Clarification of Imam Ali’s Role in the Story of Uthman’s Murder Using a Comparative Approach Based on the Primary Sources

One of the events that led to the creation of Ottoman sect was the murder of the third Khalif. Considering the different accounts of the Uthman’s murder and the role of Imam Ali, the present study attempts to find out the root of these discrepancies. The significance of this is that analyzing the context, origin, and consequences of an event determines the background of every historian’s account of the event. The findings of this study revealed that Ibn Sa’d in his account has depicted an innocent, saint-like image of the Khalif due to his zealotry. Al-Baladhuri expresses his sympathy for the Shia while legitimizing the rebellion. Considering the descriptions of the Khalif’s incompetence and Imam’s neutrality, one can draw onto Ya’qubi’s moderate Shi’ism tendency. Although he is not a Shia, Al-Tabari considers Imam as a sincere protector of the Khalif’s life. Finally, Al-Masudi’s account indicates his Shia tendencies that are displayed through an emphasis on the democratic nature of the rebellion and Imam’s efforts to save the Khalif’s life.