Had I not prevented you from reacting severely...

Had I not prevented you from reacting severely, the unfortunate man would have lost his life in a state of idolatry. You have witnessed today, the result of affection and kindness, as opposed to force and harshness.” Friends and Foes Alike After the martyrdom of Imam Ali (‘a) , Muawiya ibn e Abu Sufyan finally acquired total dictatorial control over the Islamic state.

He often met with the followers of Imam Ali (‘a) and teased them so that they should say something against their Maula, but he remained unsuccessful. He wanted them to admit that they were foolish in following and obeying Ali (‘a) ; had suffered immense losses because of adhering with his principles; had gained nothing of value by associating with him; were sorry to have sided with him and opposed Muawiya; wished to make amends and befriend Muawiya; but, in vain.

Not one faithful believer could he find saying anything against him (‘a). Each one mourned his (‘a) loss, terming it as ‘indescribable, eternal grief’ . The love and regard of the faithful for their Commander (‘a) grew even stronger after his martyrdom. They made greater sacrifices to establish the teachings of Islam as learnt from their Master, now that he was no longer among them.

His loss created a greater sense of responsibility in them and inflamed them with a desire to lay their lives down for him (‘a) , his teachings and practice. Muawiya’s efforts to suppress them only helped ignite and strengthen their resolve to follow their Imam (‘a) . One of Imam Ali’s (‘a) renowned followers was ‘Adi ibn e Haatim. He was the chief of the tribe of Taee. He had many sons. He, his sons and his tribesmen were considered Ali’s (‘a) gallant warriors.

His three sons named Turfa, Tareef and Taarif were martyred in the battle of Siffin, fighting alongside their Imam (‘a) . After Imam Ali (‘a) , Muawiya occupied the seat of ruler by force and deceit. He summoned ‘Adi ibn e Haatim to Damascus.

With the intention of causing pain, he asked him, ‘What happened to your sons?’ ‘They were martyred in the battle of Siffin fighting alongside Imam Ali (‘a) .’ ‘Ali did not treat you fairly.’ ‘What makes you say that?’ ‘He sent your sons into the front line of battle and kept his own sons in the rear.’ ‘On the contrary, I think I have not served Ali (‘a) fairly.’ ‘Why do you say that?’ ‘I should have died and saved him, but he got martyred while I still live.’ Muawiya was disappointed again for the umpteenth time.