Imam Ali

How old was Ali ibn Abu Talib when he embraced Islam?

Question:

How old was Ali ibn Abu Talib when he embraced Islam?

Answer:

Imam Ali (as) embraced Islam as soon as the Prophet received his first revelation. In fact, the Prophet met Ali (as) he was on his way back down from the Cave of Hera. He explained his message and experience with Gabriel to Ali (as), and Ali immediately submitted to Islam and became a Muslim in its formal sense, although he was always a beliver in the Unity of God and a ‘Muslim’ in the general meaning of the word.

The fact that we was still at the age of a child does not detract from his belief in Islam because for the chosen trustees of God age is not an issue, as proven by Prophet Isa declaring his prophecy while still a baby.

Answered by: Dr Ali Alsamail
Certified by: Sheikh Mansour Leghaei

Why do we say ‘alayhis salaam (peace be upon him) after the names of the Imams?

Question:

Why do we say “alayhis salaam” (peace be upon him) for Imam Ali (as) or the other Imams of the Ahlul Bayt (as)?

Answer:

We say ‘alayhi alsalam’ (peace be upon him) after mentioning the names of any members of the Ahlul Bayt. This is firstly a prayer for them, as we are asking for God to bestow His Peace and Blessings upon them. Secondly, it is a way of showing respect to them whenever their names are mentioned. Another way to look at it is if a person’s grandfather passed away, they would usually say “Rahmatullah alay” or “Allah yerhamo” – it is similar to this.

Answered by: Dr Ali Alsamail
Certified by: Sheikh Mansour Leghaei