy Quran by heart and he could quote verses to
suit every occasion.
The Holy Prophet (PBUH) had once said:
“If I am the city of knowledge, verily Ali is its gate.”
Hazrat Ali’s knowledge extended too many disciplines such as mathematics, physics, and
astronomy. He was an orator and poet and a skillful administrator. Hazrat Ali was chivalrous and
forgiving. He was a brave warrior and an able general. He fought many battles in his lifetime and
in all such encounters, his rivals were killed. For his unusual bravery, he won the titles of
Asadullah, the lion of Allah and Haider-e-Karrar, the warrior whom nobody could match.
He was endowed with great intellectual powers. He was wise in counsel and worked as chief
counselor for first three caliphs. Many Muslims and non-Muslim writers have testified the
greatness of Hazrat Ali’s character. Professor Hitti in his book
‘History of the Arabs, says:
“Valiant in battle, wise in counsel, eloquent in speech, true to his friends,
magnanimous to his foes, Ali became both the paragon of Muslim nobility and chivalry.”
Undoubtedly Hazrat Ali is one of the greatest Muslims Islam has produced after the Holy
Prophet (P.B.U.H) of Islam. He richly deserves the titles Lion of Allah for his bravery and Gate
of knowledge for his learning.