The Life of Imam Ali (a.s) > The Commander of The Faithful at a quick glance

After the Prophet's death, events continued to occur. When studying the era following the Prophet's death, history speaks of the wonders which occurred.

Indeed, history tells us about "Apostasy" which included the majority of Muslims who objected to Abu Bakr's seize of power from its righteous candidate, Ali Ibn Abu Talib (a.s).

It also tells us how Fatima's rights were usurped- especially in Fadak-and how Ali was dragged to the Mosque to pay allegiance to Abu Bakr!!

History tells us how Fatima's house was set on fire by him who yesterday pretended not to believe in her father's death.

Yes, history tells us how the Prophet (p.b.u.h) died and with him died his repeated warnings to those who would oppress his family members and that they will be met with the wrath of Allah. It also tells us of Lady Fatima's sadness and misery which she suffered after the death of her dear father.

"It was on the eighth day after the Prophet's death that Fatima revealed the extent of her sadness and inability to bear life without her father. She (a.s) came to the Mosque and while crying said:

"Fatima (a.s) then proceeded towards the tomb of the Prophet; it was difficult for her to walk because her tears covered her eyes. When she saw the Mizaneh, she passed out; so the women rushed to rescue her; after putting water of her face, she regained consciousness; Fatima then said.

Surely precise revelations, the place of Gabriel's descendence and Michael's location have vanished after you,

Angels cry for you, and stars cease to move because of you. Your minbar (after you) is gloomy, Your minbar is empty of your secret conversation (with your Lord). Your grave is joyful for holding you,'

How pained Jam for you, until I soon join you!! How bereaved is Abu Al-Hussan, The entrusted one!!

He who you brought up as a youth, and made your brother as a man. (Abu Al-Hassan)

The most beloved of your companions to you. Abu Al-Hassan, who was the first to immigrate and help you.

Sadness has overtaken us, 'Crying will kill us; And distress will always accompany us.'

Lady Fatima (a.s) then returned to her house and lived in misery and sadness until she joined her beloved father not long after he passed away."

After the Messenger of Allah, Abu Bakr seized Caliphate. He and his followers claimed that since he was unanimously elected by the Muslims, he was the righteous leader of the Ummah.

Yet, with little reflection upon the matter of Caliphate, one realizes that it is an extension and continuation of the Prophethood without revelation. Thereupon, since Prophethood can only be assigned to someone through Divine specification, likewise Caliphate can not be assigned to any-one by mankind; rather, it is a Divine code bestowed upon men by Divine specification.

Moreover, this consensus which Abu Bakr and his followers claim to have achieved is not valid; because the Ansar, Bani Hashim, Ammar, Salman, Miqdad, Abu Dhar and many other companions opposed the election of Abu Bakr to the Divine post which was previously granted to Ali (a.s).

Nevertheless, Abu Bakr was able to seize power and eradicate Ali's (a.s) and his followers attempts to regain his righteous post.

Several factors can be cited to have motivated some Muslims to choose Abu Bakr as their leader:

1. Resentment to see both Prophethood and Imamate posts occupied by Bani Hashim. This factor was revealed by Umar in a long conversation with Ibn Abbas: According to Umar:

If Prophethood and Imamate posts were both occupied by Bani Hashim, then they would constantly brag about them!!

4. Ali (a.s) would lead and judge people according to righteousness and the right path, had he been chosen as the leader, as Umar stated.

It is inevitable after Abu Bakr seized power that Ali (a.s) should pay allegiance to him, for it is the natural path of every coup to force the opposition to announce its support to the -new regime. But what can they do with Ali who refused to pledge allegiance to Abu Bakr?

Can they threaten him? But he is the famous hero who was able to extinguish the Arab heroes, kill their brave men, and compete with their "wolves" !!

Can they deceive him (a.s) into doing so?! But Ali is that cautious man who is aware in such matters!!

But behold! What would Lady Fatima's stand be had Ali (a.s) been forced to pledge allegiance to Abu Bakr? In other Words, what can be done if Lady Fatima (a.s) chooses to defend her husband?!

This created an unsolvable problem for the coup leaders who spent long hours reflecting on the issue. Meanwhile, Imam Ali (a.s) 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 seizure of power.

Yet, opinions met of the necessity to bring Ali (a.s) 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.s) refused them permission to enter; after which they returned to the Mosque and said to Abu Bakr and Umar:

Umar said: "Go back and if you are denied permission again, then enter (the house) with force."

So the group once again asked for permission, but Fatima (a.s) said: "You are prohibited from entering my house without permission."

Upon hearing this, the members of the force went back-save Qunfud. They informed Umar that they were not allowed to enter the house. This angered Umar who said:

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

The Prophet (p.b.u.h) assigned Ali (a.s) 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 Mohsen.

At any rate, Ali (a.s) was forced to the Mosque. When Fatima Zahra (a.s)) saw this, she followed him and addressed Abu Bakr by saying:

"Do you wish to make me a widow?! By Allah if you do not let him go, I will uncover my head, rip my shirt, and go to my Father's tomb and cry to my Lord..."

So she (a.s) took Al-Hassan and Al-Hussain's hands and proceeded towards her father's (p.b.u.h) tomb!

When Imam Ali (a.s) saw the seriousness of the situation, he immediately interfered and said to Salman:

"Prevent Muhammad's daughter (form reaching her father's grave) for surely I can see the outskirts of Medina being sunk into the earth."

"I was near Lady Fatima when, by Allah, I saw the foundations of the Mosque's walls being elevated up to a point that had a man wanted to go from under them, he would have been able to do so. So I said: 'My Mistress, surely Allah, the Exalte4 sent your father to be mercy, thus do not become the cause of His wrath."

These noble stands of Fatima, forced Abu Bakr and Umar to release Ali (a.s); Fatima (a.s) returned home after setting the most honorable example of devotion to her husband.

As we have already mentioned, Abu Bakr sent Umar to Fatima's house with orders to compel Ali and his friends to come and pledge allegiance to him. If they could not be persuaded by fair means, Umar was going to set the house on fire. When Fatima asked him what he meant, he told her that he would certainly burn the house down unless they would be content to do as the rest of the people had done.

Knowing Umar's temper, Ali and his friends chose to come out of the house. Imam Ali, who was accompanied by Abbas and Zubair, reproached Umar's party saying:

"O you Muhajirs! You claim the succession to the Prophet of Allah preferring your priority in Islam and your kinship to him before the Ansars. Now I put forward the same arguments in preference to you. Am I not the first who believed in the Prophet before any of you embraced his faith? Am I not the nearest in relation to the Prophet than any of you?

Fear Allah, if you are true believers, and do not snatch away the Prophet's authority from his house to your own."

Standing behind the door, Fatima (a.s) reproachfully addressed the raiding people thus:

"O people! You left behind the Prophet's dead body to us and proceeded to wring out the Caliphate for yourselves, extinguishing our rights."

"O Father! 0 Prophet of Allah! How soon after you troubles are pouring on us at the hands of the son of Khattab (Umar) and the son of Abu Quhafa (Abu Bakr). How soon they have ignored your words at Ghadir Al-Khum and your saying that Ali was to you as Haroun was to Musa."

Hearing Fatima's wailing, most of the people in Umar's party turned back. Mi was, however, taken to Abu Bakr and was asked to swear allegiance to him.

He was answered: "By Allah, we shall kill you if you do not do as others have done."

"What! Will you kill a man who is a ser ant of the Lord and a brother of the Prophet of the Lord?"

"We do not acknowledge you as a brother of the Prophet of the Lord," and addressed Abu Bakr, who was silent, requesting him to speak out Ali's fate. But (it was claimed) Abu Bakr said that so long as Fatima was alive, he would not compel her husband to do so. So Ali (a.s) departed and proceeded directly to the tomb of the Prophet where he cried out:

"O my brother! Your people now treat me with contempt and are bent on killing me."

Fatima-the only surviving child of the Prophet, his most beloved- claimed inheritance of the property which could be apportioned to her in the lands of Medina and in Khaibar, as also Fadak, which having been acquired without the use of force, the Prophet (p.b.u.h) had given her for her maintenance, in accordance with the commands of Allah.56 Yet, Fadak became an arena for political games when Abu Bakr refused to transfer it to Fatima. It is appropriate here to speak about Fadak before clarifying the corresponding events which occurred in its regard:

Fadak was a village located at a two-day walking distance from Medina. Apparently, it was inhabited by Jews who refused to submit to Islam at the beginning, but when the later realized the might of the Muslims, especially after they4ed by Ali Ibn Abu Talib-conquered Khaibar, the Jews decided to yield to the Messenger of Allah (p.b.u.h) without fighting. So he (p.b.u.h) took possession of the village.

The village was valued at 100,000 dirhams by Umar s appraisers when he expelled its inhabitants to Syria. Umar took possession of the village and paid half of the price to the Jews.

Since the reason which motivated the inhabitants of Fadak to transfer its possession to Allah's Messenger was fear of the

Muslims after they had conquered Khaibar, this property became the sole possession of the Prophet (p.b.u.h). This conforms to Allah's decree in the Holy Quran:

"What Allah has bestowed on His Apostle (and taken away) from them-for this (which) ye made no expedition with either calvary or camelry: But Allah gives power to His Apostles over any He pleases: and Allah Has power over all things."

There was no dispute between the Muslims that Fadak belonged to the Prophet (p.b.u.h); rather, the disagreement was related to how much Fadak had the Jews granted him as part of the peace settlement. Thus, it is strange to hear Abu Bakr narrate a tradition from the Prophet saying:

"We the group of Prophets do not inherit, nor are we inherited; what we leave is for alms!!" Because, had the Prophet (p.b.u.h) actually said so (which is doubted), how did Abu Bakr understand from this saying that Fadak did not belong to him (p.b.u.h). There is clear contradiction in Abu Bakr's arguments.

Therefore, after realizing beyond doubt that Fadak was the personal property of Allah's Messenger (p.b.u.h), it is appropnate to inquire as to what he did with it? But the answer is clear. He (p.b.u.h) granted it to Fatima (a.s) before his death. In other words, Fadak became the personal property of Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s). Moreover, it is not for anyone to object to the Prophet for granting his own property to any person he wished-including his daughter.

Moreover, the following factors can be cited as proofs that the Prophet (p.b.u.h) granted Fadak to his noble daughter (a.s):

"Surely Fadak was granted to me by my father, the Messenger of Allah (p.b.u.h)."

Especially in light to the fact that her infallibility prevents her from uttering falsehood or from demanding that which does not

3. Ali (a.s) the infallible Imam, would not allow his wife to demand something which did not belong to her.

"Yes! Fadak was the only land from that which was under the heavens, in our hands; but the inclinations of certain men lusted for it and the souls of others relinquished it."

Hence, had it been part of the Prophet's inheritance, he (a.s) would not have said that it belonged to them (Ali and Fatima).

5. Imam Ali (a.s) together with Um Ayman testified to the fact thet Allah's Messenger (p.b.u.h) granted it to Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s), when Abu Bakr requested Fatima to summon witnesses that he (p.b.u.h) granred it to her.

Yet, despite these undisputable proofs, Abu Bakr denied Fatima possessin of Fadak and brought the following as proof of the correctness of his action:

1. According to Abu Bakr, Fadak did not belong to the Messenger of Allah (p.b.u.h); it rather was the property of all Muslims.

2. Besides, according to Abu Bakr, even if it belonged to the Prophet of Allah (p.b.u.h) he had heard him (p.b.u.h) saying:

"My inheritance is not to be divided after me, even if it is one dinar or dirham. That which I leave is alms, save what is to maintain my wives and dependents."

However, when these hypothetical points made by Abu Bakr are put on the board of discussion, free from ideological or emotional prejudgments, and far from blind sanctification of the early followers of Islam, we can record the following points against them:

1. It is true that he denied the Prophet's ownership of Fadak, but all the Muslims-whether early Muslims or nowadays-unanimously agree that Fadak was the sole possession of Allah's Prophet (p.b.u.h). This fact is also supported by the Quranic verse which we have already mentioned. Therefore, Abu Bakr's claim is invalidated for being a mere endeavor to null the effect of the Quran.

"We the group of prophets do not inherit, nor are we inherited, what we leave is for alms,"

A. This narration is irrelevant regarding this issue; because we have already stated that Fadak was a grant from the Prophet (p.b.u.h) to his daughter before he died. So it is inappropriate to quote a narration related to the issue of inheritance with the purpose of denying Lady Fatima (a.s) her property.

B. This narration was only reported by one man-who is Abu Bakr, himself-and since the Holy Quran stated a general rule concerning inheritance, the Prophets and their heirs are included in this rule. So Abu Bakr's claim can not be taken as proof versus the Holy Quran, nor can it be proof for excluding the prophets and their families from the Quranic rule.

C. Yet, the real reasons which provoke Abu Bakr and his followers to deprive Fatima Zahra (a.s) from her own property, despite the fact that the Prophet (p.b.u.h) said:

"Fatima is part of me, lie who loves her loves me, and he angers her angers me,"

had more dangerous and implicit motives behind them, and were directly related to the political events of that time.

3. As for Abu Hurairah's narration; it is sufficient for us to keep in mind that he was famous for forging Prophetic traditions. Even he, himself, admitted this; and anyone wishing to study more about his life, should refer to Sheik Al-Madhirah - Abu Hurairah Dowsi, written by Mahmoud Abu Raieh.

The history books at hand need thorough examination and revision, for they have been recorded according to the wishes and satisfactions of despotic rulers throughout history. In view of this, and in light of the fact that Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) was a strong supporter of her husband in his quest to regain Caliphate, and that her views were proof that the followers of Imam Ali (a.s) can use it to easily verify his claims against Abu Bakr; we can easily understand how Abu Bakr was successful in depriving Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) of her rights, and how his moves corresponded to his adopted political thinking. So, not only was Abu Bakr able to persuade the Muslims to dismiss Fatima's stands as those of a woman who can be depended upon even in such a secondary issue like Fadak, but also he aimed at convincing them that since she was not to be believed in such a matter, she was also to be deserted when it comes to the most important issue of that time (i.e.,Caliphate).

Yet, there are more motives that can be spotted to have led Abu Bakr to usurp Fatima Zahra's (a.s) property. Among them are:

1. Since Fadak brought large profits to its owners, Ali (a.s) could use this profit in his fight against Abu Bakr just as Khadija was able to put her wealth to use against the infidels.

2. The political challenge which Abu Bakr created here, was aimed at proving to Ali and Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) that the nation was not ready to aid them in an emotional issue in which he was successful in downgrading All and Fatima by controlling and directing the public opinion. Listen to Abu Bakr as he speaks to the people after Fatima's speech in the Mosque:

"O people! What is this attentiveness to every aimless speech?! Where were these claims at the time of Allah's Messenger (p.b.u.h)?

He who witnessed anything should speak out! Surely they are (Ali and Fatima, like) foxes who have no witnesses save their tails!

They are like Um Taha (a woman who was a prostitute during the era of ignorance) whose family chose prostitution for her.

Surely if I wish I can say a lot; and had I said (something), would have revealed (much). But I will remain silent as long as I am left alone."

3. Abu Bakr's drive to deprive Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) of her property had another underlying motive. Had Abu Bakr admitted Fatima's words in regard to Fadak as undisputable facts, she could also claim her husband's right to leadership, which would force Abu Bakr to hand it back to Ali (a.s).

I then asked: "Then why did the Caliph not give that which she was entitled to back to her?"

"If he had accepted her word on that day and had returned Fadak to her on account of her being a truthful woman and without asking for any witnesses, she could very well use this position for the benefit of her husband on the following day and say:

My husband, Ali is entitled to the Caliphate, and then the Caliph would have been obliged to surrender the Caliphate to Ali on account of his having acknowledged her to be a truthful woman. However, in order to obviate any such claim or dispute, he deprived her of her undisputed right!"

4. Moreover, there were several emotional factors which lead Abu Bakr to refuse Fatima, Khadija's daughter, her rights. Some of these factors are:

A. Once, the Prophet of Allah (p.b.u.h) sent Abu Bakr to the Muslims, during Hajj season, to recite for them the newly revealed Surah Al-Tawbah, but before reaching his destination, Abu Bakr was stopped by Ali Ibn Abu Talib who informed him that the Messenger commanded him to deliver the Surah himself; because according to the Prophet (p.b.u.h):

This surely creates a feeling of envy in a man's heart!! A matte which can be said to have influenced Abu Bakr himself.

B. When the Prophet was too ill to lead the prayers, Abu Bakr was asked by his daughter, Aisha, to do so. But as soon as Allah's Messenger (p.b.u.h) learned what was going on, he, supported by Imam Mi and Abbas, came out and removed Abu Bakr and led the prayers himself. The author of Fatima Um Abiha says in this regard:

"This event might have led Abu Bakr to think that Fatima was the one who informed the Prophet (p.b.u.h) of Abu Bakr's actions, just as Aisha told him (Abu Bakr) to lead the prayers!"

C. Aisha, the Prophet's wife and Abu Bakr's daughter, had uncalled for feelings towards Fatima and her mother, Khadija.

"Despite the fact that Khadija died three years before the Prophet married me, I did not have a feeling of envy for anyone as much as I had for her. This was because he (the Prophet) used to mention her name constantly and he was ordered by His Almighty Lord to give her the good news of a house made of brocade in Paradise. He also used to slaughter sheep and distribute their meat among her (Khadija's) friends."

This undoubtedly led Abu Bakr to join his daughter in her feelings towards Khadija, her daughter (Fatima) and her son-in-law (Ali a.s).

D. Aisha, Abu Bakr's daughter was sterile. Yet Klhadija (a.s) was the only wife of the Prophet who had children that survived. Moreover, that child of Khadija was Aisha's main adversary, Fatima. So the Messenger of Allah's descendants would only come from his daughter and her husband, Ali. This surely was an unwelcomed fact to Aisha and her father, Abu Bakr.

Fatima (a.s) felt grieved by Abu Bakr's actions, and was so displeased with him that when she knew of his attempt to seize Fadak, she accompanied a group of women to the mosque. There she sat down and delivered the following speech:

Praise be to Allah for that which He bestowed (upon us); And thanks be to Him for all that which He inspired; and commended in His Name for that which He Provided:

Form prevalent favors which He created, And abundant benefactions which He offered and perfect grants which He presented; (such benefactions) that their number is much too plentiful to compute; Bounties too vast to measure;

He recommended to them (His ct'eatures) to gain more (of His benefaction) by being grateful for their continuity; He ordained Himself praiseworthy by giving generously to His creatures;

I bear witness that there is no God but Allah Who is One without partner, a statement which sincere devotion is made to be its interpretation;

hearts guarantee its continuation, and illuminated in the minds is its sensibility. He Who can not be perceived with vision; neither be described with tongues; nor can imagination surround His state.

He originated things but not from anything that existed before them, and created them without examples to follow. Rather, He created them with His might and dispersed them according to His will; not for a need did He create them; nor for a benefit (for Him) did He shape them, But to establish His wisdom, Bring attention to His obedience, manifest His might, lead His creatures to humbly venerate Him, and to exalt His decrees. He then made the reward for His obedience, And punishment for his disobedience, so as to protect His creatures from His Wrath and amass them into His Paradise.

I too bear witness that my Father, Muhammad, is His Slave and Messenger, Whom He chose prior to sending him, named him before sending him; when creatures were still concealed in that which was transcendental, guard ed from that which was appalling and associated with the termination and nonexistence. For Allah the Exalted knew that which was to follow, comprehended that which will come to pass, And realized the place of every event.

Allah has sent him (Muhammad) (p.b.u.h) as perfection for His commands, a resolution to accomplish His rule, and an implementation of the decrees of His Mercy. So he found the nations to vary in their faiths; Obsessed by their fires, Worshipping their idols, And denying Allah despite their knowledge of Him. Therefore, Allah illuminated their darkness with my Father, Muhammad, (p.b.u.h) uncovered obscurity from their hearts, and cleared the clouds from their insights. He revealed guidance among the people; So he delivered them from being led astray, led them away from misguidance, guided them to the proper religion, and called them to the straight path.

Allah then chose to recall him back in mercy, love and preference. So, Muhammad (p.b.u.h) is in comfort from the burden of this world, he is surrounded with devoted angels, the satisfaction of the Merciful Lord, and the nearness of the powerful King. So may the praise of Allah be upon my Father, His Prophet, Trusted one, the chosen one from among His creatures, and His sincere friend, and may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

(Fatima then turned to the crowd and said:) Surely you are Allah s slaves at His command Prohibition; You are the bearers of His religion and revelation; You are Allah's trusted ones with yourselves; and His messengers to the nations.

Amongst you does He have righteous authority; A covenant He brought unto you, and an heir He left to guard you; That is The eloquent book of Allah; The truthful Quran; The brilliant light; The shining beam; Its insights are indisputable; Its secrets are revealed; Its indications are manifest, and its followers are blessed by it. (The Quran) leads its adherents to goodwill; and Hearing it leads to salvation; with it are the bright divine authorities achieved, His manifest determination acquired, His prohibited decrees avoided; His manifest evidence recognized; His satisfying proofs made apparent, His permissions granted, and His laws written. So Allah made belief to be a purification for you from polytheism.

He made: Prayer-An exaltation for you from conceit. Alms-A purification for the soul and a (cause of) growth in subsistence. Fasting-An implantation of devotion.

Pilgrimage-A construction of religion. Justice-A harmony of the hearts; Obeying us (Ahlul-Bayt) Management of the nation. Our leadership (Ahlul-Bayt):

Jihad (struggle)- A strengthening of Islam. Patience-A helping course for deserving (divine) reward.

Kindness to the parents-A safeguard from wrath. Maintaining close relations with one's kin-A cause for a longer life and multiplying the number of descendants.

Completion of weights and measures-A cause for preventing the neglect of others' rights. Forbiddance of drinking wine- An exaltation from atrocity. Avoiding slander-A veil from curse. Abandoning theft-a reason for deserveing chastity. Allah has also prohibited polytheism so that one can devote himself to His Lordship.

Obey Allah in that which He has commanded you to do and that which He has forbidden, for surely those truly fear among His servants, who have knowledge.

"O People! Be informed that I am Fatima, and my father is Muhammad (p.b.u.h) I say that repeatedly and initiate it continually, I say not what I say mistakenly, nor do I do what I do aimlessly. Now hath come unto you an Apostle from amongst yourselves; ft grieves him that you should perish;

Thus, if you identify and recognize him, you shall realize that he is my father and not the father of any of your women; the brother of my cousin (Ali (a.s) rather than any of your men.

What an excellent identity he was, may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him and his descendants.

Thus, he propagated the Message, by coming out openly with the warning and while inclined away from the path of the polytheists, (whom he) struck their strength and seized their throats, while he invited (all) to the way of his Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching;

He destroyed idols, and defeated heros, until their group fled and turned their backs.

So night revealed its dawn; righteousness uncovered its genuineness; the voice of the religious authority spoke out loud~ the evil discords were silenced; The crown of hypocrisy was diminished; the tightening of infidelity and desertion were untied, So you spoke the statement of devotion amongst a band of starved ones; and you were on the edge of a hole of fire; (you were) the drink of the thirsty one; the opportunity of the desiring one; the fire brand of him who passes in haste;

the step for feet; you used to drink from the water gathered on roads; eat jerked meat.(Lady Fatima (a.s) was stating their lowly situation before Islam)

You were despised outcasts always in fear of abduction from those around you. Yet, Allah rescued you through my father, Muhammad (p.b.u.h), after much ado, and after he was confronted by mighty men, the Arab beasts, and the demons of the people of the Book, Who, whenever they ignited the fire of war, Allah extinguished it; and whenever the thorn of the devil appeared, or a mouth of the polytheists opened wide in defiance, he (p.b.u.h) would strike its discords with his brother (Ali as), who comes not back until he treads its wing with the sole of his feet, and extinguishes its flames with his sword.

are dazzling; its restrictions are visible, and its commands are evident. Yet, indeed you have casted it behind your backs! What! (Ali is) diligent in Allah s affair, near to the Messenger of Allah, A master among Allah s worshippers, setting to work briskly, sincere in his advice, earnest and exerting himself (in service to Islam); While you were calm, gay, and feeling safe in your comfortable lives, waiting for us to meet disasters, awaiting the spread of news, you fell back during every battle, and took to your heels at times of fighting. Yet, When Allah chose His Prophet from the dwell of His prophets, and the abode of His sincere (servants); The thorns of hypocrisy appeared on you, the garment of faith became worn out, The misguided ignorant(s) spoke out, the sluggish ignorant came to the front and brayed. The he camel of the vain wiggled his tail in your courtyards and the your courtyards and the Devil stuck his head from its place of hiding and called upon you, he found you responsive to his invitation, and observing his deceits. He then aroused you and found you quick (to answer him), and invited you to wrath, therefore; you branded other than your camels and proceeded to other than your drinking places. Then while the era of the Prophet was still near, the gash was still wide, the scar had not yet healed, and the Messenger was not yet buried.

A (quick) undertaking as you claimed, aimed at preventing discord (trial), Surely, they have fallen into trial already/And indeed Hell surrounds the unbelievers. How preposterous! What an idea! What a falsehood! For Allah s Book is still amongst you, its affairs are apparent; its rules are manifest; its signs

Do you detest it? Or according to something else you wish to rule? Evil would be the exchange for the wrongdoers!And if anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah), it never will it be accepted from him; And in the hereafter, he will be in the ranks of those who have lost. Surely you have not waited until its stampede seized, and it became obedient. You then started arousing its flames, instigating its coal, complying with the call of the misled devil, quenching the light of the manifest religion, and extinguished the light of the sincere Prophet. You concealed sips on froth and proceeded towards his (the Prophet) kin and children in swamps and forests (meaning you plot against them in deceitful ways), but we are patient with you as if we are being notched with knives and stung by spearheads in our abdomens, Yet-now you claim that there is not inheritance for us!

But How, for a people whose faith is assured, can give better judgment than Allah? Don't you know? Yes, indeed it is obvious to you that I am his daughter.

O son of Abu Quhafa! Where is it in the Book of Allah that you inherit your father and I do not inherit mine?

Surely you have come up with an unprecedented thing. Do you intentionally abandon the Book ofAllah and cast it behind your back? Do you not read where it says:

And Sulaiman inherited Dawood'? And when it narrates the story of Zakariya and says:

So give me an heir as from thyselft (One that) will inherit me, and inherit the posterity of Yaqoob'

And: But kindred by hood have prior rights against each other in the Book of Allah'

And: Allah (thus) directs you as regards your children s (inheritance) to the male, a portion equal to that of two females'

And: '…If he leaves any goods, that he make a bequest to parents and next of kin, according to reasonable usage; this is due from the pious ones.'

You claim that I have no share! And that I do not inherit my father! What! Did Allah reveal a (Quranic) verse regarding you, from which He excluded my father?

Or do you say: 'These (Fatima and her father) are the people of two faiths, they do not inherit each other?!' Are we not, me and my father, a people adhering to one faith? Or is it that you have more knowledge about the specifications and generalizations of the Quran than my father and my cousin (Imam Ali)?

So, here you are! Take it! (Ready with) its nose rope and saddled! But if shall encounter you on the Day of Gathering; (thus) what a wonderful judge is Allah, a claimant is Muhammad~ and a day is the Day of Rising.

At the time of the Hour shall the wrongdoers lose; and it shall not benefit you to regret (your actions) then! For every Message, there is a time limit; and soon shall ye know who will be inflicted with torture that will humiliate him, and who will be confronted by an everlasting punishment.

O you people of intellect! The strong supporters of the nation!And those who embraced Islam; What is this short-coming in defending my right? And what is this slumber (while you see) injustice (being done toward me)?

How soon have you plotted against us? But you still are capable (of helping me in) my attempt, and powerful (to help me) in that which I request and (in) my pursuit (of it). Or do you say:

The Earth became darkened with his departure; the stars eclipsed for his calamity; hopes were seized; mountains submitted; sanctity was violated, and holiness was encroached upon after his death. Therefore, this, by Allah, is the great affliction, and the grand calamity; there is not an affliction-which is the like of it; nor will there be a sudden misfortune (as surprising as this).

The Book of Allah-excellent in praising him-announced in the courtyards (of your houses) in the place where you spend your evenings and mornings;

It had previously came upon His (Allah's) Prophets and Messengers; (for it is) A decree final, and a predestination fulfilled:

Muhammad is not but an Apostle. Many were the apostles that passed away before him. If he died or was slain, will ye then turn back on your heels? If any did turn back on his heels, not the least harm will he do to Allah; but Allah (on the other hand) will swiftly reward those who (serve Him) with gratitude.

O you people of reflection; will I be usurped the inheritance of my father while you hear and see me?! (And while) You are sitting and gathered around me? You hear my call, and are included in the (news of the) affair?

(But) You are numerous and well equipped! (You have) the means and the power, and the weapons and the shields. Yet, the call reaches you but you do not answer; the cry comes to you but you do not come to help? (This) While you are characterized by struggle, known for goodness and welfare, the selected group (which was chosen), and the best ones chosen by the Messenger (p.b.u.h) for us, Ahlul-Bayt. You fought the Arabs, bore with pain and exhaustion, struggled against the nations, and resisted their heroes.

We were still, so were you in ordering you, and you in obeying us. So that Islam became triumphant, the accomplishment of the days came near, the fort of polytheism was subjected, the outburst of fabrication subsided, the flames of infidelity calmed down, and the system of religion was well-ordered.

Thus, (why have you) become confused after clearness? Conceal matters after announcing them? Turned on your heels after daring? Associated (others with Allah) after believing?

Will you not fight people who violated their oaths? Plotted to expel the Apostle and became aggressive by being the first (to assault) you?

Do ye fear them? Nay, it is Allah Whom ye should more justly fear, if you believe! Nevertheless, I see that you are inclined to easy living; dismissed he who is more worthy of guardianship (Ali a.s); You secluded yourselves with meekness and dismissed that which you accepted. Yet, if you show ingratitude, ye and all on earth together, yet, Allah free of all wants, wrothy of all praise. Surely I have said all that I have said with full knowledge that you intent to forsake me, and knowing the betrayal which your hearts sensed. But, it is the state of soul, the effusion of fury, the dissemination of (what is) the chest and the presentation of the pro of Hence Here it is!

Bag it (leaders hi~ and) put it on the back of an ill shecamel, which has a thin hump,with everlasting grace, marked with the wrath of Allah, and the blame of ever (which leads to) the Fire of (the wrath of) Allah kindled (to a blaze), that which doth mount (right) to the hearts; For, Allah witnesses what you do, and soon will the unjust assailants know what vicissitudes their affairs will take!!And I am the daughter of a warner (the Prophet p.b.u.h) to you against a severe punishment. So, act and so will we, and wait, and we shall wait. (The end of Lady Fatima's speech.)

It appears from recorded historical events, that Lady Fatima (a.s) was successful at the beginning in persuading Abu Bakr to hand back Fadak to her; listen to part of a speech he (according to some historians) delivered after hearing Fatima's speech. He said:

"O daughter of the Messenger of Allah... Surely the Prophet is your father, not anyone else's, the brother of your husband, not any other man s; he surely preferred him over all his friends and (Ali) supported him in every important matter, no one loves you save the lucky and no one hates you save the wretched. You are the blessed progeny of Allah s Messenger, the chosen ones, our guides to goodness our path to Paradise, and you-the best of women-and the daughter of the best of prophets, truthful is your sayings, excelling in reason. You shall not be driven back from your right...But I surely heard your father saying: 'We the group of prophets do not inherit, nor are we inherited.'

Yet, this is my situation and property, it is yours (if you wish); it shall not be concealed from you, nor will it be stored away from you. You are the Mistress of your father's nation, and the blessed tree of your descendants. Your property shall not be usurped against your will, nor can your name be defamed. Your judgment shall be executed in all that which I possess. This, do you think that I violate your father's (will)?"

Fatima then refuted Abu Bakr's claim that the Prophet (p.b.u.h) had stated that prophets can not be inherited, and said:

Surely Allah's Messenger (p.b.u.h) did not abandon Allah's Book nor did he violate His commands. Rather, he followed its decrees and adhered to its chapters. So do you unite with treachery justifying your acts with fabrications? Indeed this-after his departure-is similar to the disasters which were plotted against him during his lifetime. But behold! This is Allah's Book, a just judge and a decisive speaker, saying:

Thus, He (Glory be to Him) made clear that which He made share of all heirs, decreed from the amounts of inheritance, allowed for males and females, and eradicated all doubts and ambiguities (pertaining to this issue which existed with the) bygones.

But your minds have made up a tale (that may pass) with you, but (for me) patience is most fitting against that which ye assert; it is Allah (alone) whose help can be sought."

It is apparent that Abu Bakr chanced the mode with which he addressed Lady Fatima (~4~B.) after delivering her speech. Listen to his following speech; which is his reply to Fatima's just reported speech.

Abu Bakr said: "Surely Allah and His Apostle are truthful, and so has his (the Prophet's) daughter told the truth. Surely you are the source of wisdom, the element of faith, and the sole authority. May Allah not refute your righteous argument, nor invalidate your decisive speech. But these are the Muslims between us-who have entrusted me with leadership and it was according to their satisfaction that I received what I have. I am not being arrogant, autocratic, or selfish, and they are my witnesses."

Upon hearing Abu Bakr speak of the people's support for him, Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) turned towards them and said:

"0 people, who rush towards uttering falsehood and are indifferent to disgraceful and losing actions!

Do you not earnestly seek to reflect upon the Quran, or are your hearts isolated with locks? But on your hearts is the stain of the evil which you committed; it has seized your hearing and your sight, evil is that which you justzfied cursed is that which you reckoned, and wicked is what you have taken for an exchange! You shall, by Allah, find bearing it (to be a great) burden, and its consequence disastrous. (That is) on the day when the cover is removed and appears to you what is behind it of wrath. When you will be confronted by Allah with that which you could never have expected, there will perish, there and then, those who stood on falsehoods."

Although parts of Abu Bakr's speeches can not be verified with authentic evidence, and despite the fact that we have already mentioned part of the actual speech which Abu Bakr delivered after Lady Fatima's arguments, it appears certain that Abu Bakr was finally persuaded to submit Fadak to her.

Nevertheless, when Fatima was leaving Abu Bakr's house, Umar suddenly appeared and exclaimed:

Abu Bakr replied: "A decree I have written for Fatima in which I assigned Fadak and her fatehr's inheritance to her.

Umar then said: "With what will you spend on the Muslims if the Arabs decide to fight you?!

In addition to being a reason encouraging others to be unjust to Ahlul-Bayt, the usurping of Fadak by Abu Bakr ignited political unrest throughot history. Sheik Jafar Subhani, a leading historian, wrote the following in his book The Message P.60 1 regarding Fadak throughout history:

"The foundation of the deprivation of the descendants of Fatima s claim of Fadak was laid in the time of the First Callph. After the martyrdom of Ali, Mu awiyah assumed the reins of government and divided Fadak amongst three persons (Marwan, Amr bin Uthman and his own son, Yazid). During the preriod of the Caliphate of Marwan, all three shares were assumed by him and he gifted them to his son, AbdulAziz. He, in turn, gave the same to his son, Umar. On account of the fact that Umar Bin Abdul Aziz was an upright person from amongst Bani Umayyah, the frist heresy which he removed was that he returned Fadak to the descendants of Fatima. After his death, however, the succeeding Umayyad Caliphs again took away Fadak from the Bani Hashim and it continued to remain in their possession till their rule came to an end.

During the Caliphate of Bani Abbas, the question of Fadak vacillated in a strange manner. For example, Saffah gave it to Abdullah Bin Hassan and after him Mansur Dawaniqi took it back but his son Mahdi returned it to the descendants of Zahrah. After him Musa and Harun took it a way from them on account of some political considerations. When Ma`mun assumed the office of caliph, he handed it over formally to its owner. After his death, the conditions of Fadak vacillated once again and it was returned at one time to the descendants of Fatima and then taken away from them again.

During the periods of the Caliphate of Bani Umayah and Bani Abbas, Fadak assumed largely a political aspect as compared with its pecuniaiy aspect. And even if the First Caliphs were in need of income from Fadak the later Caliphs and nobles were so rich that they did not stand in any need of income from it. Hence, when Umar Bin Abdul Aziz handed over Fadak to the descendants of Fatima, Bani Umayyah reproached him and said,' By this act of your, you have found fault with the two venerable men (viz. Abu Bakr and Umar).' They, therefore, persuaded him to distribute the income from Fadak among the descendants of Fatima, but to keep its ownership with himself."

When political opposition fails, silent protest starts. This kind of protest can be more effective than the first, because in addition to having the benefits of offending and disapproving of the opponent's acts, it also gives the person the chance of keeping calm and tranquil.

Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) acted in such a manner when she realized that with the weaknesses which afflicted her, she could not prevail. So she took refuge in a house in Baqi' near the tombs of martyrs, to cry for her father and complain to him about that which grieved her. Fatima (a.s) used to visit the great tomb of her father and take handful of the dirt from his grave and smell it then begin weeping. Fatima (a.s) would then return to her home and cry day and night. The elderly men of Medina came to Imam Ali (a.s) complaining and said:

"Abu Al-Hassan! Fatima cries day and night so none of us can sleep comfortably. Hence, we demand you to ask her to either cry during the day or the night.

He then proceeded towards Fatima who was crying; when she saw him approaching, she stopped and Imam Ali (a.s) said:

"Daughter of Allah's Messenger, the elderly men of Medina have asked me to ask you to either cry during the day or the night.

Fatima answered: "Abu Al-Hassan, how short will my stay among them be? And soon I will depart from them. Therefore, by Allah, I join my father-Allah s Messenger (p.b.u.h).

When Imam Ali (a.s) saw her insistence, he built a house for her behind Baqi' which later became known as "The house of grief's. Thereafter, with every sunrise, Fatima (a.s) would take Al-Hassan and Al-Hussain to that house and cry until sunet, when Imam Ali (a.s) would come. and bring them back home.

Once, Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) longed for the sound of Adhan-the call for prayer-which was performed by Bilal. But Bilal had taken an oath to never perform it again after the Prophet's death; nevertheless, in respect to Fatima's request, he decided to do so. Yet, as soon as Bilal said: "AllahuAkbar, Fatima (a.s) remembered the era of her great father (a.s) and started weeping, so that when Bilal said;

"I bear witness that Muhammad is His worshipper and Messenger, Fatima took a deep breath and fell unconscious. When Fatima (a.s) fell, the people requested Bilal to stop Adhan, because they believed that Fatima had died.

Now that the voice of rejection seized to reveal that which was in Fatima's heart, the language of tears spoke out for her; and as it is correctly said: "The language of tears, is more painful to the heart and sadder to the eyes !!

A life which Lady Fatima (a.s) endured and now it is coming to an end... even before it was given the chance to completely blossom!!

Surely the successive calamities and severe hardships which befell Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) while she was still young, left her with a broken rib and confined to bed, suffering from her broken rib and remembering what had come to pass and her devoted husband who was her safe refuge in whom she took refuge whenever abused...

She remembered him being led by his turban to the Mosque while she followed him...

She remembered all this and a gloomy picture appeared before her tired eyes... then a sigh becomes imprisoned deep in her heart...

That heart which longs for the great Messenger who gave her the good news of her speedy departure after him...

She whom the Prophet repeatedly expressed the importance of observing her rights!!

Yet, this did not stop the arrogant ones from encroaching on her rights, nor did it stop the sinful hands from reaching out to strangle the beautiful rose before it completely blossomed!!

Thus, the branch which the Prophet ~ left among his nation, withered away, its flowers became scattered, its branches wilted.

You shall depart towards a generous Lord and a great Father... then you shall complain to him about what you have encountered...

Write this in the pages of history... and tell the generations about Fatima's sad story!!

The moment when eternal separation starts is anguishing. This is a fact known to everyone who has experienced it, for it is the last opportunity for the beloved to be with his dear ones... then the inevitable, the predestined, happens. At such a moment, one is in earnest need of calmness and tranquility. Yet, many are the ones who mourn and break apart instead.

Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) was calm and patient when the women of the Muhajireen and Ansar came to visit her.

Suwaid Ibn Ghaflah said: "When Fatima was inflicted with her illness, the women of the Muhajireen an Ansar gathered around her and said: How are you doing daughter of Allah s Messenger?'

Fatima praised Allah, prayed for her father and said: "I have become, by Allah, to have feelings of resentment for your world, detesting your men; I have casted them after testing them, hated them after examining them. Thus, shameful is the defiling of honor, playing after being serious, striking the soft rocks, the slackening of spears, the foolishness of judgments and the misguidance of wants.

Evil indeed are (the works) which their souls have sent forward before them (with the result) that Allah's wrath is on them, and in torment will they abide.

Certainly it (Allah s wrath) has control of their affairs, held them responsible (for deserving it), and launched its disagreement on them.

How they have snatched it a way from the foundations of the Message, the fundamentals of prophethood and guidance, the place of descent for the Devoted Spirit, and he who is clever in the affairs of this world and the hereafter? (She means that they usurped Ali's right.)

They took vengeance, by Allah, from him, for his unbiased sword, his carelessness about his death (i.e., his unprecedented courage), his deadly assaults his severe encounters, and his anger for the sole sake of Allah, Exalted is His Name. By Allah, had they prevented each other from assuming the reigns of power, which Allah s Messenger entrusted to him, he (cuJZ3.) would have held it and led them smoothly,

Nor would his followers stammer, (meaning they would have lived in harmony under his rule).

He surely would have delivered them to a spring pure, lush, abundant, flowing over its banks-yet its sides are not muddy.

He certainly would have brought them back satisfied and advised them secretly and publicly without providing himself with any availing thing.

Nor would he favor himself with the worldly things with any gain, save that which would quench the thirst of the thirsty, and feed the hungry.

Surely the abstinent would have been distinguished from the desirous, and the truthful from her.

Had the people of the town believed and feared Allah, We should indeed have opened out to them (all kinds of) blessings from Heaven and Earth; but they rejected (the truth), and We brought them to book for their misdeeds.

And the wrongdoers of this generation; the results of their deeds will soon overtake them (too), and they will never be able to frustrate (Our Plan)!'

They have exchanged, by Allah, the daring for the tales and the capable for the impotent. Thus, away with a people who (mistakenly) believe they are doing well (to themselves);

Is he who guides towards truth more worthy to be followed, or the who finds not guidance (himself) unless he is guided?

But-upon my life! it has already conceived (meaning that it is too late to do anything).

And the ones who come to follow shall know the evil which their successors have established!

Then awaken the aversion in yourselves to your world! Prepare your hearts for calamities, Adapt yourselves to a sharp sword; an assault of a tyrant enemy, an overwhelming commotion, and atrocity from oppressors who shall leave your booty worthless, and your crops unharvested; Alas!

Swaid Ibn Ghaflah added: "The women informed their men what Lady Fatima Zahra (a.s) had said then a group of men went to her and said:

Had Abu Al-Hassan mentioned this to us before we made the oath, and gave the promise (to Abu Bakr), then surely we would not have exchanged him (Imam Ali A. S.) for anyone else!!!'

Fatima said: "Leave me alone! Surely there is not an excuse for you after (I have already) spoken to you; and there shall be no command after (I have seen) your shortcomings.

When we review Lady Fatima's (a.s) speech, it becomes clear to us that she blamed the people for accepting Abu Bakr's and Umar's leadership over Imam Ali (a.s). She also foretold of many calamities which would take place as a result of this misdeed. Fatima's predictions were true; Umar seized power after Abu Bakr appointed him as his successor to Caliphate. After Umar, Uthman was appointed leader; this started the era of explicit oppression against the Muslims. Imam Ali (a.s) in his sermon of Shiqshiqyyah pointed out the course of Caliphate and how it was transferred from one person to another until finally he was appointed leader-virtually by force. He (a.s) then explained how the same ones who paid allegiance to him turned against his rule which triggered unrest between the Muslims that had everlasting adverse effects. Imam Ali (a.s) also added his view on Caliphate and this world, in several eloquent words in this sermon. He (a.s) said:

"By Allah, the son of Abu Quhafa (Abu Bakr) dressed himself with it (the caliphate) and he certainly knew that my position in relation to it was the same as the position of the axis in relation to the handmill. The flood water flows down from me and the bird cannot fly unto me. I put a curtain against the Caliphate and kept myself detached from it. Then I began to think whether I should assault or endure calmly the blinding darkness of tribulations wherein the elders are feeled and the young grow old and the true believer acts under strain till he meets Allah (on his death). Ifound that endurance thereon was wiser. So I adopted patience although there was pricking in the eye and suffocation of my inheritance till the first one went his way but handed over the Caliphate to Ibn Khattab after himself

Then he quoted Aisha's verse: " My days now are passed on the camel's back (in difficulty), while there were days (of ease) when I enjoyed the company of Jabir's brother Hayyan.'"

It is strange that during his lifetime he wished to get rid of the Caliphate but he straightened its way for the other after his death. No doubt these two shared its udders strictly among themselves. This one put the Caliphate in a tough enclosure where the utterance was haughty and the tough was rough. Mistakes were in plenty and so also the excuses therefore. One in contact with it, was like the rider of an unruly camel. If he pulled up its rein the very nostril would be slit, but if he let it loose he would be thrown. Consequently, by Allah, people got involved in recklessness, wickedness, unsteadfastness, and deviation. Nevertheless, I remained patient despite the length of period and stiffness of trial, till when he went his way (by death), he put the matter (of Caliphate) in a group and regarded me to be one of them. But good Heavens! What had I to do with this consultation'? Where was any doubt about me with regard to the first of them that I was not considered akin to these ones. But I remained low when they were low and flew high. One of them turned against me because of his hatred and the other got inclined the other way due to his in-law relationship and this thing and that thing, till the third man of these people stood up with heaving breasts between his dung and fodder. With him, his cousins also stood up swallowing up Allah s wealth like a camel devouring the foliage of spring till his rope broke down, his actions finished him and his gluttony brought him down prostrate. At that moment, the crowd of people frightened me. ft advanced towards me from every side like the mane of the hyena so much so that Hassan and Hussain were getting crushed and both the ends of my shoulder garment were torn. They collected around me like a herd of sheep and goats. When I took up the reins of government, one party broke away and another turned disobedient while the rest began acting wrongfully as if they had not heard the word of Allah saying.

That abode in the hereafter, We assign it for those who intend not to exalt themselves in the earth, nor (to make) mischief (therein), and the end is (best) for the pious ones.' (28:83)

Yet, by Allah, they had heard it and understood it, but the world appeared glittering in their eyes and its embellishments seduced them. Behold, by Him who split the grain (to grow) and created living beings, if people had not come to me and supporters had not exhausted the argument and if there had been no pledge of Allah with the learned to the effect that they should not acquiesce the gluttony of the oppressor and the hunger of the oppressed, I would have cast the rope of Caliphate on its own shoulders and would have given the last one the same treatment as the first. Then you would have seen that in my view this world of yours is no better than the sneezing of a goat.

(It is said that when Amir Al-Mo'mineen reached here in his sermon, a man of Iraq stood up and handed him a writing. Amir Al-Momineen (a.s) began looking at it, when Ibn Abbas (Allah may be pleased with both of them) said, "O Amir Al-Mo mineen, I wish you resumed your Sermon from where you broke it.

Thereupon he replied, "O Ibn Abbas, it was like the foam of a camel which gushed out butsubsided. Ibn Abbas says that he never grieved over any utterance as he did over this one; because Amir Al-Momineen (a.s) could not finish it as he wished to. (Commenting on this sermon, Allama Razi says: "The words in this sermon Like the rider of a camel,' mean to convey that when a camel rider is stiff in drawing up the rein, then in this scuffle the nostril gets bruised; but if he lets it loose in spite of the camel's unruliness, it would throw him somewhere and would get out of control. Ashnaq-an-Naqah' is used when the rider holds up the rein and raises the camel's head upwards. In the same sense the word Shannaq-an-Naqah' is used. Ibn Sekkit has mentioned this in Islah-Al-Mantiq, this is because he has used this word in harmony with Aslasa-laha' and harmony could be retained only by using both in the same form. Thus, AmirAl-Mo'mineen (a.s) has used Ashnaqa laha as though in place of In Rafaa laha Raasaha,' (i.e., if he stops it by holding up the reins. ")

After Fatima's visit with women and then the men, which resulted in an emotional revolution in the hearts of the Muslims, Abu Bakr and Umar decided to visit the Mistress of women and try to achieve her contentment with them. The story was reported in Eta! Al-Sharaye' as follows: "When Fatima (a.s) was suffering from her fatal illness, Abu Bakr and Umar came to visit her. They asked for permission to enter, but she refused to see them. Upon this, Abu Bakr vowed not to enter any house until he saw Fatima and asked her to forgive him. Abu Bakr, because of his oath, was forced to spend that night in the cold with no cover. Umar then went to Ali (a.s) and addressed him by saying:

"More than once we have come to see Fatima so as to ask for requital, but she refuses to grant us permission to enter. If you see to it, you can get us permission from her to talk to her.

He (Imam Ali A.S.) said: "I surely will." Imam Ali then entered the house and said to Fatima (a.s):

"Daughter of Allah's Messenger, you have seen what these two men have done. They have repeatedly come to see you, but you have not given them permission to enter,~ now they have asked me to ask you to give them that permission.

She said: "By Allah, I shall not give them permission, nor will I speak a word to them until I meet my father and complain to him about that which they have done and committed against me.

"Now that you have assured them of something, the house is yours, and women follow men (in their commands); I shall not disagree with you in anything so allow whoever you wish (to enter the house).

When Ali heard Fatima's reply, he (a.s) left the house and gave permission to enter. The two men entered the house; when they saw Fatima (a.s) they submitted their greetings to her, but she did not reply, only turned her face away form them; in turn, they followed her face and she constantly turned away from them. The two parties repeated this action several times until Fatima (a.s) said:

"Ali cover me with your garment; she then said to some women who were present: "Turn me towards them!!'

"Daughter of Allah (s) Messenger, we have only come to you in an attempt to achieve your satisfaction and avoid your wrath; we ask you to requite and forgive us for the misdeed which we have committed against you.

Fatima said: "I shall not speak a word to either of you until I meet my Lord and complain to Him about you. I shall then complain about your actions and everything which you have committed against me. Fatima then turned towards Ali and said:

"I shall not speak to them until I ask them about something which they heard from Allah s Messenger. If they tell the truth regarding then I will decide to speak to them or not.

They said: "By Allah, she has the right to do so. Besides, we only speak that which is right and testify to that which is true. She said:

"I ask you by Allah, do you remember when the Messenger of Allah called you out in the middle of the night regarding a matter which came up with Ali?

Fatima then said: "I ask you by Allah, did you hear him say: Fatima is part of me and I am from her; he who offends me offends Allah. He who offends her after my death is the same as he who offends her during my life; and he who offends her during my life is the same as he who offends her after my death'?

She (a.s) said: "Praise be to Allah. O Allah, I hold you witness, so you who are present testify to this; surely they have offended me when I am living and after my death. By Allah, I shall not speak a word to you until I meet my Lord and complain to Him about you and that which you have inflicted me with."

When Abu Bakr heard this, he wailed and burst in loud laments and said: "I wish that my mother had not bore me!!'

Umar said: "It is strange how people appointed you as guardian of their affairs while you are not but a foolish old man!! You become anxious at a woman's anger and you rejoice at her satisfaction. What is wrong with he who angers a woman?

Commenting on this story Sayid Qazwini writes: "There was no need for Abu Bakr to wail and apologize when he had the opportunity to amend his mistakes, nor was there a reason for him to burst into loud laments when he had the chance to return her estate to her. But surely the Caliph wished to achieve Lady Fatima s satisfaction at the same time he was keeping her property and rights usurped."

After the prophet's death