Analysis of the Incidents in the Early Period of Islam by Studying Demographic Structure of the Companions of the Holy Prophet of Islam based on the Quran and Commentaries of the Two Sects

Abstract
Certain incidents took place during the lifetime of the Holy Prophet of Islam (S) like the defeat of Muslim army in the Battle of Uhud due to disobedience of some companions, the event of Efk and some of the companions' refusal to accompany the Prophet (S) in the Battle of Tabuk. Following the demise of the Holy Prophet (S), contrary to the Prophet's advice, the Commander of the Faithful (A.S) was denied successorship of the Prophet (S) and a big dispute arose among Muslims, one which has continued to influence the ensuing events of the Islamic world as of today. Extensive research has been conducted to determine the causes and roots of this problem. This article investigates the origins of these events by studying Muslim demographics in terms of commitment and loyalty to Islam and its leadership. This research conducted on the basis of Quranic verses and commentaries authored by Shiite and Sunni exegetes shows that the companions of the Holy Prophet (S) were divided into many groups in terms of belief in God and His Messenger and adherence to divine injunctions; they included pious theists, individuals with weak faith, hypocrites or Muslims who had accepted Islam for their own worldly interests.
In the era of the Messenger of God (S), the hypocrites made every effort to act against Islam and the Holy Prophet (S) in all cultural, political and social arenas. There were some other people who, in that sensitive time, did not fulfill their duties due to a lack of insight or weak belief. They were somehow instrumental in forwarding and implementing the goals and objectives of the hypocrites and pagans. That was why it was very much likely that an incident would take place against the consent of the Prophet (S). Moreover, it will be made clear that the Quran does not have an extremist sanctifying view towards the companions nor does it believe in them as being heretics; in fact, it has a moderate view towards them.