In the Name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful
From Ali, the Commander of the Faithful (A.S.), to the people of Kufa, the stronghold of the supporters of Islam and the noble summit of the Arab community.
After praising Allah:
I wish to inform you about the affair of Uthman so that hearing it will be like witnessing it with your own eyes.
The people raised many objections against him. As one of the Muhajirun (the Emigrants), I frequently sought to guide and reform him while reproaching him as little as possible.
As for Talha and al-Zubayr, their actions against him were far more severe, and their pressure upon him was much harsher.
As for A’ishah, she acted out of a sudden burst of anger regarding him.
Eventually, a group of people killed him.
Afterward, the people pledged allegiance to me willingly—not under compulsion or coercion, but by their own free choice and consent.
Know that Madinah, the City of Migration, has been shaken together with its people, and they have been shaken with it. The turmoil has boiled like a cauldron, and the fires of tribulation have been ignited.
Therefore, hasten to your leader and quickly prepare yourselves to struggle against your enemy, if Allah wills.
Historical Background
This letter was written by Imam Ali (A.S.) while traveling from Madinah to Basra before the Battle of the Camel.
Its purpose was to inform the people of Kufa about the events surrounding the assassination of Uthman, clarify Imam Ali’s own position during those events, and invite the people of Kufa to support the legitimate Islamic leadership against those who had initiated rebellion and civil conflict.
The letter also emphasizes that Imam Ali’s caliphate was established through the free and voluntary pledge of the Muslim community rather than by force or coercion.
Key Lessons
- Truth should be established through accurate knowledge rather than rumors.
- Leaders should sincerely advise and reform others before resorting to criticism.
- Legitimate leadership is strengthened through the willing support of the people.
- During times of social unrest, believers should stand beside truth and justice rather than remain passive.
- Unity under righteous leadership is essential for preserving the stability of the Muslim community.
Related Articles
- Nahj al-Balagha – Letter 1: Imam Ali (A.S.) to the People of Kufa
- Nahj al-Balagha – Letter 2: Imam Ali (A.S.) After the Victory of Basra
- The Battle of the Camel in Nahj al-Balagha
- The Letters of Imam Ali (A.S.) in Nahj al-Balagha
- Wisdom 1 – The Illuminated Path: Commentary on the Wisdoms of Nahj al-Balagha
- Wisdom 2 – The Illuminated Path: Commentary on the Wisdoms of Nahj al-Balagha
- Wisdom 3 – The Illuminated Path: Commentary on the Wisdoms of Nahj al-Balagha
- Wisdom 4 – The Illuminated Path: Commentary on the Wisdoms of Nahj al-Balagha