Islamic Character

Remaining neutral in a fratricidal war When hostilities broke between Ali and Muawiyah over the murder of the third Caliph, Uthman, Muawiyah summoned Wayel ibn Hajar who belonged to the royal family of Hadhramaut. “Why do you not take my side in this affair?” he asked. Begging to be excused, Wayel said that he had heard these words from the Prophet: “Evil has come upon you like the murkiest hours of the night!” At such a time, what should be done?” Wayel had asked the Prophet. “O Wayel,” the Prophet had replied, “when two swords clash and they both belong to Muslims, keep away from both of them.” (AL-TABARANI)