When in the field of Siffin and intending to face the enemy in single combat, he said: "O Allah! Lord of the high heavens and the calm firmament, whom You have set as the veil for day and night, for the movement of the moon, the sun, and the passing of stars, abode of angels who never tire of worshiping You. Lord of the earth, which You made a resting place for mankind, a habitat for creeping creatures, livestock, and countless visible and invisible beings. Lord of the mighty mountains, which You fixed as pegs for the earth and a support for creation—if You grant us victory over the enemy, restrain us from committing injustice and keep us steadfast on the path of truth; and if You give them victory over us, bestow upon us martyrdom and protect us from the deceits of life. Where now are the guardians of honor and dignity? Where are those who stand firm at the time of adversity to protect their name and repute? (If you flee, then disgrace lies behind you, and if you stand firm, then Paradise is before you.)"