Ali, the fourth Caliph and a central figure in Islam, was assassinated by Ibn Muljim, a Kharijite.
Ibn Muljim, whose full name was Abd-al-Rahman ibn Muljam al-Muradi, was a member of the Kharijites, a group that opposed Ali's leadership. His motive stemmed from their belief that Ali had deviated from true Islamic principles during the First Fitna (Islamic civil war). Ibn Muljim harbored personal grievances and was driven by a desire to avenge the deaths of his fellow Kharijites.
Details of the Assassination
The assassination occurred on the 19th of Ramadan, 40 AH (661 CE) in the Great Mosque of Kufa, during the Fajr (dawn) prayer. While Ali was leading the prayer, Ibn Muljim struck him with a poisoned sword. Ali succumbed to his injuries two days later, on the 21st of Ramadan.
Ibn Muljim's Background
As the reference information mentions, Ibn Muljim was paternally of the Himyar tribe and maternally of the Murad tribe. He also had ties to the Kinda tribe. The Kharijite sect he belonged to were known for their extreme views and were responsible for several acts of violence.
Allegations of Conspiracy
Some historical accounts, notably by al-Tabari, suggest a possible connection between Ibn Muljim's act and Mu'awiya, Ali's political rival, and Amr ibn al-As, Mu'awiya's governor of Egypt. These accounts allege that they might have been involved in instigating or supporting the assassination plot. However, these claims remain a subject of debate among historians.
