Futuhusham_-_The_Islamic_Conquest_of_Syria_-_Al_Waqidi

Part 1:Damascus
on their armour, prepared their goods and displayed their adornment. The Chief
Priest then prayed for their victory and assistance, "0 God! Help whichever party is
on the Truth."
Incense was burned in the churches and holy water sprinkled over them. Caesar
himself came to bid them farewell and so they left following Christian 'Arab guides.
Yasir bin Husayn narrates:
Yazid bin Abi Sufyan • reached Tabuk three days before the Romans. On the fourth
day, the £anabah of Rasulullah • intended to advance but saw dust rising in the
distance. Allah then inspired them with a clever strategy. Yazid bin Abi Sufyan •
ordered Rabi'ah bin 'Arnir. to hide in ambush with 1,000 men while he himselfled
1,000 to face the enemy and drew them in rows. He gave some advice and mentioned
Allah's favours, then said, "Remember that Allah has promised you victory in most
places. He has sent angels to your aid and says in the Quran:
How often a small group overcame a mighty force by Allah 50
leave? And Allah is with the patient ones. [2:249J
Our Master, Rasulullah ., said that Paradise lies under the shadow of swords. 0 my
brothers, the very first army to make Jihad against the Romans is this very army of
yours. Whichever Muslim army may come to join you will come to help you while
you remain the original force. So it is required of you to display that which the
Muslims are expecting of you. The enemy is confronting you, therefore be careful
that they do not have hopes of killing you. Help Allah's Din and He will help you."
While yftzid • was advising them, the Roman vanguard, followed by the main body
arrived. Seeing a small 'Arab force, they thought this to be the entire 'Arab army.
They shouted and said to each other, "Encircle those who have come intending to
snatch your Empire, dishonour you and slay your kings. Draw help from the Cross
so that it may come to your assistance." They then attacked.
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