Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib: His Life and Times

Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib: His Life and Times

Imam Ḥasan Ibn ʿAlī (ʿa, an honorific meaning ʿalayhi al-salām — “peace be upon him”) stands in history as the embodiment of prophetic ethics, generosity (karam), and wisdom (ḥikmah). As the eldest grandson of the Prophet Muḥammad (peace be upon him and his Family) and the first-born of Imam ʿAlī (ʿa) and Lady Fāṭimah al-Zahrāʾ (ʿa), his life reflects both the tenderness of the Prophet’s household and the steadfastness of divine leadership. From the serenity of Medina to the turbulence of Kufa, Imam Ḥasan (ʿa) became the voice of justice through patience, forgiveness, and moral insight.

About the Book

Al-Hasan ibn ʿAli ibn Abi Talib: His Life and Times, published by the Ahl al-Bayt (ʿa) Organization, presents a comprehensive overview of Imam Ḥasan’s (ʿa) life within its historical and theological framework. The author traces the Imam’s journey from his early years under the Prophet’s guidance to his leadership after Imam ʿAlī’s (ʿa) martyrdom, emphasizing his unique balance of gentleness and firmness in confronting political corruption.

Drawing upon classical Shīʿī and Sunnī sources, the book highlights the Imam’s role as both a guardian of the Prophet’s teachings (sunnah) and a reformer (muṣliḥ) who sought peace to preserve faith. It also explores the intellectual and moral legacy of his sermons, letters, and public counsel — lessons that remain deeply relevant for ethical leadership today.

What You Will Discover

• A detailed biographical study of Imam Ḥasan (ʿa) from birth to martyrdom.
• His family life within the Prophet’s household (Ahl al-Bayt, the Prophet’s Family).
• His political challenges and treaty with Muʿāwiyah in historical context.
• His virtues of generosity (karam), patience (ṣabr), and humility (tawāḍuʿ).
• Insights from his sayings and letters on moral and communal reform (iṣlāḥ).

About the Author

This book, compiled by scholars of the Ahl al-Bayt Organization, integrates historical narrative with theological reflection. Relying on foundational works such as al-Irshād by Shaykh al-Mufīd and Biḥār al-Anwār by ʿAllāmah al-Majlisī, the editors provide a well-documented and balanced account of the Imam’s life, showing how his actions shaped the continuity of divine guidance after the Prophet.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is for readers seeking a full and reliable portrait of Imam Ḥasan Ibn ʿAlī (ʿa) — ideal for students, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the intersection of history, faith, and ethics in the life of the Prophet’s grandson.