With the Prophet’s death on the 28th of Safar in the 11th year after Hijra, a new phase began in Imam Ali’s life. While the Imam and the Bani Hashim were busy preparing and burying the Prophet, a group of Muslims gathered at Saqifa Bani Sa’ida and chose Abu Bakr as caliph.
To preserve Islamic unity and avoid division, Imam Ali eventually pledged allegiance to the caliph but refused to accept any official position in the government. He said during this period: “I remained patient though there was a thorn in my eye and a bone stuck in my throat.”
During the twenty-five years of seclusion, Imam Ali devoted himself to scholarly and cultural activities. He focused on interpreting the Quran, explaining religious laws, and educating disciples. His house became a center for answering Muslims’ scientific and religious questions.
During the caliphates of Omar and Uthman, Imam Ali served as an advisor on various matters. The caliphs sought his help in complex judicial and religious issues. Omar repeatedly said: “If it weren’t for Ali, Omar would have perished” and “May Allah not leave me alive for a difficult matter where Abu Al-Hassan (Ali) is not present.”
During this period, Imam Ali also engaged in agriculture and digging irrigation canals. He cultivated many gardens and used their income to help the poor and needy. The wells he dug remained known for many years as “Ali’s Wells.”
During this time, the Imam paid special attention to educating his children. Imam Hassan and Imam Hussein received knowledge and education in their father’s school, becoming role models for Islamic society. Lady Zainab also became known during this period as “Aqilat Bani Hashim” (The Wise Woman of Bani Hashim).
After Lady Fatima’s martyrdom, Imam Ali married Umama (daughter of Zainab and Abu Al-As) according to Lady Fatima’s will. Among his other wives was Umm Al-Banin (mother of Abbas) who played an important role in raising the Imam’s children.
Next: Part Four: The Period of Caliphate and Martyrdom
Previous: Part Two: From the Beginning of Prophethood to the Prophet’s Death
The above content was published on 20/3/2025 on Imam Ali (AS) Foundation Library