Introduction:
The demise of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a significant event in the history of Islam. The event holds great importance for Muslims around the world.
It is believed that the Prophet, during his final days, appointed Imam Ali as his successor through various instances such as the event of Ghadir Khumm, where the Prophet publicly declared Ali as his designated heir. The Prophet Muhammad explicitly expressed his desire for the leadership of the Muslim ummah to pass on to Imam Ali after his demise.
The Event of 28 Safar:
This describe the events surrounding the demise of the Prophet Muhammad on the 28th of Safar. According to some narrations, the Prophet fell ill and suffered from a high fever during the final days of his life. Despite his illness, the Prophet continued to guide the Islamic community and expressed his wishes for the unity and preservation of the faith.
During this time, the Prophet Muhammad reportedly appointed a council of his closest companions, including Imam Ali, to ensure the continued guidance and leadership of the Muslim community after his passing. This council, according to the Shia tradition, is known as the "Event of Thaqalayn," where the Prophet declared that the Quran and his progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, would serve as the ultimate sources of guidance for the Muslim community.
The Legacy of Imam Ali and the Shia Imams:
After the demise of the Prophet Muhammad, Imam Ali became the caliph according to the Shia tradition. Shia Muslims consider the lineage of the Prophet Muhammad through Imam Ali and his descendants as the legitimate successors and Imams who possessed divine knowledge and authority. They played a crucial role in preserving and interpreting the teachings of Islam.
For Shia Muslims, the Imams are seen as spiritual leaders and guides, serving as a link between humanity and divine guidance. They are revered for their knowledge, piety, and adherence to the principles of justice and compassion, as exemplified by Imam Ali and the succeeding eleven Imams.
Conclusion:
The demise of Prophet Muhammad on the 28th of Safar holds deep significance for Shia Muslims. Through their narrations, they emphasize the appointment of Imam Ali as the successor and the continuation of spiritual guidance through the Shia Imams. The Shia perspective sheds light on the succession of leadership and the continuation of divine guidance after the Prophet's death, playing a vital role in the spiritual beliefs and practices of Muslims today.
We therefore extend our condolences to all Muslim Ummah on this day.