SERMON 43
After Amir al-mu'minin had sent Jarir
ibn Abdillah al-Bajali to Muawiyah (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.
.Forward to Sermon 44.Back to Sermon 42.