Ali Ibn Abi Talib - Volume 2 of 2

'Ali ibn Abi Ttlib 1 75
Mu'mineen: "We will go out with you, hut we will not join your
camp. We will camp on our own until we see how things turn out
between you and the people of Syria. If we see someone wanting that
which is not permissible for him or transgressing, then we will he
against him. 'Ali (&) said: 'Welcome; this is a deep understanding
of Islam and knowledge of the Sunnah. Whoever does not approve of
this is a transgressor and betrayer."'636
In fact, this attitude is based on conviction and views that were
deeply rooted in their souls, and they fought on that
2.2.10. Treatment of captives
Good treatment of the captives and kindness towards them is
something to he expected at Siffeen, since we have discussed the
noble conduct of both sides when fighting. Islam has outlined how
captives are to be treated. The Messenger of Allah (gJ encouraged
kind treatment of captives and giving them the best available food.
This was in the case of non-Muslims, so how about if the captives are
Muslims? Undoubtedly honouring them and treating them kindly is
emphasised even more.
However, a prisoner of war is regarded as a potential
reinforcement for his group if he is released.638 Hence 'Ali (&)
instructed that they should be detained. If any prisoner swore
allegiance to him, he was to he released; if he refused, his weapon
and mount were to he confiscated or given to the one who had
captured him, and he was asked to swear an oath that he would not
fight. According to one report, he would give him four dirhams.639
'Ali's aim in doing that is quite clear; it was to weaken the rebel side.
A prisoner was brought to him on the day of Siffeen, and he said: "Do
not kill me in captivity." 'Ali (&) said: ''I will not kill you in
captivity, for I fear Allah, the Lord of the worlds." He let him go,
then he said: "Is there any goodness in you to swear a~legiance?"~~