The Legation of Muawiya

Muawiya: Do you want us to forego the demand of retribution for the murder of Usman? By God! I will never do that. This conversation eventually turned into an argument and the attempt to reconcile led nowhere. After the failure of this negotiation, minor fights began but the official war was not started yet. The month of Dhul al-Hijjah 36 AH passed by like this and the new year 37 AH started. After a few days, Ali sent another envoy to negotiate with Ameer Muawiya. This group included Adi ibn Hatim, Zayd ibn Qays, Shabath ibn Ribi and Ziyad ibn Hafsa. This attempt also failed after arguments.

Ameer Muawiya also sent a legation to Ali which included Habib ibn Maslama, Sharjeel and Ma‟n ibn Yazid. When they went to Ali, Habib ibn Maslama started the conversation:

Habib: (After glorification of Allah) Usman was a truthful Caliph. He practised the Book of Allah and passed ordain according to its commands. You were displeased with his life so you hastily pushed him towards death. Indeed you assassinated him. If you claim that you did not kill him then hand over his killers to us and resign from the seat of caliphate. Muslims can elect whoever they want. Ali: Who gave you the authority to talk about the caliphate. Be quiet! You do not deserve to deliver spiel like this. Habib: By God! Soon you shall see me in a state that you will not like.

Ali: What a foul thought! May Allah not keep you alive for that day. Go ahead and do whatever you want to do.