SERMON 43
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.
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