Death of Uthman b. Affan

3. The Assassination: Causes and Consequences

The culminating event—the assassination of Uthman in 656 CE—was precipitated by increasing unrest. A coalition of insurgents approached Uthman’s residence in Medina, demanding reforms and accountability. When Uthman refused to comply, he was besieged and ultimately killed. This dramatic turn of events precipitated a profound schism within the Muslim community.

From the Shia viewpoint, the assassination underscores a transgression against the sanctity of leadership. It prompts a profound discussion on the ethics of rebellion against a caliph: while the insurgents asserted their grievances, was their violent uprising justified? The Shia narrative often positions this event as indicative of a failure to honor the rightful succession of leadership embodied in the family of the Prophet Muhammad, particularly through Ali ibn Abi Talib, the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law.