January 27 661

On January 27, 661, the 4th Caliph of the Rashidan Caliphate, Ali Ibn Abu Talib was attacked while praying at the Great Mosque of Kufa in Mesopotamia. Ibn Muljam, a Kharijite struck the Caliph in the head with a poisoned sword. Talib died two days later. Why is this twisted? The leader of the Moslem world was assassinated with a poisoned sword. After Talib’s initial wounding, he said that if he died, that Ibn Muljam should receive the same wound as he, and if he lived, should be set free. After his death, Ibn Muljam was given the same wound as Talib. Surprisingly, he died almost immediately.

I once received a poison pen letter, but it wasn't fatal... which disproves the adage that the pen is mightier than the sword. Share this post to help us debunk more clichés.

About Joel Byers

Born in North Georgia and educated at some very fine public institutions. Real education started after graduating from college and then getting married and raising two boys. Has the ability to see the funny and absurd in most things and will always remark on it, even if it means getting the stink-eye from his victims.
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