Ali Ali Siffin BattleSiffin Battle

A.S. Hashim, MDA.S. Hashim, MDFrom: www.wikipedia.com

And: http://archive.mumineen.org/deen/Ramadhan_dates.html

Sources of ReferenceSources of Referenceibn Jarir al-Tabari, ibn Jarir al-Tabari, Ibn Qutaybah, Ibn Qutaybah, Nasr, Seyyed Hossein. "Ali". Madelung, Encyclopaedia of the Holy Prophet and Companions Tabatabaei, Lapidus, The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward GibbonAl-Shaykh Al-MufidDakakeNahj Al-Balagha, Sermon 3Holt, P.M.; Lambton, Ann K.S.; Lewis, Bernard. Cambridge History of Islam. Watt, William Montgomery. Muhammad at Mecca. Oxford University Press.

In this Slide ShowIn this Slide ShowFollowing Uthman’s DeathFollowing Uthman’s DeathWho was Mu’awiya?Who was Mu’awiya?Ali’s CampAli’s CampMu’awiya’s CampMu’awiya’s CampAli Heading to face Mu’awiyaAli Heading to face Mu’awiyaAli’s forces Reach al-Raqqa Ali’s forces Reach al-Raqqa الرقهالرقهAccess to the WaterAccess to the WaterThe BattleThe BattleWilliam Muir WritesWilliam Muir WritesEdward Gibbon WritesEdward Gibbon WritesArbitration at Daumat al-Jandal Arbitration at Daumat al-Jandal الجندل الجندل دومة دومةDeliberations of the ArbitrationDeliberations of the ArbitrationThe Deceit of Ibn AasThe Deceit of Ibn Aas

PreludePrelude

The Battle of Siffin, Time period: The Battle of Siffin, Time period: (May-July 657AD)(May-July 657AD) occurred during the First Fitna (Sedition), or First occurred during the First Fitna (Sedition), or First Muslim civil war, Muslim civil war,

with the main engagement taking place from July 26 to with the main engagement taking place from July 26 to July 28. July 28.

It was fought between Ali ibn Abi Talib and Mu'awiya, It was fought between Ali ibn Abi Talib and Mu'awiya,

on the banks of the Euphrates river, on the banks of the Euphrates river,

in what is now Al-Raqqa in what is now Al-Raqqa الرقةالرقة , Syria. , Syria.

Following Uthman’s DeathFollowing Uthman’s Death

Ali becomes Khalifa in an anxiety ridden atmosphereAli becomes Khalifa in an anxiety ridden atmosphereAli removes all Benu Umayya governors from officeAli removes all Benu Umayya governors from officeMu’awiya refuses to acknowledge Ali’s ordersMu’awiya refuses to acknowledge Ali’s ordersA’isha (Umm al-Mu’mineen) along with Talha and Zubair A’isha (Umm al-Mu’mineen) along with Talha and Zubair lead a rebellion against Alilead a rebellion against AliDuring the few months of the Jamal affairs Mu’awiya During the few months of the Jamal affairs Mu’awiya consolidates his base of powerconsolidates his base of powerBenu Umayya in Jamal affair (being forgiven and freed by Benu Umayya in Jamal affair (being forgiven and freed by Ali), join Mu’awiya to fight against AliAli), join Mu’awiya to fight against AliMu’awiya takes advantage of the circumstances and uses Mu’awiya takes advantage of the circumstances and uses the bloodied shirt of Uthman to raise emotionsthe bloodied shirt of Uthman to raise emotionsSyria in a frenzy against Ali, to avenge the blood of Uthman.Syria in a frenzy against Ali, to avenge the blood of Uthman.

The EnvoyThe Envoy

Having defeated A’isha at the Jamal Battle, Ali returned from Having defeated A’isha at the Jamal Battle, Ali returned from Basra to Kufa in Rajab of 36H (January 657AD). Basra to Kufa in Rajab of 36H (January 657AD). Ali transferred the capital of his government to Kufa from Ali transferred the capital of his government to Kufa from Medina Medina

because Kufa was more centrally placed, because Kufa was more centrally placed, and he could halt Mu'awiya's progress into Iraq. and he could halt Mu'awiya's progress into Iraq. However, Ali tried to settle matters peacefully. However, Ali tried to settle matters peacefully. He chose Jarir as his envoy, He chose Jarir as his envoy, Jarir was the chief of Benu Bajila and governor of Hamdan. Jarir was the chief of Benu Bajila and governor of Hamdan. The negotiations between Mu’awiya and Jarir proved The negotiations between Mu’awiya and Jarir proved fruitless, fruitless, and Mu'awiya's army pledged an oath that they would not and Mu'awiya's army pledged an oath that they would not wash or sleep a night at home, until the murderers of wash or sleep a night at home, until the murderers of Uthman were brought to justice. Uthman were brought to justice.

Asking for Union and AccordAsking for Union and Accord

In Syria, disorder and incitement to commotion continued In Syria, disorder and incitement to commotion continued unabated. unabated. Uthman's shirt, (besmeared with his blood) and the chopped-Uthman's shirt, (besmeared with his blood) and the chopped-off fingers of his wife, Naila, were exhibited from the pulpit.off fingers of his wife, Naila, were exhibited from the pulpit.

In this manner, Mu'awiya raised the entire country of Syria In this manner, Mu'awiya raised the entire country of Syria against Ali. against Ali. Ultimately, both parties, opposed to each other, converged Ultimately, both parties, opposed to each other, converged on Siffin where their armies pitched their camps in on Siffin where their armies pitched their camps in 37H/657AD. 37H/657AD. Even at this stage, Ali sent three men, viz. Bashir Ansaari, Even at this stage, Ali sent three men, viz. Bashir Ansaari, Sa'eed Hamdani, and Shith Tamimi to Mu'awiya to induce Sa'eed Hamdani, and Shith Tamimi to Mu'awiya to induce him to settle for union, and coming together. him to settle for union, and coming together. According to Tabari (5h vol., p. 243), Mu'awiya’s reply was: According to Tabari (5h vol., p. 243), Mu'awiya’s reply was:

"Go away from here, only the sword will decide between us.""Go away from here, only the sword will decide between us."

Who was Mu’awiya?Who was Mu’awiya?

Mu'awiya was appointed by Omar as governor over Jordan when his Mu'awiya was appointed by Omar as governor over Jordan when his brother Yazid (governor of Jordan) had diedbrother Yazid (governor of Jordan) had diedThen in addition, Mu’awiya became governor of Sham in Syria, Then in addition, Mu’awiya became governor of Sham in Syria, Mu’awiya was a cousin of Uthman.Mu’awiya was a cousin of Uthman.Uthman, added Palestine, and North Syria to Mu’awiya’s governorship Uthman, added Palestine, and North Syria to Mu’awiya’s governorship after their governors had died.after their governors had died.

Mu’awiya is now the governor of Syria (Sham plus Northern Mu’awiya is now the governor of Syria (Sham plus Northern Territory) and Jordan plus Palestine.Territory) and Jordan plus Palestine.Thus increasing Mu’awiya’s power to a very high levelThus increasing Mu’awiya’s power to a very high level

By Ali’s time, Mu’awiya has been governor for 17 years.By Ali’s time, Mu’awiya has been governor for 17 years.He was well entrenched.He was well entrenched.Was generous to his loyalist at the expense of public treasuryWas generous to his loyalist at the expense of public treasuryWas therefore well liked in SyriaWas therefore well liked in Syria

Who was Mu’awiya?Who was Mu’awiya?

Mu'awiya worked in a clever, subtle, and hardly noticeable Mu'awiya worked in a clever, subtle, and hardly noticeable manner.  manner.  He began to use the rich public treasury of Syria for his own, He began to use the rich public treasury of Syria for his own, often buying favors or influencing friends. often buying favors or influencing friends. Mu'awiya's influence became much firmer with the passage of Mu'awiya's influence became much firmer with the passage of years, people got used to his name and position.  years, people got used to his name and position.  When Khalifa Uthman started to reign Mu'awiya was When Khalifa Uthman started to reign Mu'awiya was emboldened.  emboldened.  Once this happened, not only did the rest of the Umayya family Once this happened, not only did the rest of the Umayya family spread its tentaclesspread its tentacles

but Mu'awiya was much bolder in working with the public but Mu'awiya was much bolder in working with the public treasury treasury and helping himself to buy friends and influence people.  and helping himself to buy friends and influence people.  He knew well the weakness of man for money. He knew well the weakness of man for money.

The Side of Mu’awiyaThe Side of Mu’awiya

Ali fired Mu'awiya as well as other governors of Benu Umayya lineAli fired Mu'awiya as well as other governors of Benu Umayya lineMu'awiya defied, and declined to give his allegiance to Ali.Mu'awiya defied, and declined to give his allegiance to Ali.Mu'awiya started a campaign for the revenge of the blood of Uthman.  Mu'awiya started a campaign for the revenge of the blood of Uthman.  Mu’awiya exploited Uthman in a clever way:Mu’awiya exploited Uthman in a clever way:

Often, in the center of the main mosque in Damascus, they would Often, in the center of the main mosque in Damascus, they would show the bloody shirt in which Uthman had died, raising people's show the bloody shirt in which Uthman had died, raising people's emotions.  emotions.  Every Friday, highly emotional speeches were given to arouse the Every Friday, highly emotional speeches were given to arouse the emotions, and let everyone cry.  emotions, and let everyone cry. 

Mu’awiya was aided by the hordes of Benu Umayya, all in a challenge Mu’awiya was aided by the hordes of Benu Umayya, all in a challenge to grab power of Khilaafah. to grab power of Khilaafah.

The simple man in Damascus and Syria believed them and gave The simple man in Damascus and Syria believed them and gave them full support.them full support.

Ali’s CampAli’s Camp

Ali's camp was trying very hard:Ali's camp was trying very hard:to bring the Islamic nation together, and to unify it to bring the Islamic nation together, and to unify it and to put energy once more in the sagging Islamic spirit.and to put energy once more in the sagging Islamic spirit.

Ali's side was a camp of virtue and righteousness, with volunteers who Ali's side was a camp of virtue and righteousness, with volunteers who would give their blood and life for Islam.  would give their blood and life for Islam.  Imam Ali's camp had many of the Prophet's Companions, Imam Ali's camp had many of the Prophet's Companions,

people coming from Medina to help, people coming from Medina to help, and among them were highly respected personalities such as and among them were highly respected personalities such as Ammar.  Ammar.  Ali's camp was for the ideals of Islam, and the welfare of Muslims Ali's camp was for the ideals of Islam, and the welfare of Muslims and their lives, not only then but even now.  and their lives, not only then but even now.  Ali's camp was of the righteous, upright, and virtuous.Ali's camp was of the righteous, upright, and virtuous.

Mu’awiya’s CampMu’awiya’s Camp

Mu'awiya was painstakingly building his campaign and forces.  Mu'awiya was painstakingly building his campaign and forces.  Mu'awiya’s ambition was to become the Khalifa, the ruler. Mu'awiya’s ambition was to become the Khalifa, the ruler.

People of Mu’awiya were not versed in Islamic ideals or knowing People of Mu’awiya were not versed in Islamic ideals or knowing much of Ali's contribution to Islam.  much of Ali's contribution to Islam.  Mu'awiya paid them enticing salaries from the State Treasury (like Mu'awiya paid them enticing salaries from the State Treasury (like tax money in our days), tax money in our days), Mu'awiya promised them a high, prestigious, or influential Mu'awiya promised them a high, prestigious, or influential position.  position.  Mu'awiya bargained with Amr Ibn Aas about the governorship of Mu'awiya bargained with Amr Ibn Aas about the governorship of EgyptEgypt

Mu’awiya’s secret agents even infiltrated Ali's side:Mu’awiya’s secret agents even infiltrated Ali's side:to successively entice a number of Ali's adherents by attractive to successively entice a number of Ali's adherents by attractive promises of the worldly nature! promises of the worldly nature! Thus, Mu'awiya used the carrot and stick strategy effectively.Thus, Mu'awiya used the carrot and stick strategy effectively.

Ali on the Way, to face Mu’awiyaAli on the Way, to face Mu’awiya

Ali headed northwest with a large force, the course was Ali headed northwest with a large force, the course was along the Euphrates River.along the Euphrates River.While on the way Ali passed an eerie and gloomy place.  While on the way Ali passed an eerie and gloomy place.  Ali asked anxiously, "What do you call this place?"Ali asked anxiously, "What do you call this place?""It is called Karbala," someone answered.  "It is called Karbala," someone answered.  On hearing that Ali looked grim.  He then said with pain:On hearing that Ali looked grim.  He then said with pain:

      دمائهم ومهراق ِر�حالهم محُّط�    هنا دمائهم ومهراق ِر�حالهم محُّط� هنا

It is here where they will be stoppedIt is here where they will be stoppedand it is here where the blood-shed will be. and it is here where the blood-shed will be. 

This became indelible in the mind of Al-Husain.  It later This became indelible in the mind of Al-Husain.  It later proved to be the biggest tragedy in history, but through proved to be the biggest tragedy in history, but through which Islam was preservedwhich Islam was preserved..

Siffin

From Kufa to SiffinFrom Kufa to Siffin

Distance about 700 milesDistance about 700 miles

Many overnight stopsMany overnight stops

Distance between Distance between overnight stops variableovernight stops variable

The route is by the The route is by the Euphrates RiverEuphrates River

Trip is arduous personally Trip is arduous personally let alone for the whole let alone for the whole armyarmy

Kufa

Siffin

Siffin

With Ali:With Ali:

Historian Yaqubi (2nd vol., p. 188) writes that:Historian Yaqubi (2nd vol., p. 188) writes that:Ali had 80,000 men, Ali had 80,000 men, including 70 Companions who participated in Badr, including 70 Companions who participated in Badr, 70 Companions who took oath at Hudaibiya, 70 Companions who took oath at Hudaibiya, and 400 prominent Ansaars and Muhaajirs; and 400 prominent Ansaars and Muhaajirs; while Mu'awiya had 120,000 Syrians.while Mu'awiya had 120,000 Syrians.

Of his family Ali was accompanied by: Of his family Ali was accompanied by: Al-Hasan and Al-Husain of Fatima, and Al-Hasan and Al-Husain of Fatima, and his teenage Al-Abbas of Umm Al-Baneenhis teenage Al-Abbas of Umm Al-BaneenMuhammad Ibn Al-HanafiyaMuhammad Ibn Al-HanafiyaIbn Abbas and others.Ibn Abbas and others.

Siffin in BriefSiffin in Brief

1.1. Ali leaves Kufa along the Euphrates River Ali leaves Kufa along the Euphrates River 2.2. Negotiations (for several weeks) fail to dissuade from Negotiations (for several weeks) fail to dissuade from

fighting  fighting  3.3. Fighting: Battle of Siffin takes place, fighting severeFighting: Battle of Siffin takes place, fighting severe4.4. Ammar the Companion killed by Mu'awiya side Ammar the Companion killed by Mu'awiya side 5.5. Mu'awiya uses deceit, Ash'ath to undermine Ali Mu'awiya uses deceit, Ash'ath to undermine Ali 6.6. Mu'awiya averts his defeat, lifts 500 Qurans on spearsMu'awiya averts his defeat, lifts 500 Qurans on spears7.7. Qurans on spears bring fighting to a halt, Qurans on spears bring fighting to a halt, 8.8. Ali's side in disorder and argumentsAli's side in disorder and arguments9.9. Ali recognizes the deceit, urges his men to fight: they refuseAli recognizes the deceit, urges his men to fight: they refuse10.10. Ali is forced to accept ArbitrationAli is forced to accept Arbitration11.11. A year later, deception at Arbitration by Mu'awiya's sideA year later, deception at Arbitration by Mu'awiya's side

Ali’s forces Reach al-Raqqa Ali’s forces Reach al-Raqqa الرقهالرقه

Seeing that war was inevitable, Ali gathered his forces,Seeing that war was inevitable, Ali gathered his forces,and, after at first planning to invade Syria from the North, and, after at first planning to invade Syria from the North, he attacked directly, marching through Mesopotamia. he attacked directly, marching through Mesopotamia. Arriving at al-Raqqa Arriving at al-Raqqa الرقهالرقه , on the banks of the Euphrates, , on the banks of the Euphrates, the Syrian vanguard was sighted, but it withdrew without the Syrian vanguard was sighted, but it withdrew without engagement. engagement. The people of al-Raqqa were hostile to Ali, The people of al-Raqqa were hostile to Ali, and without their cooperation his army would have difficulty and without their cooperation his army would have difficulty crossing the river. crossing the river. Eventually, Malik al-Ashtar threatened the townspeople, Eventually, Malik al-Ashtar threatened the townspeople, which forced their co-operation. which forced their co-operation.

al-Raqqa al-Raqqa الرقهالرقه

Al-Riqqa

Finally they Meet at SiffinFinally they Meet at Siffin

So, finally, the army managed to cross the river, So, finally, the army managed to cross the river, by means of a bridge of boats. by means of a bridge of boats.

Ali's army then marched along the right bank of the Ali's army then marched along the right bank of the Euphrates, Euphrates, until they came across the Syrian outpost of Sur al-until they came across the Syrian outpost of Sur al-Rum, Rum, where there was a brief skirmish, but Ali's advance was where there was a brief skirmish, but Ali's advance was not slowed. not slowed. So in Dhul Hijjah 36H (May 657AD), the army of Ali So in Dhul Hijjah 36H (May 657AD), the army of Ali came into sight of Mu'awiya's main forces,came into sight of Mu'awiya's main forces,which were encamped on the river which were encamped on the river plain at Siffinplain at Siffin..

Access to the WaterAccess to the Water

Mu'awiya had stationed:Mu'awiya had stationed:his general, Amr ibn al-Aas, with 10,000 men on the river to deny his general, Amr ibn al-Aas, with 10,000 men on the river to deny Ali's army any access to water. Appeals to allow the water fail. Ali's army any access to water. Appeals to allow the water fail. Ali’s general, Malik al-Ashtar, led the attack to gain access to the Ali’s general, Malik al-Ashtar, led the attack to gain access to the water; water;

After heavy fighting, Amr's forces were dislodged from the river After heavy fighting, Amr's forces were dislodged from the river bank. bank. But Ali insisted on free access to Mu’awiya’s forces to the water.But Ali insisted on free access to Mu’awiya’s forces to the water.

Even then, Ali did not immediately press forwards with his attack Even then, Ali did not immediately press forwards with his attack instead, the two sides remained encamped facing each other for instead, the two sides remained encamped facing each other for 110 days 110 days while attempts were made at a negotiated settlement. while attempts were made at a negotiated settlement. During this time, there were at least 90 skirmishes between tribal During this time, there were at least 90 skirmishes between tribal columns in the two armies, but no general battle.columns in the two armies, but no general battle.

Mu'awiya RefusesMu'awiya Refuses

Mu'awiya refused Ali as Khalifa until those complicit in Uthman's murder Mu'awiya refused Ali as Khalifa until those complicit in Uthman's murder be brought to justice. be brought to justice.

Ali saw Mu'awiya as motivated by ambition, the ambition for power. Ali saw Mu'awiya as motivated by ambition, the ambition for power. Moreover, Ali's position began to harden; regarding the murder of Moreover, Ali's position began to harden; regarding the murder of Uthman, Uthman,

he is said to have stated "I will not say that he was wrongly he is said to have stated "I will not say that he was wrongly attacked, nor will I say that the attack was justified." attacked, nor will I say that the attack was justified."

As compromise was impossible, the negotiations remained As compromise was impossible, the negotiations remained deadlocked, deadlocked, but both sides were reluctant to fight, because it would mean killing but both sides were reluctant to fight, because it would mean killing fellow Muslims. fellow Muslims. This situation lasted 110 days.This situation lasted 110 days.

Ali Sends Delegations Ali Sends Delegations

Ali's next step was, as usual, to try and come to a peaceful settlement. Ali's next step was, as usual, to try and come to a peaceful settlement. He deputed Bashir bin Amr, Sa'id bin Qais and Ibn Rabi, but Mu'awiya He deputed Bashir bin Amr, Sa'id bin Qais and Ibn Rabi, but Mu'awiya declined the offer to the delegates. declined the offer to the delegates. Ali still did not give up and he sent a second delegation, but it also failed.Ali still did not give up and he sent a second delegation, but it also failed.For the next three months, (May, June and July, 657AH), the armies For the next three months, (May, June and July, 657AH), the armies remained in camps at Siffinremained in camps at Siffin

facing each other neither at war nor at peace. facing each other neither at war nor at peace. This negotiations lasted 110 days, during which time, there were at This negotiations lasted 110 days, during which time, there were at least 90 skirmishes between tribal columns in the two armies, but no least 90 skirmishes between tribal columns in the two armies, but no general battle.general battle.There was much heat in the discussions with Mu'awiya, There was much heat in the discussions with Mu'awiya, and finally Ali was obliged once again to resort to arms on 8th Safar, and finally Ali was obliged once again to resort to arms on 8th Safar, 36H/July 26, 657AD. 36H/July 26, 657AD.

The BattleThe Battle

On 8th Safar 36H (26 July 657AD) Ali gave the On 8th Safar 36H (26 July 657AD) Ali gave the order for a full attack. order for a full attack. The battle lasted all day, and into the night. The battle lasted all day, and into the night. The fighting lulled a little in the darkness, but The fighting lulled a little in the darkness, but started again even more fiercely the following started again even more fiercely the following day. day. Despite his age (he was now 58) Ali attacked Despite his age (he was now 58) Ali attacked personallypersonally

With his Medina troops in the center, With his Medina troops in the center, And with his troops from Basra and Kufa on the flanks. And with his troops from Basra and Kufa on the flanks.

William Muir WritesWilliam Muir Writes

William Muir writes in "The Caliphate, its Rise and Fall“ (London, William Muir writes in "The Caliphate, its Rise and Fall“ (London, 1924, p. 261) 1924, p. 261)

"Both armies drawn out in entire array, fought till the shades of "Both armies drawn out in entire array, fought till the shades of evening fell, evening fell, neither having got the better. neither having got the better. The following morning, the combat was renewed with great vigor. The following morning, the combat was renewed with great vigor. Ali posed himself in the center with the flower of his troops from Ali posed himself in the center with the flower of his troops from Medina, Medina,

and the wings were formed, one of the warriors from Basra, and the wings were formed, one of the warriors from Basra, the other of those from Kufa.the other of those from Kufa.

Mu'awiya had a pavilion pitched on the field; Mu'awiya had a pavilion pitched on the field; and there, surrounded by five lines of his sworn body-guards, he and there, surrounded by five lines of his sworn body-guards, he watched the fight. watched the fight.

William Muir WritesWilliam Muir Writes

Amr with a great weight of horse, bore down upon the Kufa wing which Amr with a great weight of horse, bore down upon the Kufa wing which gave away; gave away; and Ali was exposed to imminent peril, both from thick showers of and Ali was exposed to imminent peril, both from thick showers of arrows and from close encounter. arrows and from close encounter.

Reproaching the men of Kufa for their cowardice, Reproaching the men of Kufa for their cowardice, the Khalifa fought bravely, his unwieldy figure notwithstanding, sword the Khalifa fought bravely, his unwieldy figure notwithstanding, sword in hand, and manfully withstood the charge. in hand, and manfully withstood the charge. Ali's general Ashtar, at the head of 300 readers of (the Quran) led Ali's general Ashtar, at the head of 300 readers of (the Quran) led forward the other wing, forward the other wing, which fell with fury on Mu'awiya's Turbaned body-guard. which fell with fury on Mu'awiya's Turbaned body-guard. Four of its five ranks were cut to pieces, Four of its five ranks were cut to pieces,

and Mu'awiya, bethinking himself of flight, had already called for his and Mu'awiya, bethinking himself of flight, had already called for his horse, when a martial couplet flashed in his mind, and he held his horse, when a martial couplet flashed in his mind, and he held his ground." ground."

Edward Gibbon WritesEdward Gibbon Writes

Edward Gibbon writes in "The Rise and Fall of the Roman Edward Gibbon writes in "The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire" (London, 1848, 3rd vol., p. 522) that:Empire" (London, 1848, 3rd vol., p. 522) that:

"The Khalifa Ali displayed a superior character of valor "The Khalifa Ali displayed a superior character of valor and humanity. and humanity. His troops were strictly enjoined to wait the first onset His troops were strictly enjoined to wait the first onset of the enemy, of the enemy, to spare their flying brethren, to spare their flying brethren, and to respect the bodies of the dead, and the chastity and to respect the bodies of the dead, and the chastity of the female captives. of the female captives. The ranks of the Syrians were broken by the charge of The ranks of the Syrians were broken by the charge of the hero,the hero,who was mounted on a piebald horse, and wielded with who was mounted on a piebald horse, and wielded with irresistible force, his ponderous and two edged sword." irresistible force, his ponderous and two edged sword."

Edward Gibbon WritesEdward Gibbon Writes

Appalled by the carnage, Appalled by the carnage, Ali sent a message to Mu'awiya and challenged him to Ali sent a message to Mu'awiya and challenged him to single combat, single combat, saying that whoever won should be the Khalifa. saying that whoever won should be the Khalifa. In Gibbon's words, "Ali generously proposed to save In Gibbon's words, "Ali generously proposed to save the blood of the Muslims by a single combat; the blood of the Muslims by a single combat; but his trembling rival (Mu’awiya) declined the but his trembling rival (Mu’awiya) declined the challenge as a sentence of inevitable death." challenge as a sentence of inevitable death." Mu'awiya had indeed lost his nerve, and was about to Mu'awiya had indeed lost his nerve, and was about to flee from the field, flee from the field, a trick of his accomplice Amr ibn al-Aas saved them a trick of his accomplice Amr ibn al-Aas saved them from destruction. from destruction.

Edward Gibbon WritesEdward Gibbon Writes

At length, Mu'awiya made his mercenaries tie copies of Holy Quran to At length, Mu'awiya made his mercenaries tie copies of Holy Quran to their lances and flags, demanding for the decision of arbitration. their lances and flags, demanding for the decision of arbitration.

Tabari (6th vol., p. 46) writes that, Tabari (6th vol., p. 46) writes that, "The defeat startled Mu'awiya in the face. "The defeat startled Mu'awiya in the face. Amr Ibn al-Aas, however, had a trick up his sleeve for this Amr Ibn al-Aas, however, had a trick up his sleeve for this emergency, emergency, and it was the raising of the Quran aloft on spear-heads, and and it was the raising of the Quran aloft on spear-heads, and announcing, "Brethren, this Book of God alone will decide between announcing, "Brethren, this Book of God alone will decide between you and us." you and us." It will be recalled that even before the commencement of the battle,It will be recalled that even before the commencement of the battle,Ali had invited Mu'awiya by sending his three men to turn to the Ali had invited Mu'awiya by sending his three men to turn to the Quran for a decision, but Mu’awiya declined the offer, by telling Quran for a decision, but Mu’awiya declined the offer, by telling them: them:

"Go away from here, only the sword will decide between us." (Tabari, 5th vol., p. 243).(Tabari, 5th vol., p. 243).

The Intercession of the Holy QuranThe Intercession of the Holy Quran

Now they sought the intercession of the Holy Quran Now they sought the intercession of the Holy Quran to escape the unpleasant consequences of an to escape the unpleasant consequences of an ignominious defeat. ignominious defeat. At this Ali came forward and expostulated his soldiers, At this Ali came forward and expostulated his soldiers, saying, saying, "It is an infamous stratagem and a nefarious device "It is an infamous stratagem and a nefarious device

of Amr and Mu'awiya to cloak their defeat. of Amr and Mu'awiya to cloak their defeat. Beware of the trick which they are playing. Beware of the trick which they are playing.

You should fight to a finish." You should fight to a finish." But Ali's men refused to fight. But Ali's men refused to fight. Ali, with a great expectation of victory in sight, was Ali, with a great expectation of victory in sight, was therefore impelled to call a retreat. therefore impelled to call a retreat.

Possibilities of ArbitrationPossibilities of Arbitration

Mu'awiya and Amr did not necessarily think that all of Ali's Mu'awiya and Amr did not necessarily think that all of Ali's army would accept an arbitration, army would accept an arbitration,

but they were sure that some of them would favor this, but they were sure that some of them would favor this, and so at the least it would cause dissension in Ali's and so at the least it would cause dissension in Ali's army.army.

Ali's entire army quickly began chanting along with Ali's entire army quickly began chanting along with Mu'awiya's men.Mu'awiya's men.

Ali urged his army to fight on, saying that Mu'awiya was Ali urged his army to fight on, saying that Mu'awiya was simply using a trick and was on the point of defeat, simply using a trick and was on the point of defeat, but the soldiers did not listen. but the soldiers did not listen. Ali and al-Ashtar spent a long time arguing against their Ali and al-Ashtar spent a long time arguing against their men, but they could not change their minds. men, but they could not change their minds.

Upon Seeing the Quran on SpearsUpon Seeing the Quran on Spears

Ali's fighters, taken aback and confused, became divided, Ali's fighters, taken aback and confused, became divided, each arguing with the other.  each arguing with the other.  Of course, Al-Ash'ath, the General in Ali's camp, now a Of course, Al-Ash'ath, the General in Ali's camp, now a secret agent working for Mu'awiya, was the most secret agent working for Mu'awiya, was the most persistent on stopping the fight.  persistent on stopping the fight.  He undermined everything and added much to the He undermined everything and added much to the confusion and was quite decisive in halting the fight.  confusion and was quite decisive in halting the fight.  Some of the staunch fighters in Ali's camp even began to Some of the staunch fighters in Ali's camp even began to threaten Ali with his life if he didn't agree to Mu'awiya's threaten Ali with his life if he didn't agree to Mu'awiya's request!request!Having had no choice, Ali reluctantly and unwillingly had Having had no choice, Ali reluctantly and unwillingly had to consent to the demands of his fighters.  They wanted to consent to the demands of his fighters.  They wanted arbitration, and arbitration they got.arbitration, and arbitration they got.

About the NegotiationsAbout the Negotiations

Meanwhile Ali's followers now became divided; Meanwhile Ali's followers now became divided; a group of 12,000 soldiers broke away from the main army, a group of 12,000 soldiers broke away from the main army, and instead camped at the nearby village of Harura. and instead camped at the nearby village of Harura. They took issue with the arbitration because they did not see it as They took issue with the arbitration because they did not see it as proper under Islam. proper under Islam. They said that the leadership of the Muslim world was not Ali's nor They said that the leadership of the Muslim world was not Ali's nor Mu'awiya’s personal property, Mu'awiya’s personal property, Ali managed to persuade them to rejoin his army, but it proved Ali managed to persuade them to rejoin his army, but it proved only temporary. only temporary. These soldiers later became the core of the Kharijis (dissenters) These soldiers later became the core of the Kharijis (dissenters) ..الخواِرجالخواِرج

Events During SiffinEvents During Siffin

1.1. Ali’s vivacious spirit did wonders to his Ali’s vivacious spirit did wonders to his campcamp

2.2. Hashim ibn Utba and Ammar ibn Yasir Hashim ibn Utba and Ammar ibn Yasir 3.3. Importance of AmmarImportance of Ammar4.4. The charge of AmmarThe charge of Ammar5.5. Ibn Aas comes to the challengeIbn Aas comes to the challenge6.6. Ash'ath became a secret agent for Ash'ath became a secret agent for

Mu'awiya Mu'awiya

Event: Event: Ali During SiffinAli During Siffin

Even though Ali was near 58 years old, his boldness, Even though Ali was near 58 years old, his boldness, unique prowess, and incising hits had the same lightning unique prowess, and incising hits had the same lightning speed as when he was younger.  speed as when he was younger. 

The vivacious spirit of Ali did wonders to his camp.  The vivacious spirit of Ali did wonders to his camp.  His fighters followed suit, and the fighting was fierce.  His fighters followed suit, and the fighting was fierce.  Every time Ali finished an opponent he would yell Every time Ali finished an opponent he would yell "Allaahu Akbar", and it is said in one day he shouted "Allaahu Akbar", and it is said in one day he shouted Allaahu Akbar 523 times!Allaahu Akbar 523 times!

The sound and fury of the battle was ominous and to see The sound and fury of the battle was ominous and to see death beaming in the eye is a frightening experience.  death beaming in the eye is a frightening experience.  Everyone was thankful when nighttime came and the two Everyone was thankful when nighttime came and the two groups disengaged, and each was after their own groups disengaged, and each was after their own wounded.wounded.

Event:Event: Hashim ibn Utba and Ammar ibn YasirHashim ibn Utba and Ammar ibn Yasir

The fighting continued fiercely, and casualties mounted, The fighting continued fiercely, and casualties mounted, including Hashim ibn Utba and Ammar ibn Yasir, including Hashim ibn Utba and Ammar ibn Yasir, both of whom were Companions of the Prophet on the both of whom were Companions of the Prophet on the side of Ali. side of Ali. Both sides had by now ran out of ammunition for their Both sides had by now ran out of ammunition for their quiversquiversand so the battle was fought hand-to-hand. and so the battle was fought hand-to-hand. Both Ali and Mu'awiya were unhappy at the heavy Both Ali and Mu'awiya were unhappy at the heavy losses both sides were taking, losses both sides were taking, but Mu'awiya was particularly dejected, believing that but Mu'awiya was particularly dejected, believing that the battle would eventually be lost.the battle would eventually be lost.

EventEvent: : Importance of AmmarImportance of Ammar

Ammar, about 93 yrs old, was in Ali’s campAmmar, about 93 yrs old, was in Ali’s campAmmar, was highly regarded Companion of the ProphetAmmar, was highly regarded Companion of the ProphetThe Prophet (pbuh) had told Ammar 30 Yrs earlier:The Prophet (pbuh) had told Ammar 30 Yrs earlier:

الباغيه الفئة تقتلك سوف عماِر الباغيه يا الفئة تقتلك سوف عماِر يا””O’ Ammar, you will be killed by the malicious group.”O’ Ammar, you will be killed by the malicious group.”

Ammar along with 400 companions fought Mu’awiya Ammar along with 400 companions fought Mu’awiya bravely until Ammar was killed.bravely until Ammar was killed.

A lot of Commotion was the result in Mu’awiya’s camp.A lot of Commotion was the result in Mu’awiya’s camp.Since they knew of the Prophet’s Saying on his behalf.Since they knew of the Prophet’s Saying on his behalf.Added to that, the ominous news of Ammar's death confirmed to Added to that, the ominous news of Ammar's death confirmed to them that they were the malicious side, not Ali’s.them that they were the malicious side, not Ali’s.

Ammar’s ChargeAmmar’s Charge

Ammar asked for a drink before chargingAmmar asked for a drink before chargingIt was milk, just as the Prophet had informed him that It was milk, just as the Prophet had informed him that before his death he would have a drink of milk.before his death he would have a drink of milk.

Ammar, charging by now, kept repeating, Ammar, charging by now, kept repeating,

"Follow me to Heavens, follow me to Heavens," "Follow me to Heavens, follow me to Heavens," and people kept following him, and they kept fighting.  and people kept following him, and they kept fighting.  Ammar at one time was near the tent of Mu'awiya Ammar at one time was near the tent of Mu'awiya when he was surrounded by too many of the foe and when he was surrounded by too many of the foe and cut badly.  cut badly.  He managed to reach Ali's camp despite his wounds He managed to reach Ali's camp despite his wounds and he died as the Prophet had told him beforeand he died as the Prophet had told him before..

EventEvent: : Ibn Aas comes to the challengeIbn Aas comes to the challenge

Amr Ibn Aas, (the General of Mu’awiya) came out to challenge Ali.  Amr Ibn Aas, (the General of Mu’awiya) came out to challenge Ali.  Ibn Aas was overwhelmed by Ali, and he lost control and fell to the Ibn Aas was overwhelmed by Ali, and he lost control and fell to the ground.  ground.  When Ali was about to slay him, When Ali was about to slay him, Ibn Aas, lying on his back and shaking nervously, alarmed, Ibn Aas, lying on his back and shaking nervously, alarmed, raised his legs and displayed his genital parts to Ali and all raised his legs and displayed his genital parts to Ali and all around!  around!  He did this to disgust Ali and to spare him his life!  He did this to disgust Ali and to spare him his life! 

Seeing Ibn Aas lying on his back, shaking with fright, legs up in the Seeing Ibn Aas lying on his back, shaking with fright, legs up in the air, exposing his male organ in such a humiliating manner: air, exposing his male organ in such a humiliating manner:

Ali became disgusted and turned his head away, bypassing Ibn Ali became disgusted and turned his head away, bypassing Ibn Aas.  Aas.  Ali gave Ibn Aas his life rather than kill him.  Ali believed that by Ali gave Ibn Aas his life rather than kill him.  Ali believed that by such act, Ibn Aas was too lowly to be hit by his sword! such act, Ibn Aas was too lowly to be hit by his sword!

EventEvent: : Works of Secret Agent, Ash’athWorks of Secret Agent, Ash’ath

Mu’awiya’s agent approached a one-eyed General in Imam Mu’awiya’s agent approached a one-eyed General in Imam Ali's forces by the name of Ash'ath Ali's forces by the name of Ash'ath

who was one of the three most important commanders.  who was one of the three most important commanders.  Mu'awiya sent a secret message promising Ash'ath wealth Mu'awiya sent a secret message promising Ash'ath wealth and enticing position if he helped disrupt Ali's camp.  and enticing position if he helped disrupt Ali's camp.  He promised to reward him exceptionally well, lavishly so.He promised to reward him exceptionally well, lavishly so.

Ash'ath became a secret agent for Mu'awiya, Ash'ath became a secret agent for Mu'awiya, and from then on this man never lost an opportunity without and from then on this man never lost an opportunity without undoing Ali's side. undoing Ali's side. He was quite effective in undermining Ali's side, even He was quite effective in undermining Ali's side, even though his daughter was married to Al-Hasan the son of Ali!though his daughter was married to Al-Hasan the son of Ali!

The Arbitration:The Arbitration:

1.1. The arbitratorsThe arbitrators

2.2. Ali’s soldiers: Confused and AngryAli’s soldiers: Confused and Angry

3.3. Ali’s adviceAli’s advice

4.4. Deliberations of the arbitrationDeliberations of the arbitration

5.5. The representative in the arbitration, The representative in the arbitration,

6.6. The deceit of Ibn AasThe deceit of Ibn Aas

7.7. The Kharijis and the upheaval in IraqThe Kharijis and the upheaval in Iraq

Ali’s Soldiers: Confused and AngryAli’s Soldiers: Confused and Angry

The soldiers of Ali were impatient, noisy and quite angry:The soldiers of Ali were impatient, noisy and quite angry:They attacked al-Ashtar with whips, calling him a warmonger; They attacked al-Ashtar with whips, calling him a warmonger; they even threatened to send Ali to Mu'awiya as a prisoner if they even threatened to send Ali to Mu'awiya as a prisoner if he did not accept the arbitration. he did not accept the arbitration. With his army in mutiny against him, Ali had no choice but to With his army in mutiny against him, Ali had no choice but to accept the arbitration.accept the arbitration.

Ali wanted:Ali wanted:his kinsman Abdullah ibn Abbas or Malik al-Ashtar his kinsman Abdullah ibn Abbas or Malik al-Ashtar to represent him in the arbitration, to represent him in the arbitration, but the army rejected these candidates. They claimed Al-but the army rejected these candidates. They claimed Al-Ashtar as too prejudiced, and Ibn Abbas was related, very Ashtar as too prejudiced, and Ibn Abbas was related, very close to his cause.close to his cause.

So Ali's men insisted that Abu Musa al-Ash'ari be the So Ali's men insisted that Abu Musa al-Ash'ari be the representative. representative.

Ali’s AdviceAli’s Advice

The arbitration was to be in Ramadhan a year The arbitration was to be in Ramadhan a year hence.hence.

Ali had to agree to his fighter’s insistence of this choiceAli had to agree to his fighter’s insistence of this choicein order to ward off bloody dissensions in his army. in order to ward off bloody dissensions in his army.

According to According to “Usud al Ghaaba" (3rd vol., p. 246),“Usud al Ghaaba" (3rd vol., p. 246), Ali: Ali:had, therefore, taken care to personally explain to the had, therefore, taken care to personally explain to the arbitrators, arbitrators,

"You are arbiters on condition that you decide according to the Book of God,

and if you are not so inclined you should not deem yourselves to be arbiters."

Arbitration at Daumat al-Jandal Arbitration at Daumat al-Jandal دومة دومةالجندلالجندل

Daumat al-Jandal Daumat al-Jandal NowadaysNowadays

Deliberations of the ArbitrationDeliberations of the Arbitration

One year after the Siffin battle the arbitration took place as One year after the Siffin battle the arbitration took place as agreed upon.  agreed upon. 

There were deliberations for two months.  There were deliberations for two months.  Ash'ari was no match to Ibn Aas, as Ali had expected.  Ash'ari was no match to Ibn Aas, as Ali had expected.  Ali's representative was easily tricked by Ibn Aas, a stinking Ali's representative was easily tricked by Ibn Aas, a stinking story in itself!story in itself!

Ibn Aas had convinced Ash'ari that it was best to demote both Ibn Aas had convinced Ash'ari that it was best to demote both Ali and Mu'awiya and let the people decide their choices.  Ali and Mu'awiya and let the people decide their choices.  Ibn Aas flattered the old Ash'ari to deliver his speech first,Ibn Aas flattered the old Ash'ari to deliver his speech first,

though Ali's side tried to persuade Ash'ari not to, since none though Ali's side tried to persuade Ash'ari not to, since none could trust Ibn Aas.  could trust Ibn Aas.  Ash'ari did not listen to them and he naively accepted.  And:Ash'ari did not listen to them and he naively accepted.  And:

The Deceit of Ibn AasThe Deceit of Ibn Aas

Ash'ari ascended the Minbar (pulpit) and announced that:Ash'ari ascended the Minbar (pulpit) and announced that:Ali and Mu'awiya were to be removed Ali and Mu'awiya were to be removed and for the people to make their choices afterwards.and for the people to make their choices afterwards.

Ash'ari was followed by Ibn Aas.  Ash'ari was followed by Ibn Aas.  Ibn Aas said, Ibn Aas said,

"I agree with Ash'ari that Ali is to be removed, "I agree with Ash'ari that Ali is to be removed, but in my opinion Mu'awiya is fit for the Khilaafah and should be the but in my opinion Mu'awiya is fit for the Khilaafah and should be the new Khalifa!"  new Khalifa!" 

With that an uproar came about andWith that an uproar came about and Ali's people knew they were double crossed, Ali's people knew they were double crossed, emotions were high and emotions were high and they went home agonizing at the deceit. they went home agonizing at the deceit.

The Upheaval in IraqThe Upheaval in Iraq

In Iraq, emotional upheaval was evident, In Iraq, emotional upheaval was evident, and because of these treacheries, another and because of these treacheries, another confrontation against Mu'awiya was in the mind, confrontation against Mu'awiya was in the mind, and Ali once more was busy preparing a large new and Ali once more was busy preparing a large new force.  force.  But he continued with a heavy, sorrowful heart, yet But he continued with a heavy, sorrowful heart, yet holding to his Islamic ideals unswervingly.  holding to his Islamic ideals unswervingly.  As if this was not enough, the Kharijis broke rank and As if this was not enough, the Kharijis broke rank and rebelled against him.rebelled against him.They spread devastation everywhere: killing and They spread devastation everywhere: killing and destroying, and many towns and villages suffered at destroying, and many towns and villages suffered at their hands.  their hands. 

In ConclusionIn Conclusion

Ali: and the Battle of SiffinAli: and the Battle of SiffinFollowing Uthman’s DeathAli’s CampMu’awiya’s CampAli Heading to face Mu’awiyaAli’s forces Reach al-Raqqa الرقهThe BattleWilliam Muir WritesEdward Gibbon WritesArbitration at Daumat al-Jandal الجندل دومةThe Deceit of Ibn Aas

Finally we quote the Quran:Finally we quote the Quran:

•By the Token of Time •Verily Man is in loss,•Except those who believe and do good works, and exhort one another to Truth and exhort one another to patience.

ح-مِن� • الر. الله� � م �ْس- ِب

� ح�يم الر.-َع2ْص-ر� و2ال

• � ا �َّن. ر7 الِإ ُخ8ْس- 2ف�ي ل اَّن2 نْس2•� 8وا الِإ و2ع2م�ل 8وا آم2ن .ِذ�يِن2 ال

2و2اَص2و-ا و2ت �ح2اِت� الْص.ال-ر� �الْص.ب ِب 2و2اَص2و-ا و2ت -ح2ِّق@ �ال ِب

THANK YOUTHANK YOU

Be in God’s CareBe in God’s Care

Dr. A.S. HashimDr. A.S. Hashim