With the plunder of the foreign lands there was excess of...

With the plunder of the foreign lands there was excess of wealth in the Nation that had changed the very nature of the Arabs for the worst. Instead of the proverbial simplicity, the life style of Arabs turned towards pomp and show of wealth. Although it was not an easy task to mend the fences, Imam `Ali (a.s) faced the intrigue of the adversaries to protect Islam and its moral values.

His services in this direction were selfless and his observations are a treasure- house in the annals of Islamic History. In the battlefield and in the halls of debate he represented the cause of Islam with absolute valor and success.

Whether it was the Feast of al-`Ashirah or it was the presentation of the Verse of Bara’ah to the infidels of Makkah; whether it was the Capture of Makkah, Purification of the Ka`bah, the expedition of Khandaq or that of Khaybar; Imam `Ali’s services to the cause have a unique distinction enjoyed by none else in the comity of the Prophet’s companions. His efforts are rated the highest in the protection, welfare, propagation and development of the Faith of Islam.

If his contribution is separated from the History of Islam, the history will appear wanting in content. His achievements are a dominant part of the annals of Islamic History.

Although in every epoch efforts were made by his adversaries to put curtains of darkness over his achievement, and the establishments of those days were hand in glove with such historians, their enmity and hatred could not succeed in hiding Imam `Ali’s great contributions, and he continues to shine on the horizon of Islam like the brightest of stars!

Amir al-Mu’minin (a.s), on the one hand patronized learning and knowledge to take the caravan of humanity forward and on the other he himself set brightest examples of virtuous action that became a beacon of guidance for the populace. It is necessary that people follow and emulate his way of life. They should draw light from his thoughts and beliefs. The norms of action should be devised on his teachings and actions. The society must be built on the foundation of unshakable principles.

Then only the individual and collective lives will be compatible with the requirements of the Faith and will achieve the moral heights. With this aim impressions of the life and achievements of Imam `Ali (a.s) are being described in this work. Attempt has been made neither to make a colorful presentation nor to exaggerate any facts.