Ibn Muljam (ابن ملجم)
Ibn Muljam (ابن ملجم) is a pivotal historical figure within Islamic history, known primarily for assassinating the fourth Caliph, ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib. This act has reverberated through Islamic theology and cultural memory, with lasting implications on both Sunni and Shia thought.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: ابن ملجم
- Turkish: İbn Mülcem
Historical Context
Ibn Muljam’s full name was ʿAbd al-Raḥmān ibn Muljam al-Murādī. He was a Kharijite, a member of a radical Islamic sect that broke away from the followers of ʿAlī after the Battle of Ṣiffīn. On 19th of Ramadan, AH 40 (January 26, 661 CE), Ibn Muljam assassinated ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib, striking him with a poisoned sword while he was praying in the Great Mosque of Kūfah, modern-day Iraq. The assassin was executed for his crime, but the ramifications of his actions have transcended generations.
Theological and Cultural Impact
The event of ʿAlī’s assassination has held significant theological, cultural, and mystical implications.
Clerical Narratives
Sources such as the Ḥayātu ʾl-Qulūb provide vivid depictions of the incident and its aftermath. According to this text, when ʿAlī was martyred by Ibn Muljam, his celestial likeness (in the ʿĀlamu ʾl-Mis̤āl, or the world of ideal forms) appeared wounded as well. This narrative suggests that angels visit this wounded celestial likeness morning and evening, cursing Ibn Muljam’s name, indicative of the deep-seated grief and eternal condemnation surrounding his actions.
Sunni and Shia Perspectives
While Sunni and Shia Muslims share reverence for ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib, their interpretations of the event and its significance may differ greatly. For Shia Muslims, ʿAlī’s martyrdom is a profound injustice and a moment of great sorrow, marking the beginning of a long series of tribulations for ʿAlī’s descendants (the Ahl al-Bayt). For many Sunni Muslims, while the assassination is condemned, it is also seen within a broader historical context that includes a range of political and theological conflicts.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Nahjul Balagha” - A collection of sermons, letters, and sayings attributed to ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib, offering insights into his life and thought.
- “The Succession to Muhammad” by Wilferd Madelung - This book provides a detailed analysis of early Islamic history, focusing on the succession and the figure of ʿAlī.
- “Shia Islam” by Heinz Halm - A comprehensive overview of Shia history, theology, and cultural practices.
Takeaways
- Complex Historical Figures: Ibn Muljam is a controversial but crucial figure in Islamic history, symbolizing factional divisions and theological disputes.
- Mystical Beliefs: The story of ʿAlī’s wounded celestial likeness highlights the strong mystical beliefs associated with his martyrdom.
- Sectarian Impact: The assassination carries profound significance for both Sunni and Shia Muslims, contributing to ongoing interpretations and theological discourse.
Conclusion
Ibn Muljam’s assassination of ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib remains one of the most traumatic episodes in early Islamic history. This act’s theological and cultural repercussions continue to influence Islamic thought and sectarian relations to this day. Understanding Ibn Muljam’s legacy offers insights into the complexities and historical dynamics of early Islam.
