"O Ali! Allah Almighty has commanded me to make Abu Bakr a father, Umar an advisor, Uthman a support, and you, O Ali, a helper."

"On the Day of Resurrection, a caller will announce under the Throne, 'Where are the companions of Muhammad?' Then Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali (may Allah be pleased with them) will be brought forth."

"Abu Bakr is my minister and, after me, the guardian of my Ummah; Umar is my beloved, the one who speaks on my behalf; Uthman is from me; and Ali is my brother and the bearer of my banner."