The Outset of Dissension in Islam — Page 55
55 would not tolerate mischief for even a minute. However, later events substantiate that his repentance was only temporary and the opinion of Hadrat Mu‘ a wiyah ra was correct, in that these were foolish people who were only good for being used as weapons. In the meanwhile, ‘ Abdull a h bin Sab a had not remained idle. Quite the contrary, for some time, he had adopted the strategy of dispatching agents to various regions and thus, spread his views. Without a shadow of doubt, this was a man of extraordinary intelligence and judgement. The orders he would give to his agents shed ample light on the framework of his mind. Whilst dispatching his representatives, he would advise them: “Do not be hasty in disclosing your views to people at once; rather, exhort and advise them first. Recite to them the injunctions of the shariah. Enjoin goodness and forbid evil. When the people observe this manner of admonition, their hearts will be drawn towards you. They will listen to you with enthusiasm and will begin to trust you. Only then present your particular views skilfully; they will accept them very quickly. Moreover, be cautious not to speak against Hadrat ‘ Uthm a n ra at the very outset; rather, incite people against his representatives first. ” The purpose behind this was that since the people held a special religious attachment with Hadrat ‘Uthm a n ra , they would become enraged upon hearing words against him. However, they would accept statements against governors as this would not move their religious sentiments. In this manner, when their hearts would turn black and the obstinacy that results from