Spitting at Hazrat Ali - Daftar-e-Awwal

In the early years of Islam in Arab territories, newly converted Muslims engaged in several fights with those who did not yet believe in Islam, commonly referred to as infidels. Ali, the prophet's son-in-law and a capable fighter, came face to face with another capable soldier in one war. In a brief, fast combat, Ali managed to bring his opponent to his knees and then raised his sword to kill him. The proud soldier realized he was about to die, and all he could think of was to spit in Ali's face one last time. Ali quickly pulled his sword and took a step back, saving the man's life.

The conquered warrior was taken aback; he had braced himself for the worst and was now confused that he was still alive. He demanded an explanation as to why Ali had taken pity on him. Ali, you had drawn your blade to finish me off but changed your mind, the warrior said before Ali could walk away from their fight. What prompted you to lay down your weapon? When we fought, what did you see in me that made you lose interest and spare my life? You had the upper hand; the fight was yours to win. What was more essential than putting an end to my life? What kept you from exploding in rage at that very moment?

I only fight for God, Ali replied. I'm not in the business of preserving my own skin; I'm God's servant. I'm God's unstoppable lion, not a whimsy passionate warrior! My belief is expressed via actions rather than words. Although I wield the sword, it is God who strikes. I will not move unless it is by God's will, just as the wind cannot move a mountain.

Most rulers lose their heads because of rage, but anger is my devoted slave! My patience has certainly set me free from the shackles of rage. My sword does not kill, but rather gives life! You spat at me, bringing up an issue that had nothing to do with God, and I never fight for anything other than God. Your spitting irritated my ego, causing me to become enraged. I would have been battling half for God and half for my ego if I had used my sword! That is why I decided to put my blade away.

Ali then turned around and walked away, not looking back.

In the early years of Islam in Arab territories, newly converted Muslims engaged in several fights with those who did not yet believe in Islam, commonly referred to as infidels. Ali, the prophet's son-in-law and a capable fighter, came face to face with another capable soldier in one war. In a brief, fast combat, Ali managed to bring his opponent to his knees and then raised his sword to kill him. The proud soldier realized he was about to die, and all he could think of was to spit in Ali's face one last time. Ali quickly pulled his sword and took a step back, saving the man's life.

The conquered warrior was taken aback; he had braced himself for the worst and was now confused that he was still alive. He demanded an explanation as to why Ali had taken pity on him. Ali, you had drawn your blade to finish me off but changed your mind, the warrior said before Ali could walk away from their fight. What prompted you to lay down your weapon? When we fought, what did you see in me that made you lose interest and spare my life? You had the upper hand; the fight was yours to win. What was more essential than putting an end to my life? What kept you from exploding in rage at that very moment?

I only fight for God, Ali replied. I'm not in the business of preserving my own skin; I'm God's servant. I'm God's unstoppable lion, not a whimsy passionate warrior! My belief is expressed via actions rather than words. Although I wield the sword, it is God who strikes. I will not move unless it is by God's will, just as the wind cannot move a mountain.

Most rulers lose their heads because of rage, but anger is my devoted slave! My patience has certainly set me free from the shackles of rage. My sword does not kill, but rather gives life! You spat at me, bringing up an issue that had nothing to do with God, and I never fight for anything other than God. Your spitting irritated my ego, causing me to become enraged. I would have been battling half for God and half for my ego if I had used my sword! That is why I decided to put my blade away.

Ali then turned around and walked away, not looking back.