Part 1 · Page 245
‘Ali Grows Up in the Messenger’s Household
English rendering of the source section
Local English translation from the Arabic text; reports and editorial assessments are distinguished.
This local English rendering may condense the Arabic narration and editorial notes. It is not a complete published English edition. Consult the Arabic source for exact wording and context.
Read the corresponding Arabic sectionOne of Allah’s favors to ‘Ali was that he grew up in the Messenger’s household before Islam. Ibn Ishaq related from Mujahid that Quraysh suffered a severe famine, while Abu Talib had many dependents. The Messenger proposed to his uncle al-‘Abbas, one of the wealthier Hashimites, that each take one of Abu Talib’s sons to ease his burden. Abu Talib agreed, asking only that they leave ‘Aqil with him. The Messenger took ‘Ali into his household, and al-‘Abbas took Ja‘far. ‘Ali remained with the Messenger until Allah sent him as a Prophet; ‘Ali believed and followed him. Ja‘far remained with al-‘Abbas until he accepted Islam and no longer needed his care.