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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books The Hidden Truth about Karbala Chapter 4: Nomination of Ali to the Caliphate by the Prophet (S) The chief and only cause for division among Muslims is the question whether or not the Prophet (S) has nominated anyone as his successor. All sects of Muslims universally agree that, of the four caliphs and in fact among all the companions of the Prophet (S), Ali (a.s.) was the most learned, just, valiant, noble and deserving.

Yet, the majority sect, the Sunnis prefer to resign themselves to the historical fact that Ali (a.s.) became the fourth caliph, though they readily admit that Imam Ali (a.s.) was, in fact, the most deserving to immediately succeed the Prophet (S), as the first caliph. The differences and debates begin the moment when the legitimacy of the first three caliphs is put to test. The Sunni do not wish to discuss the impropriety of Ali (a.s.) being relegated to the fourth place.

The Shia, on the other hand, believe that the caliphate was usurped through a well planned conspiracy in which, systematically, all the occasions and the sayings [traditions] of the Prophet (S) nominating Ali (a.s.) as his successor, were either erased completely or at least distorted and misinterpreted, in order to justify Ali’s (a.s.) exclusion from immediate succession to the caliphate. Let us now examine the rival contentions based on books considered authentic by the various sects.

From the first day when he was commanded to proclaim Islam, to the last day when he was called to return to his Lord, the Prophet (S) had, at every opportunity, identified and nominated Imam Ali (a.s.) as his immediate successor. This was in keeping with Divine Tradition, where every Apostle either appointed or at least indicated his successor according to Divine commands. God chose and appointed His Apostles and their successors.

From Adam (a.s.) to the Last Prophet (S), man had no say in their appointment. Wise men like the Magi were given signs by which they recognized and identified prophets and their successors.[^1] The prophets themselves sometimes expressly appointed and at other times gave clear indications about their successors.

The golden thread in all religions is that a Comforter or Mehdi [as Muslims call him] or a Kalki [as the Hindus call him] will come towards the end of the world to bring Divine Justice and universal peace. This personality, it is unanimously agreed, is one chosen by God. Prophets are endowed with Divine Wisdom.