Today, on the 25th of Rabi al-Thani, we remember one of the most defining moments in Islamic history, the Battle of Hattin, led by the noble Sultan Salah al-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub (Saladin).
This day marked a victory that reshaped the Holy Land and stands as a symbol of unity, strategy, and faith in the face of overwhelming odds.
Setting the Scene
The Battle of Hattin was fought between the Crusader states of the Levant and the Ayyubid Sultan Saladin near Tiberias, in present-day Palestine.
It would lead to the recapture of Jerusalem and mark the beginning of a new chapter in the Crusades.
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In 1186, Guy of Lusignan became King of Jerusalem through his marriage to Queen Sibylla, the mother of the child-King Baldwin V.
His reign was divided between two factions — the Court Party, loyal to Guy and in favour of aggression toward Saladin, and the Nobles’ Party, led by Raymond III of Tripoli, who urged diplomacy and truces with the Muslims.
These divisions weakened the Crusader kingdom, leaving it vulnerable to collapse.
Tensions Before Battle
One of the Court Party’s most reckless figures, Raynald of Châtillon, repeatedly attacked Muslim caravans despite existing truces.
Saladin, who had by then united Egypt, Damascus, and Aleppo under his rule, used these provocations as justification for invasion.
Some historians even suggest that Raymond III secretly corresponded with Saladin, though such claims remain uncertain.
In 1187, while a truce was still in place, Raynald attacked a Muslim caravan bound for Hajj, violating the peace.
Saladin swore that he would personally kill Raynald for breaking his word.
Soon after, Saladin’s son al-Afdal raided the Crusader lands near Acre, leading to the Battle of Cresson in May.
The Crusaders suffered heavy losses, around 150 knights and 300 infantry, crippling their defences ahead of Hattin.
The Road to Hattin
By June, Saladin laid siege to Tiberias.
Many advised King Guy not to engage, recognising it as a trap, but the divided leadership pushed him to advance.
Saladin gathered an army of around 40,000 men, including Druze allies led by Jamal ad-Din Hajji, while the Crusader force numbered 18,000 to 20,000.
Saladin’s plan was to lure the Crusaders away from the springs of La Sopherie, their only water source.
He attacked Tiberias, knowing that within its walls was Eschiva of Bures, the wife of Raymond III.
Though Raymond realised Saladin’s intent, he could not stop the march.
King Guy, uncertain and pressured, led his army across the dry July plains — away from water and into Saladin’s hands.
Encircled by Fire and Faith
As the Crusaders neared the Spring of Kafr Hattin, Saladin’s forces cut off their access to water.
That night, the Muslims filled the air with remembrance of Allah — chanting Allahu Akbar, reciting prayers, and beating drums.
They set fire to the dry grass, filling the air with heat and smoke.
The Crusaders’ thirst and fear became unbearable.
By dawn, Saladin’s army was refreshed and ready. The Crusaders, exhausted and desperate, tried to form ranks as the sun rose over the plain.
Saladin’s cavalry charged, and his archers unleashed a relentless rain of arrows.
Their lines broke. The army of Jerusalem collapsed.
Collapse and Capture
Desperate for water, Raymond’s division broke formation and fled toward the springs, leaving King Guy isolated and surrounded.
The Crusader camp fell soon after. Almost the entire army was killed or captured.
Saladin captured King Guy, Raynald of Châtillon, and other commanders.
True to his word, Saladin executed Raynald for violating the truce.
To King Guy, however, he showed mercy. Offering him water, he said,
“Kings do not kill kings.”
This act of honour and restraint became one of the most famous moments in Islamic history.
The Aftermath
In the weeks that followed, Saladin’s forces swept through the Crusader strongholds of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, reclaiming Acre, Nablus, Jaffa, and finally Jerusalem itself in October 1187.
For the first time in nearly a century, the city returned peacefully to Muslim rule.
Saladin’s victory at Hattin became a symbol of unity, strategy, and divine support — a moment when faith and justice triumphed over division and arrogance.
A Lesson for Today
On this 25th of Rabi al-Thani, as we remember Hattin, we are reminded that true strength lies not only in the sword but in faith, unity, and mercy.
Saladin’s wisdom and restraint teach us that victory is achieved not through vengeance but through discipline, compassion, and justice.
Today, as we witness the ongoing suffering and struggle of our brothers and sisters in Palestine, this story echoes deeply.
The land where Saladin once restored peace and dignity remains a place of trial and resilience.
May we take from his example the courage to stand firm, the patience to endure, and the mercy to act with integrity.
And may Allah bring justice, healing, and liberation to Palestine and all oppressed lands.
“Kings do not kill kings.”