Islamic Values

Killing Muslims to gain power is to be abhorred Abu Areef was one of the vanguard of the Imam Hasan’s 12,000-strong army, which, led by Abu Umar Taha, faced Muawiyah on the battlefield. He recalls how, with their swords still dripping with the blood of the Syrians, they were overcome by fury when Hasan made peace with Muawiyah. “When Hasan came to Kufa, one of our number-a man by the name of Abu Amir Sufyan ibn Layl-went up to him and greeted him as the humiliator of the Muslims. “Do not say that, Abu Amir,” said Hasan. “I have not humiliated the Muslims. I would hate to kill Muslims in order to gain power, and I have simply lived up to that principle.” (AL-BIDAYAH WA AL-NIHAYAH)