A Caged Lion at Qadisiyya
Imprisoned by Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas at Qadisiyya for drinking, Abu Mihjan watched the battle through his prison window — “chafing like a caged lion at the idea of being debarred from taking part in the heroic scene.” 1 Al-Farooq · pp. 151–153 — Shibli Numani — Abu Mihjan watches the battle from his prison window. He appealed on oath to Salma (Sa’d’s wife) that “if he survived the fray he would come back and put on the fetters himself.” She unshackled him. 2 Al-Farooq · pp. 151–153 — Shibli Numani — Salma releases him on his sworn promise to return.
Balqa Through the Lines
He mounted Sa’d’s mare Balqa and “passed like a whirlwind from the right to the left wing… wheeling about he dashed against the enemy with such irresistible force that all gave way before him.” At evening he returned and re-fettered himself. 3 Al-Farooq · pp. 151–153 — Shibli Numani — Abu Mihjan's charge through the Persian ranks on Balqa.
When Sa’d learned of it, he released him: “By Allah! I cannot inflict punishment upon the person who proves his devotion to Islam in such a manner.” Abu Mihjan declared: “By Allah! I shall never taste wine after this.” 4 Al-Farooq · pp. 151–153 — Shibli Numani — Sa'd releases Abu Mihjan; his oath against wine.
Life Timeline
Imprisoned by Sa'd at Qadisiyya for drinking
Breaks free, rides Balqa, turns the battle; returns to his chains
References
- Al-Farooq — Shibli Numani — the famous account of Abu Mihjan at Qadisiyya; cites Kitab al-Kharaj of Qadi Abu Yusuf p.18 pp. 151–153
- History of Islam — Najeebabadi — Abu Mihjan Thaqafi 'and some other officers stood by him' (Sa'd) at Qadisiyya Vol 1 · pp. —