Futuhusham_-_The_Islamic_Conquest_of_Syria_-_Al_Waqidi

Part 3: Al - Yarmiik
I wandered in that state of confusion for two days and nights until the Muslims began
to question me about that. I said to them, "I am on the right track."
On the tenth day of our departure from al-Madinah, a huge mountain became visible.
I scrutinised it but could not recognise it, so I said, "You have deceived the Muslims
but if that is the mountain of Ba'labakk then the road will easily be found."
The mountain was visible at the beginning of the day, but we only reached it at night.
As we neared it we came across a valley where there was a massive tree. Upon
examining it I recognised it and called out, "Good news. We have attained Syria and
victory for the Muslims."
Once we entered the valley we found it to be rough and roadless and this added to
the fatigue of the Muslims. Most of the Muslims were on foot, supporting each other
as they followed the camels and horses. When the Muslims saw the desolateness of
the valley and the rough path, they complained, "0 Sa'id, we think that you have lost
the road and are taking us on the wrong path. Let us rest for a while in this valley for
thisjoumey has really harmed us."
I gave them permission, so they went to drink from a gushing spring in the valley and
watered their camels and horses and let them graze from the leaves of the trees. Most
of the Muslims went to sleep while some engaged themselves in conveying
salutations upon Muhammad lit. I was sitting amongst the sleeping ones to guard
them. I recited the Quran and was making du 'a for safety when sleep overcame me.
I dreamt that I was in a garden with many trees and fruit. I was eating from its fruit
and drinking from its rivers. I also plucked the fruit to give to my companions. They
ate and I was happy. While I was in that state a lion suddenly sprang from amongst
the trees and roared right in my face, intending to rip me apart. Suddenly two giant
lions attacked the lion and brought it to the ground. It rumbled loudly and with that
I awoke with the sweetness of the fruit still in my mouth and the image of the lions
in my mind.
I interpreted the dream to mean that the Muslims would gain great booty which they
would then be prevented from, but would again triumph in the end. I said to myself,
"The garden perhaps represents martyrdom."
I continued to sit and read the Quran in a state of great anxiety when I heard a voice
call out from the right side of the valley:
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