Imam Ali

Ali ibn Abi Talib (c. 600–661 CE) was a leading figure in early Islam, a cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, and a prominent companion in the formative Muslim community. He became the fourth Rashidun caliph (r. 656–661), ruling during the First Fitna, a period of civil conflict. In Shi’a Islam he is revered as the first Imam and as Muhammad’s rightful successor. Ali is remembered for his piety, learning, and eloquence. Many sermons, letters, and aphorisms attributed to him were later compiled in *Nahj al-Balagha*, a collection assembled by al-Sharif al-Radi in the 10th–11th century.