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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Biography of Imam `alĪ Ibn AbĪ-tĀlib Foreword Bismillahirrahmanirrahim All praise be to Allah alone, and all blessings be upon the Chosen Prophet, Muhammad, and his household whom He has chosen Amir al-Mu’minin, `Ali ibn Abi-Talib (a.s), is a great and peerless personality whose qualities have been recognized by friends and foes alike. None could ever deny his sterling qualities. He was born in a distinguished family of the tribe of Quraysh.

He had the singular distinction of taking birth in the holy precincts of the Ka`bah. He first opened his eyes in this world to see the radiant visage of the Prophet (a.s). He grew and received upbringing under the tutelage of the Prophet (a.s). Imam `Ali (a.s) followed the footsteps of his mentor and cousin from his very childhood. He was always with the Prophet (a.s) like a shadow and derived felicity from the company.

Imam `Ali (a.s) accomplished the various stages of upbringing and training under the fond and watchful eyes of the Prophet (a.s) His head and heart absorbed the actions and the exemplary character of the Prophet (a.s).The purity of thoughts and excellence of upbringing elevated Imam `Ali (a.s) to such heights that the moon and the stars appear to be at lower elevations!

This is a common belief, and true to a certain extent, that the environment plays a major role in shaping the nature and thoughts of persons. But, in this world, there have been august personalities who were not at all affected by the popular beliefs and superstitions. The thinking of these persons has always been different and their actions far apart from those of the populace.

`Ali ibn Abi-Talib (a.s) has been one such noble personality who, rather than falling in line with the mundane thoughts and habits of the people, left his mark on their thoughts and actions. With his vision, power of comprehension and Allah’s help he was able to draw a line between right and wrong and, therefore, laid the foundation of a new and unique culture and thought process. Instead of treading the beaten track, he left his own footprints for others to follow.

Therefore, in that idolatrous period in the history of Arabia, he never bowed his head to anyone other than the Creator, Allah! He kept his radiant forehead safe from bowing to myriad idols installed in the Ka`bah those days. Imam `Ali’s thoughts and actions were always in tune with those of the Prophet (a.s).