Story No. 216 – Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib’s (as) behaviour towards his Foes (Enemies)
Talha bin Abu Talha was not only a bitter enemy of Islam, but was personal enemy of Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) and Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as). His exertions to harm these two and their mission is a legion. In the battle of Uhud he was the flag bearer of the army of Quraish. Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) faced him and in a hand to hand encounter dealt him such a severe blow that he reeled and fell down. Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) left him like that and walked away from him. Many Muslim warriors ran up to Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) and advised him to finish Talha bin Abu Talha, saying that he was Ali’s worst enemy, Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) replied:
Enemy or no enemy he cannot defend himself now, and I cannot strike a man who is not in a position to defend himself. If he survives he is welcome to live as long as his life lasts.