Nahjul BalaghaSermons
Sermon 132
Delivered when Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab consulted Ameerul Momineen about himself, taking part in the march towards Rome (Byzantine Empire).
Allah has taken upon Himself for the followers of this religion the strengthening of boundaries and hiding of secret places. Allah helped them when they were few and could not protect themselves. He is living and will not die. If you will yourself proceed towards the enemy and clash with them and fall into some trouble, there will be no place of refuge for the Muslims other than their remote cities, nor any place they would return to. Therefore, you should send there an experienced man and send with him people of good performance who are well-intentioned. If Allah grants you victory, then this is what you want. If it is otherwise, you would serve as a support for the people and a returning place for the Muslims.