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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Imam Ali (a.s.)'s Book of Government Chapter One: Allegiance of Light 1.1 The Date of Allegiance to the Imam The historians and hagiographers differ in determining the accurate date of people’s allegiance to Imam Ali (a.s.). Some said the same day that 'Uthman was killed people swore allegiance to the Imam (a.s.).[^1] Others believe that allegiance to the Imam took place several days after the murder of 'Uthman.

This interval, varying from one to five days, is matter of disagreement among the historians.[^2] It is reported in some historical sources that the allegiance to Ali (a.s.) was sworn on Friday 25th of Dhil Hajja, which is supposed to be the same day that 'Uthamn was killed.[^3] And finally, according to what Tabari quoted from Abu Malih, and Ibn Abi al-Hadid quoted from Abu Ja'far Iskafi[^4], and also according to what is reported in Tarikh-i Damishq, and Tadhkira al-Khawass[^5], people swore allegiance to the Imam on Friday Dhil Hajja 18, 35AH/ June 12, 656CE.

In my opinion, the latter view is closer to reality; since besides being asserted by the above-mentioned sources, it is compatible with the view of those who identify the date of allegiance to the Imam with the date of the murder of 'Uthman; as 'Uthman, according to the soundest traditions, was murdered on the 18th of Dhil Hajja.[^6] On the other hand, given the political circumstances of the then Islamic community and Imam Ali (a.s.)’s exclusive situation, the several days interval between 'Uthman’s murder and appointment of the new leader is far from reality.

1.2 People’s Freedom in Electing the Imam Imam Ali (a.s.), in a letter to the Kufans at the time of departure from Madina for Basra: "People swore allegiance to me, not by force or compulsion, but obediently and out of free will".[^7] Imam Ali (a.s.): The Messenger of God deceased, while I considered myself the most merited [to be chosen] as a ruler. But people agreed upon Abu Bakr for ruling. I surrendered too and obeyed. Then, the time for Abu Bakr’s death arrived.

I presumed that the hukuma would be handed over to no one other than me; but he installed 'Umar as ruler. I surrendered too and obeyed. Then 'Umar fell sick. I supposed the hukuma would not pass me by [this time]; but 'Umar turned it over to six persons, of whom I was one. Consequently, the hukuma was left to 'Uthman. Again, I surrendered and obeyed.