References to Imam Ali in Quran
Some verses of the Holy Quran have references to Imam Ali’s (AS) sacrifices and deeds.
Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS) was the Holy Prophet’s (PBUH) cousin and son-in-law. In the event of Ghadir of Khumm, he was appointed by the Prophet (PBUH) as the next Wali of Muslims.
He was raised by the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and became the first man to accept Islam. He was beside the Prophet (PBUH) to promote Islam and to fight in the battles against infidels and unbelievers.
Ali (AS) was among those trusted by the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and when the unbelievers in Mecca decided to kill the Prophet (PBUH) in his bed at night, Imam Ali (AS) slept in his bed, so the assassins would not notice his absence. This has been mentioned in a verse of the Holy Quran:
“But there are among people he who would give away his life desiring the Pleasure of Allah. Allah is Gentle to His worshipers.” (Verse 207 of Surah Al-Baqarah)
Imam Ali’s (AS) name is not mentioned in the Quran but Mufassirs (interpreters) believe that in some verses, there are references to events related to him. One example was just cited and another is about Imam Ali (AS) giving his ring to a needy person while saying prayers:
“Only God, His Messenger, and the true believers who are steadfast in prayer and pay alms, while they kneel during prayer, are your guardians.” (Verse 55 of Surah Al-Ma’idah)
In another verse, it is pointed out that Imam Ali (AS) and his family gave their food to needy persons while they were hungry themselves:
“They feed the destitute, orphans, and captives for the love of God, …” (Verse 8 of Surah Al-Insan)
Also, Verse 3 of Suran Al-Ma’idah, which is about God’s order to the Holy Prophet (PBUH) about completion of the religion, is said to refer to Imam Ali (AS), because after the revelation of this verse, the Prophet (PBUH) introduced Ali (AS) to Muslims as Wali. “On this day I have perfected your religion, completed My favors to you, and have chosen Islam as your religion.” (Verse 3 of Surah Al-Ma’idah)
According to Ibn Abbas, some 300 verses of the Quran refer to Imam Ali (AS) and his deeds. Although there are differences among Mufassirs about some verses, there is unanimous agreement among them about some others, including the verses mentioned above.
