21 Ramadan
Martyrdom of Imam Ali (as)
- 21 Ramadan 40 AH
The Strike in the Mihrab
On the 19th of Ramadan 40 AH, while leading the Fajr prayer in the Great Mosque of Kufa, Imam Ali (a.s.) was struck on the head with a poisoned sword by Ibn Muljam (may Allah curse him), a Kharijite. Upon being struck, the Imam cried out, 'Fuztu wa Rabbil Kaaba' (By the Lord of the Kaaba, I have succeeded!).
His Final Days and Martyrdom
The Imam suffered from the poison for two days. On his deathbed, he advised his sons, Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain (a.s.), to maintain piety, care for orphans, and stand against oppressors. He achieved martyrdom on the 21st of Ramadan and was secretly buried in Najaf to protect his grave from enemies. (Source: Nahj al-Balagha)
Aamal for 21st Ramadan
The 21st of Ramadan is a night of intense mourning and is also the second and most probable Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr). It is highly recommended to stay awake in worship, recite the Quran, perform the Aamal of Laylat al-Qadr, recite Ziyarat Ameenullah, and mourn the tragic loss of the Commander of the Faithful.