All the discussions that took place and the arguments that...

All the discussions that took place and the arguments that were put forward displayed on the contrary a complete lack of attention to the spiritual and ethical dimensions of succession to the Prophet so that we find the Helpers vaunting their wealth and their numbers. If they made no reference to more fundamental matters it was because they had a very small portion of the spiritual and sapiential riches of Islam nor did they see themselves to be free of pollution by sin.

They were thus unable to base their concept of government on exalted values. Even Abu Bakr confesses that he is neither superior to the rest of the people in terms of knowledge or spiritual accomplishment nor immune from the commission of error and sin. Thus he says: "O people I may fall prey to error just as it is possible that I will make no mistakes. If you see me deviating from the right path compel me to return to it.

For the Prophet peace and blessings be upon him and his family was inerrant but I am not; I have a satan that besets me." ( 2 ) 'Umar recounted to Ibn 'Abbas the reasons why he regarded 'Ali peace be upon him as more qualified for the caliphate: "I swear by God that if your friend 'Ali assumes the ( 93 ) caliphate he will cause the people to act in accordance with the Book of God and the Sun nah of the Messenger and will lead them to the straight and clear path of religion." ( 3 ) When Abu 'Ubaydah b.

al-Jarrah learned from 'Ali of his refusal to swear allegiance to Abu Bakr he turned to him and said: "Abandon the leadership of Islamic society to Abu Bakr for the time being.

If you remain alive everyone will come to see that you are the worthiest of all for that post for your virtues strong faith extensive knowledge early commitment to Islam and close relationship with the Messenger of God peace and blessings be upon him and his family are evident to all." ( 4 ) The Commander of the Faithful 'Ali peace be upon him spelled out for the the distinguished qualities that are needed in the ruler of the Islamic ummah qualities he himself possessed: no Migrants do not remove from the family of the Messenger of God peace and blessings be upon him and his family the government that he himself founded and do not transfer it to your own households.

I swear by God that we the People of the House are fitter for this task than anyone else.