ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books History of Islam Imam `ali; the Holy Prophet's Successor in Medina On those days, Medina was in a delicate and sensitive state. While Muslim troops were headed for a long mission, the hypocrites, despite their having nominally accepted Islam, disobeyed the Holy Prophet's orders and stayed in Medina.

`Abdullah ibn Ubayy had gathered a great number of proponents around himself.[^94] In addition to the hypocrites, there was the worry and fear concerning the beaten and defeated enemies of Islam in Mecca, its vicinities and the nomads living around Medina. Thus, it was crucial for a strong man to protect the newly established Islamic state while the Holy Prophet was away.

For this purpose, the Holy Prophet appointed Imam `Ali as his successor, telling him, “In order to manage the affairs of Medina, either you or I should be present.”[^95] Regarding this event, Mas`udi writes: “It is advisable to say that the Prophet appointed Imam `Ali as his successor in Medina so that he could control those who opposed participating in the Prophet's military mission.” Imam `Ali used to take part in all campaigns and battles of the Prophet[^96] and acted as a standard-bearer.[^97] The hypocrites, however, spread the rumor that the Holy Prophet let `Ali stay in Medina because he no longer loved him!

Having heard this rumor, Imam `Ali became upset; he took his sword and attended the Holy Prophet's presence at al-Jurf.[^98] He rephrased the hypocrite’s claim and complained about the whole situation. The Holy Prophet replied: “They are liars! You are my successor. Return and act as my successor.

Are you not happy that your position to me is the same as (Prophet) Aaron’s position to (Prophet) Moses except that there will be no prophet after me?”[^99] However, Shaykh al-Mufid accounts for this event in the following manner: “My brother; Go back to your position, because nobody else, except for you or me, can govern Medina. You are my representative—from among my family members—on the citizens of my city and my nation.