(Died in 966 AH / 1559 AD) Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib in the book "Tarikh al-Khamis" regarding the conditions of precious souls for the lands of Bakri

Abstract

This research aims to study the image of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib in the book "Tarikh al-Khamis fi Ahwal Anfas Nafis" by al-Diyar Bakri (d. 966 AH), through an analysis of the texts contained in the book and an examination of the author's methodology in constructing this image. The research adopted a descriptive analytical approach, extracting a set of texts related to Imam Ali and analyzing them to reveal the general characteristics of the author's style. The research concluded that al-Diyar Bakri presented an idealized image of Imam Ali, focusing on highlighting his virtues and status, while relying on a reportorial style based on generalization and brevity, in contrast to a clear absence of political analysis and historical detail. The research also showed that the author avoided delving into controversial issues, especially those related to the Great Fitna, contenting himself with general references to them.

While the book "Tarikh al-Khamis" is considered a valuable heritage source due to its inclusion of narratives and quotations; The researcher believes that this historical material – despite its importance – does not present a complete picture of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib, due to the author's adherence to the method of reporting and brevity. Accordingly, the research concludes that the book represents a basic building block in the historical narrative, but it requires supplementation with other sources to enable the researcher to uncover deeper and more balanced dimensions of the Imam's personality.