ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Ammar Ibn Yasir (ra) - A Companion of the Prophet ('s) Chapter 14: The Standard of Imam ‘Ali The period of ‘Ali was the period of ‘Ammar and, in fact, of everyone, because it was undoubtedly the period of justice, freedom, equality and the domination of Islam. In the circumstances it should not be expected that in such a period ‘Ammar should have remained obscure, idle and quiet.

And again, keeping in view the fact that in the eyes of the Muslims, ‘Ammar was recognized to be the symbol of guidance, it is evident that in such an atmosphere and situation his activity, zeal, virtuous part and good reputation should have been utilized. Hence, in this historical period of theirs which was replete with various campaigns and battles all the Muslims had fixed their eyes on ‘Ammar for the solution of their problems.

That is, in whatever row they saw ‘Ammar, they were satisfied that, that row was on the side of truth. In short, the people distinguished goodness from evil and truth from falsehood through ‘Ammar. The people were entitled to hold the view which they did about ‘Ammar and did not exaggerate or went beyond the bounds, because ‘Ammar was like a crescent which had risen from the horizon of Islam and had been striving for the last forty five years as a mujahid (warrior).

He had witnessed the greatest perils and troubles which Islam had to face. He saw around him anxiety and agitation of mind as well as avarice and greed. He remained steadfast with perfectly solid faith, firm views and constant thinking, when most of his companions had become shaky and had become apostates. In the circumstances it is not surprising that out of all those different people such a weak and at the same time an active person should attain such honour, greatness, dignity and importance.

Imam as-Sadiq said to one of his companions: "Some people imagine: that until ‘Ali drew his sword he was not an Imam.