Likewise, the term “badal” (substitute) occurs in the statements of many of them. As for the report traced back to the Prophet, it is more likely that it is not among his words, peace be upon him. Faith was present in the Hijāz and Yemen before the conquest of Syria, while Syria and Iraq were lands of unbelief. Then, concerning the events during the caliphate of ʿAlī, may Allah be pleased with him, it is authentically established that the Prophet, peace be upon him, said:

“A faction will break away from the Muslims, and whichever of the two parties is closer to the truth will kill them.”

Thus, ʿAlī and his companions were closer to the truth than the people of Syria who fought them. It is well known that the Companions who were with ʿAlī, may Allah be pleased with him, such as ʿAmmār ibn Yāsir, Sahl ibn Hunayf and others like them, were superior to those who were with Muʿāwiyah—even if Saʿd ibn Abī Waqqās and others who refrained from fighting were superior to those who sided with either of them. Given this, how could one believe that all the abdāl, who are the best of mankind, were among the people of Syria? This is categorically false. Although well-known reports relate the virtues of Syria and its people, Allah has appointed a due measure for everything.

One must speak with knowledge and fairness. Whoever speaks about religion without knowledge falls under the words of Allah Most High:

“Do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge,”

and His words:

“And that you say about Allah what you do not know.”

Whoever speaks with fairness and justice falls under the words of Allah Most High:

“O you who believe, stand firmly for justice as witnesses for Allah,”

and His words:

“And when you speak, be just,”

and His words:

“We certainly sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and sent down with them the Scripture and the balance so that people may uphold justice.”

Those who have used the designation badal have explained it in several ways. One is that they are substitutes for the prophets.