Imam Ali (a.s.) and the Patience before of the Prophet's death

First of all, do be aware that I was not accustomed to be so close to anyone but to the Messenger of Allah... He was the source of trust and tranquility for me, and he was the only one that I could feel myself close to him, for he had always been my guardian and tutor in my childhood. He always had me with him in those days. He always helped my family. He always relieved my sadness and loneliness. He used to provide my daily sustenance! When poverty attacked me, it was he who provided for my wife and children. However, these instances are nothing when compared to his assistance to me! These were my earthly needs. The Messenger of Allah (a.s.) helped me a lot so that, step by step, I could finally achieve my knowledge of God.

It is obvious that the death of the Messenger of Allah (a.s.) was a great calamity to me. A great calamity that was unbearable even for mountains! In that time, I saw that some members of my household were very restless, because that disaster was out of their capacity to bear.

They were desperate and impatient. They were not ready to hear or talk about anything else... But some of the family members of Abdul Muttalib asked them to be patient, and sympathized with my household in their weeping and mourning. At that time, I was very lonely and sad, but I had to persevere and be patient. I used to be silent and I obeyed the directions of the Prophet (a.s.) left for me to execute them properly. In fact. it was I, who washed his holy body, enshrouded him, offered the prayer of death on him, and buried him at last ...

From then on, I had to perform my daily prayers, never wore my aba anymore. I did that just when, until I completed the Book of Allah, and accomplished my pledges for that holy existence.

Be aware that none of these works did impede me from performing my obligations. I did not weep, nor did I moan, until I carried out the rights of Allah and his Prophet, and completed my sad mission. Know that for passing these stages in my life, I always remained patient. Is it not true?"

Everyone said, "Yes it is true, and you are truly the Commander of the Believers!"

The Jewish man cried a lot, and was sorry that he had not had the privilege to see the Prophet of Islam in person.

Adapted from: "The Sufferings of Amirol Mo'minin Ali ibn Abi Talib (A.S.); Life and Martyrdom" by: "Majid Massoudi"