Who Was Mola Ali (رضي الله عنه)?

Hazrat Ali (رضي الله عنه) was one of the most respected companions of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). He was known as “Asadullah” (Lion of Allah) and “Share-e-Khuda” (The Sword of Allah) for his unmatched bravery and wisdom. Some of his key contributions include:

• The first child to accept Islam at a young age.
• A key figure in the battles of Islam, including Badr, Uhud, and Khandaq.
• The gatekeeper of knowledge, as the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “I am the city of knowledge, and Ali is its gate.”
• The husband of Hazrat Fatima (رضي الله عنها) and the father of Imam Hasan (رضي الله عنه) and Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه).
• The fourth Rightly Guided Caliph (Khalifa-e-Rashid) from 656 CE to 661 CE.

Events Leading to the Martyrdom of Mola Ali (رضي الله عنه)

During his caliphate, Hazrat Ali (رضي الله عنه) faced internal strife and political challenges. A group called the Khawarij, who had rebelled against his rule, planned to assassinate him.

On the 19th of Ramadan, 40 AH (661 CE), while leading the Fajr Salah in Masjid-e-Kufa, a Kharijite named Abdul Rahman Ibn Muljam struck Hazrat Ali (رضي الله عنه) on the head with a poisoned sword. After being severely wounded, he remained alive for two days, engaging in zikr (remembrance of Allah) and advising his followers on piety and justice.

Finally, on 21st Ramadan, 40 AH, he attained martyrdom and returned to his Lord. His last words were:

“I swear by the Lord of the Kaaba, I have succeeded.”

Teachings and Legacy of Hazrat Ali (رضي الله عنه)

Hazrat Ali (رضي الله عنه) left behind an immense legacy of knowledge, wisdom, and governance. His teachings on justice, humility, and devotion to Allah continue to inspire generations. Some of his famous sayings include:

• “Silence is the best reply to a fool.”
• “Do not let your difficulties fill you with anxiety, after all, it is only in the darkest nights that stars shine more brightly.”
• “Patience is of two kinds: patience over what pains you and patience against what you covet.”
• “The strongest among you is the one who controls his anger.”

How Ahl-e-Sunnat Observes 21st Ramadan

In Sunni traditions, particularly those followed by Dawat-e-Islami and Barelvi scholars, the day of 21st Ramadan is observed with:

• Quranic recitation and Nawafil prayers.
• Special Durood-o-Salam and Naats in honor of Mola Ali (رضي الله عنه).
• Majalis (gatherings) discussing his virtues and sacrifices.
• Charity (Sadaqah and Khairaat) in his memory.
• Duas for guidance and steadfastness on the path of Islam.

Ala Hazrat’s Love for Hazrat Ali (رضي الله عنه)

Ala Hazrat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Barelvi (رحمة الله عليه) held immense respect for Hazrat Ali (رضي الله عنه) and often mentioned his superiority in knowledge, bravery, and closeness to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). He also composed beautiful Na’ats and Manqabats in praise of Mola Ali (رضي الله عنه).

Conclusion

The martyrdom of Hazrat Ali (رضي الله عنه) is a reminder of the sacrifices made for Islam and the importance of justice, wisdom, and devotion to Allah. As Ahl-e-Sunnat, we remember and honor him with love and reverence, seeking to follow his teachings in our daily lives.

May Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) grant us the ability to walk in the footsteps of Hazrat Ali (رضي الله عنه) and uphold the values of truth, patience, and justice. Ameen.