Meanwhile...

Meanwhile, Imam Ali (A) confined

himself to his house to collect the Holy Quran, after realizing the

fruitlessness of his efforts to regain his rights. He was virtually

secluded from the outside world. This situation was disadvantageous

to the coup leaders, for in Ali's refusal to pledge allegiance to Abu Bakr

lies a deep meaning and an excuse for others to object to Abu Bakr's

Yet, opinions met of the necessity to bring Ali (A) by force to the

Mosque, whatever the price may be. Especially in light of the fact,

which they later came to realize, that he was more concerned about

the Islamic interests than his own. Therefore, a commissioned force

led by Umar's slave boy, Qunfud, was sent to Ali's house. When this

force reached the house, Qunfud requested permission to enter so

they may speak to him regarding the issue; but Ali (A) refused them

permission to enter; after which they returned to the Mosque and said

to Abu Bakr and Umar: "We were refused permission to enter."

Umar said: "Go back and if you are denied permission again, then

So the group once again asked for permission, but Fatima (A) said:

"You are prohibited from entering my house without permission."

Events continued to occur, and two pictures are drawn in front to us:

First: Umar orders his slave boy to start Fatima's house on fire! A man

objects by saying: "But Fatima is in it."

Second: (According to Jahiz and the author of Abaqat Al-Anwar): The

Prophet assigned Ali (A) as his successor. All the companions had full

knowledge of this assignment. Yet, Umar forges the fact for the sake

of Abu Bakr and strikes Fatima's womb, which caused her to miscarry

(Two pictures with no comments.)

At any rate, Ali (A) was forced to the Mosque. When Fatima Zahra (A)

saw this, she followed him and addressed Abu Bakr by saying:

"Do you wish to make me a widow?!