[Footnote *: Gibbon wrote chiefly from the Arabic or Sunnite
account of these transactions, the only sources accessible
at the time when he composed his History. Major Price,
writing from Persian authorities, affords us the advantage
of comparing throughout what may be fairly considered the
Shiite Version. The glory of Ali is the constant burden of
their strain. He was destined, and, according to some
accounts, designated, for the caliphate by the prophet; but
while the others were fiercely pushing their own interests,
Ali was watching the remains of Mahomet with pious fidelity.
His disinterested magnanimity, on each separate occasion,
declined the sceptre, and gave the noble example of
obedience to the appointed caliph. He is described, in
retirement, on the throne, and in the field of battle, as
transcendently pious, magnanimous, valiant, and humane. He
lost his empire through his excess of virtue and love for
the faithful his life through his confidence in God, and
submission to the decrees of fate..]
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