Nahjul Balagha Part 1, The Sermons

Sermon 43: My preparations for war with the Syrians ...

After Amir al-mu’minin had sent Jarir ibn `Abdillah al-Bajali to Mu`awiyah

After Amir al-mu’minin had sent Jarir ibn `Abdillah al-Bajali to Mu`awiyah (for securing his allegiance) some of his companions suggested preparation to fight with him then he said:

My preparation for war with the people of Syria (ash-Sham) while Jarir ibn `Abdillah al-Bajali is still there would be closing the door for Syria and prevention of its people from good action (i.e. allegiance) if they intend doing it.

However, I have fixed a time limit for Jarir after which he would not stay without either deception or in disobedience. My opinion is in favour of patience, so wait a while. (In the meantime) I do not dislike your getting ready.

I have observed this matter thoroughly from all sides but I do not find any way except war or heresy. Certainly, there was over the people a ruler (before me) who brought about new (un-Islamic) things and compelled the people to speak out. So they did speak, then rose up and thereafter changed the whole system.

Alternative Sources for Sermon 43

(1) Al-Khwarazmi, Manaqib, 108;

(2) Nasr ibn Muzahim, Siffin, 55;

(3) Ibn Qutaybah, al-'Imamah, I, 94;

(4) Ibn `Abd Rabbih, al-`Iqd, II, 108;

(5) al-Saduq, Man la yahduruh, I, 461;

(6) al-Tusi, Misbah, 429.