Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib

Born inside the Kaaba in Makkah—a unique honor—Ali was raised in the household of the Prophet Muhammad. He was the first male to accept Islam at the age of ten. He stood as a shield for the Prophet, notably sleeping in his bed during the Hijrah to fool the Makkan assassins.

Ali married Fatimah al-Zahra, the Prophet's beloved daughter, and was the father of Hasan and Husayn. He was the champion of almost all early Islamic battles, renowned for his unmatched swordsmanship and chivalry in battles like Badr and the Trench.

Following the Prophet's passing, Shia Muslims believe he was designated as the successor at Ghadir Khumm. He eventually became the fourth Caliph of Islam in 656 CE. His reign was marked by strict adherence to justice, administrative reforms, and major civil wars. He was assassinated while praying in the Mosque of Kufa in 661 CE by an extremist Kharijite.