This is why it is said...

This is why it is said, “One who does not know the ancestry of a person, cannot fathom his personality.” To comprehend the personality and ancestral greatness of `Ali (a.s), it is important to make a study of his ancestors who have gone by. This will illustrate the nobility and chivalry of character that was transferred to the progeny from generation to generation.

The chronological chart The chronological chart of `Ali (a.s) is `Ali ibn (son of) Abi-Talib ibn `Abd al-Muttalib ibn Hashim ibn `Abd-Manaf ibn Qasi ibn Kalab ibn Murrah ibn Ka`b ibn Lu’ay ibn Ghalib ibn Fihr ibn Malik ibn al-Nadr ibn Kinanah ibn Khuzaymah ibn Mudrak ibn Ilyas ibn Mudar ibn Nizar ibn Ma`d ibn Adnan. The history of Arabia bears witness that all the personalities of this chronological tree have been distinguished persons of their times.

They were the followers of the Abraham Faith, progressive in outlook and possessors of spotless character. During the dark, idolatrous times, they were the torch- bearers of the monotheistic Abraham Faith. They endeavored to uphold justice and human rights. They stood firm against the elements of trouble and promoted brotherhood, humanity and thoughtfulness in people. They encouraged trading activity to promote economic growth. They always took up the cause of the weak and down trodden.

They hosted the Hajjis coming from far away places for the annual ritual. These were the traits that made them favorites of the populace. Brief profiles of these personalities are given here to acquaint the reader with their greatness. `Adnan ibn Adad He was an illustrious personality in the progeny of Qaydar the son of Isma`il (a.s). The progeny of Qaydar preferred to stay on in Hijaz. `Adnan too was born in Hijaz. The tribes of Banū-Isma`il trace their ancestry to him.

This is the reason they are referred to as the Family of `Adnan or the Family of Mudar. He was a handsome person and from the very childhood, he manifested exemplary character. His face reflected his intelligence and fortitude. His forehead was radiant and the brightness of his face manifested that Divine Light was to take birth in his progeny. He was the noble leader of men of his time and chivalrous with his sword. He always held important positions in the Arab society.

Besides the people of Batha’ and Yathrib, the peripatetic Bedouins of the desert too assembled under his standard.