The Prelude to Battle
This confrontation came about when a group of Bedouin tribes gathered in the region of Wadi al-Raml with the intention of launching a surprise attack on Madinah. The people of the city were unaware of the impending threat until a Bedouin man arrived to inform the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family).
Upon hearing the news, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him and his family) entrusted his banner to Imam Ali (peace be upon him), commanding him to lead a contingent under the banner of “The Prophet” and confront the hostile tribes by nightfall.
The Dread of the Enemy upon Hearing His Name
At dawn, Imam Ali (peace be upon him) and his companions reached the enemy camp. After leading them in the dawn prayer, he arrayed his troops in formation and, leaning on his sword, proclaimed:
“O people! I am the messenger of the Prophet to you. Declare that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, or I shall advance upon you with the sword.”
The enemy replied mockingly, “Return as your two friends did before you!” Imam Ali (peace be upon him) responded firmly:
“Shall I return? By Allah, I shall not retreat until you submit to the truth or I strike you down with this sword. I am Ali, the son of Abu Talib, son of Abd al-Muttalib.”
When they realized who stood before them, fear overcame their hearts. Many fled, while others were struck down or taken captive. Ultimately, the army of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) achieved a resounding victory.
Revelation of the Divine Approval
Lady Umm Salama (may Allah be pleased with her) narrates:
“The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him and his family) was resting in my house when he suddenly awoke. I asked, ‘May Allah protect you, O Messenger of Allah!’ He said, ‘Indeed, Allah protects me. But Jibril has come to inform me that Ali has returned victorious.’ The Prophet then went out to the people and ordered them to go forth to greet Ali.”
The Muslims, led by the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family) himself, lined up in two rows to welcome the triumphant commander. When Imam Ali (peace be upon him) appeared, he dismounted and approached the Messenger of Allah, who embraced him and said,
“Mount once again, O Ali, for Allah and His Messenger are pleased with you.”
Overwhelmed with joy, Imam Ali (peace be upon him) wept tears of gratitude and returned to his home in humility and praise of Allah.
It was on this occasion that Surah al-Adiyat was revealed—a celestial tribute to the gallant steeds of battle and, above all, to the unyielding valor and faith of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) in the service of divine truth.