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girl4music · 4 years

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Suicide/Self-Sacrifice/Manic-Depression

This may well be my best post yet regarding philosophical theories and artistic interpretations, using the characters and storylines from the show, ‘Xena: Warrior Princess’, as a staple, if I can explain my thoughts and feelings on it well enough. I want to tackle the themes of ‘suicide’, ‘manic-depression’ and ‘self-sacrifice’. Some posts I’ve reblogged on Tumblr have inspired me to write down my take on these subjects, and the situations, circumstances and consequences that follow. This will probably be a very long post, so bear with me. I’ll try to keep on topic as much as possible, as this will be very hard to explain in a way that will not be offending, ignorant or just plain stupid. I want it to come across to people in a positive way!

Callisto:

The character Callisto was introduced in Season 1 and her story was very complicated. It was difficult to understand her consciously and morally for the awful things she was doing, and her reasons as to why she was doing them. Eventually there came to a point in the show where she felt she had nothing left to live for and she wanted to die. This was right after she heard the screams of Xena mourning the death of her son, Solan, in the Season 3 episode, ‘Maternal Instincts’. You see the expression of pure ecstasy on her face, as she had desired this for so long. To make Xena feel the pain and the grief she caused her when she burned her hometown and murdered her family. To give her a taste of the immense torture it had inflicted on her all throughout the years growing up alone and full of revenge, driving her to psychopathy. I’ve said this before, but I could never quite look at Callisto as a villain, as I could see she was so damaged and depressed, that she really couldn’t help becoming the way she did. I feel she was seriously misunderstood, and I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who feels this way about her. This scene in the episode was supposed to be her moment of accomplishment and relief. But then her facial expression begins to change to confusion and apathy. She realized it didn’t do anything to cure her condition, it only made her empty and numb inside. She was waiting for the relief to wash over her and for the pleasure to settle into her system and it didn’t. After so many years of wanting to destroy Xena’s soul, she finally got her wish… and it did NOTHING!

What brought her to the point of yearning for death was the fact that she couldn’t feel anything anymore. Not even her hatred for Xena… which was what was motivating her to hold on to her life to begin with. She believed the only meaning to her life was to destroy Xena’s. The delicious scent of fulfillment never came, and she was done with it. From that point onwards she craved oblivion, and unfortunately for her, since becoming a god, that wasn’t possible. The Olympian gods cannot take their own lives. Another must do it or they must get permission from Zeus, as their roles as immortals are important and too valuable to be wasted, according to the king of the gods. This was the fatal flaw in her plan. She wanted to live long enough to sate her vengeance. But what she ended up doing instead was giving herself no way out of her emotional and mental torment. What did, however, relieve her of that, as we see later in the show, was Xena sacrificing herself to save her soul from eternal damnation in Hell. Thus, as an angel, she was reformed and could forgive Xena without question. She helped Eli bring her and Gabrielle back to life, as well as provide her with what she once took from her. A child. A human life, that to which would conceal her reincarnated soul, giving her what Xena once took from her. A mother. Such a beautiful and satisfying end to her story. If she had found a way to destroy her existence, that would have never happened for her, as it was impossible for her to not experience consciousness. No matter which reincarnated body, denomination of the afterlife or alternate reality she was in. Committing suicide would not have helped anything. It would not have given her any kind of respite whatsoever. Suicide was not the answer. Xena’s self-sacrifice was. It was down to Xena to save her, as Callisto was well passed the point of saving herself.

Xena:

Now this is where I need to be very careful because I don’t want to upset anyone who has had personal experiences with losing loved ones to suicide, or give those who might have suicidal tendencies an excuse to act on them. I’m going to try my best to express myself in a respectful way regarding Xena’s story, and whether she was suicidal or not, as some Xenites have pointed out parts of the show where it’s explicitly implied that she was because she had no regard for her own life and felt she never deserved forgiveness. We’ll start off with the pilot episode, ‘Sins Of The Past’, as this is where her story starts after changing her ways and reforming into a heroine for the ‘greater good’. Turning away from her darkness, and her desire to destroy anyone who got in her way of conquering entire nations. We see her riding Argo into smoke-filled areas, where an attack has evidently struck. Her mind occupied with images and sounds of the sins of her past. Remembering all the lives she had destroyed physically and emotionally. She comes across a boy in the wreckage of the village she was passing by and gave him some food before speeding off out of the area. I personally think this scene was a delusion, as the boy was talking about how it was Xena who killed his parents, and that she came out of the sky “throwing thunderbolts and breathing fire.” I believe the boy and the decimated village was real but the experience he was relating was not. So, therefore, I feel it was just her deluding herself with the memories of the horrible things she had done, and the consequences it had on the lives of those she victimized and destroyed.

Next we see her in a wooded surrounding taking off her armor and leathers, leaving her in only her under-shift, and burying them, covering them with soil and leaves. It is here where it is possible she was thinking of committing suicide as we also see her staring blankly, presumably deep in thought at what she was about to do. Contemplating on going through with it, I would assume. Now if we go all the way to the second to last episode, ‘A Friend In Need Part I’, we see her do the exact same thing, only this time, her last look and thoughts were of Gabrielle, walking in the opposite direction, with absolutely no inclination of what she was about to do, which was to allow the army to kill her. We watch her put up enough of a fight to take out as many men as she possibly could, until finally meeting the general face to face as he cuts off her head, in first-person view, with blood covering the camera screen, shocking us all. She was allowing him to kill her as she could have easily stopped him if she had wanted to, as Gabrielle points out later. She evidently was wanting to die. So these parallels definitely allude to her being suicidal and caring nothing for her own life. Only Gabrielle’s and the people who were about to be attacked by Yodoshi’s soldiers. I don’t blame her to be honest. The 40,000 lives she had taken all those years ago would have drove her to that conclusion. Their blood on her hands, if only figuratively, making the decision for her. So considering those scenes, as well as her confession to Gabrielle, in the Season 6 episode, ‘Legacy’, that she was the one who changed her decision to “wanting it to end”, it is very conceivable she was plagued with suicidal thoughts throughout the entire show. And given this theory is accurate, it tells you Gabrielle saved her life without even realizing it from the moment she first met her. That is an astonishing revelation, and it completely changes the tone of the whole show. The thought that Xena could have been suicidal all that time. She was only happy when she was with Gabrielle, who she referred to as her “light” and her “source”. Her reason for existing at all. Therefore, what the meaning of life was for Xena wasn’t a theme of any kind. It was a living and breathing human, who seemingly enjoyed her life and was very peaceful about it to begin with… but was she really? We’ll get on to her next…

Gabrielle:

This is a perspective that might be a little bit of a reach, and there certainly isn’t any reason to make this show seem any darker than it already is from what I’ve talked about previously, but I feel I must include this character in this topic of conversation, as she is my favourite character in the whole show. @brifigy made an enlightening post that I would like you to read:

https://girl4music.tumblr.com/post/168126126575/girl4music-brifigy-girl4music-brifigy

I think @brifigy had a valid theory, and I’d like to elaborate on it to support it. I am quite observant, so I notice things others completely overlook. There are certain traits from Gabrielle’s psyche I want to bring to light to you all, in continuation of @brifigy’s theory. Gabrielle might have been struggling with manic-depression. However, because of her incredible capacity for emotional strength, she was able to hide it from the audience and convince them that she was a happy person, as she so evidently appeared to be from the outside.

You must look very deeply into her character to pick up instances of depression and mania. It is very probable she could have been manic-depressed. Obviously, back then, there was no such term or diagnosis available for mental and emotional disorders. It’s a very relevant and logical perspective to come to, as her character is very layered and complicated. Though, it’s rather hard to pinpoint exactly where it might have been accurate. This is my attempt at pinpointing moments in the show where this perspective makes sense, with my limited knowledge on manic-depression.

The first thing I want to mention is Gabrielle’s insistence to cater to and sacrifice herself for others, both physically and emotionally. We see this side of her right from the start. In her introduction scene, she is shown sacrificing her own life for the health and freedom of her family. The very same event that saved Xena from committing suicide… was also the one where Gabrielle offered her own life to the slave-traders. In fact, throughout the whole of the season we see her constantly doing this for others. Putting herself in harm’s way. Throwing herself in front of strangers. Doing dangerous tasks to prove herself as a responsible young adult, and worthy of being Xena’s sidekick. Bravely stepping up to the plate time and time again to protect and defend others, even with her lack of fighting skill and strength, all the while showing extreme naivety and recklessness.

But what for? What was her motive? Why did she behave this way? Why was she so compassionate and selfless? Well, if you’ve ever met someone who struggles with manic-depression, you will also most likely meet a person who is the most caring, kind and optimistic person you’ve ever encountered in your life, as this person is so tormented by their inner-demons, that they would never wish the same on others, and will endeavor to be a person who will always be there for others, and offer as much help and emotional support as they possibly can. They are usually very empathetic, artistic and adventurous. Always wanting a change in routine and schedule to keep them passionate about life. Always looking for meaning in everything, as they want to be able to give to the world their help and healing. The very thing they do not have for themselves or know how to give themselves. They are also somebody that always doubts themselves, and believes they have more faults than skills, but they express it in such a way where it seems like they’re not being serious. It just comes across as a funny passing joke. Laughing at themselves and their imperfections, but deep inside really struggle with them, and believing in themselves and their capabilities. They give to others what they cannot give to themselves. Pointing out their potential and strengths to lift that person’s confidence and vibration. They talk about subjects that refer to overcoming obstacles and finding the meaning of life. But you never really notice that they’re talking about themselves because they’re just so damn good at putting it into a non-personal way.

If this does not sound like Gabrielle to you in the first season, you haven’t really been paying enough attention, because I can point out many times where Gabrielle has shown these personality and behavioural traits, and not just in the first season either. Gabrielle had an immense evolution, and a lot of what happened to her in Season 3 made her really grow up. She became stronger and wiser because of it. Initially, she appeared to be an overly enthusiastic, loving life, kind of person. But was she just putting on a show? And if she was suffering with manic-depression, (or what has come to be known as ‘bipolar disorder’ nowadays) what caused this manifestation of mental issues in the first place? Childhood trauma, perhaps? It seems like Gabrielle’s first experience of trauma is in Season 2 and Season 3. But we have no idea what was going on before that in her hometown or inside her head. We’ll never know. But what we do know is that Xena saved her, as she confesses that in the Season 4 episode, ‘The Ides Of March’, as @brifigy‘s post said. It’s as good a confirmation as any.

Thank you, @brifigy for enlightening us with this insight into Gabrielle’s character. I merely only wanted to elaborate on it and support it. I hope you don’t mind. I’m done! That was long-winded, but I hope you took something from it. It’s a hard topic to talk about, but I thought I’d express my thoughts and feelings on it, thoroughly, anyway. If you got this far, thank you so much for reading. I love my Xenite family. I hope none of you ever take your own life, or put yourself in a situation where you could die, because you don’t care about yourself. You are deserving of so much in this world, and it would not be the same without you. Do not follow Xena!

IF YOU EVER WANT TO TALK PRIVATELY… MY DM’S ARE OPEN!

#xena warrior princess #xena and gabrielle #xena #lucy lawless #gabrielle #renee o'connor #callisto #hudson leick #return of callisto #maternal instincts #legacy #sins of the past #the ides of march #suicide #self-sacrifice #manic-depression #bipolar disorder #brifigy #theory

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brinlyisasleep · 5 years

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The art of a secret relationship pt. 1

Au where Aziraphale confesses his love right after Crowley saves his books, and prompts them to have to play a game of hide your boyfriend from your scary boss!!!

Read on ao3 as well: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20074912

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"Oh the books! I've forgotten all the books" Aziraphale cried, giving his attention to the demon who had recently rescued him. "Oh, they'll all be blown to-" but stopped talking as he felt an overwhelming wave of love fly towards him.

He watched as Crowley tore the bag, which held his precious prophecies, from the dead nazi's hand. "Little demonic miracle of my own!" He said handing the bag over with a cheeky grin. "Lift home?" The demon asked.

That is when the old angel's suspicions became reality, that not only did Crowley love him, but he loved him equally in return. A grin grew on Aziraphale's face as a million and one thoughts raced through his mind.

Crowley had been absent from the angels life for almost a century now, Aziraphale always told himself that he missed the demon for purely work related reasons. Because if there was no one to thwart then surely Gabriel would come to bring Aziraphale back to Heaven. And that was the last thing the angel wanted, as his fine collection of books still had room to grow. Not to mention popsicles had only been invented twenty years ago, and that certainly was not enough time for popsicles!

And although some of those thoughts were valid, Aziraphale realized in this moment those thoughts were lies he had been telling himself. A lie to cover the fact that Aziraphale missed Crowley. Desperately, and would look for his old friend in nearly anything.

Book characters, ducks in ponds, garden snakes, anywhere he could get even a small reminder. But nothing could substitute the real thing.

"Angel?" Crowley called "Are you getting in, or do you have a death wish?" He asked. And in one determined moment Aziraphale walked over to the demon and did the most impulsive he'd ever do in his immortal life.

"Crowley, I love you" he blurted out.

And in complete and utter shock Crowley yelped "You what!?" Tearing off his hat and running his hands through his vibrant red hair he turned to the angel and asked again, this time more panicked, "You WHAT?!"

But frozen in utter fear Aziraphale said nothing, instead just babbling and attempting to speak. Crowley let out a shakey laugh "I just- just can't believe it angel! I mean-"

But Aziraphale regained his ability to talk and cut him off "I need to go" he said turning the other direction breaking into a very fast walk.

"Angel-" Crowley called "Angel!" He said once more racing towards him, "Where are you even walking to? We are in the middle of a warzone Aziraphale!"

But Aziraphale kept walking, all of his bravery dissolved. What if Heaven found out? What about Hell? What would they do to Crowley? What would they do to him? How is this even supposed to work? They are an angel and a demon for Heaven's sake!

He had found that he had stopped walking, and as he glanced around he was in a completely different place. He had accidentally miracled himself away in his panic. He looked around to see Saint James park, that last place he and Crowley had spoken before he disappeared, where he asked for the holy water. Where they had argued, Aziraphale hated when they really argued, which was different from a tease. The angel would never admit it but he quite enjoyed when the demon teased him.

He set the bag onto the ground and sat down onto the bench, placing his head into his hands. He wasn't certain how long he stayed that way, contemplating his lack of impulse skills.

He was certain that he stayed that way until he felt a familiar demonic presence sit beside him. "Angel-" Crowley started, Aziraphale looked up from his hands "no please don't call me that." He said "Because whenever you do I get this giddy feeling in my stomach and this jolt in my heart and I just- I can't handle it" he said, eyes starting to water.

"I understand" said Crowley "You hate that you love- love" he stuttered then gasped still not believing it "a demon. And you can't stand what I am so-" with a sharp gasp Aziraphale grabbed Crowley hands.

"No, I wouldn't never ever hate what you are-" the angle stated. The demon turned his head away, "Crowley look at me" the angle pleaded. "Look at me" he said, the demon began to glance up and Aziraphale cupped his face.

"I would never hate a single thing about you-" and with tears streaming down his face his bravery returned "I meant it when I said I love you"

With tears in his eyes the demon laid his hand on top of the angles, and rested his forehead against his. They stayed this way for a while, only for a nearby dropping bomb to interrupt them. "What I hate, what I really hate more than anything-" said the angel "is our situation."

Crowley started running his free hand through the Angels silky blonde hair "Me too, me too-" he whispered.

"Crowley, what do we do now?" he asked, "Well-" he sighed "what do you want to do?"

Aziraphale laughed "What I want-" he said with a dreamers tone "I want us- together-" he moved his head back, and removed the demons glasses and looked deeply into his eyes "always."

"I want that too, Angel-" he stopped himself "oh, sorry I-" Aziraphale shushed him "No I'm sorry" he said "Please, dear, promise me something" the old seperant smiled "Anything" he sighed.

"Never stop calling me angel, it means everything to me" Crowley grin grew wider "Of course, angel"

The moment was ruined by another bomb. "But Crowley-" the angel said "what about Heaven? What about Hell?"

"They don't matter" Crowley said quickly. "But, they do! If they find out-" Aziraphale panicked "They won't" he reassured the angel.

"How do you know?" He asked weakly. "Because I won't let them-" the demon definently stated "Because damnit Aziraphale, I lov-"

The angel cut him off "You don't have to say it, dear" this puzzled the old demon "Why not?" He asked weakly. "Because I already know." He laughed sweetly "I've always known, even if I'm just letting myself realize it."

"But, angel-" Crowley sighed "I want to say it!" He said loudly getting to his feet, dragging Aziraphale up with him.

Crowley jumped on top of the bench screaming "I want to tell the whole world!" He extended his hand to the angel. Aziraphale took it, standing on top of the bench with him.

Fires roared in the distance, but the moon was bright, and an angel was holding hands with a demon. "Aziraphale, I love you. I always have-" he laughed with a melancholy tone "since the walls of Eden. And-" he was definitely now pausing for the purpose of dramatic effect "I always will."

And in a perfectly timed moment, caused probably by God herself, a bomb dropped the moment Aziraphale tenderly pressed his lips into Crowleys'.

It was the perfect kiss, incomparable to any other, it was sweet and innocent yet passionate all at the same time. Their eyes lingered onto each other for a moment only for the other to rush back to each other and give a second kiss even more passionate than the first.

When they pulled apart reluctantly Crowley spoke "Now I don't know what's going to happen, angel. But, what I do know that I've wasted so much time not being with you- and I'm willing to risk it all for just a single moment more. So please, angel, a lift home?"

Aziraphale giggled "Of course, dear" he pecked a single kiss onto the demons nose, smiled and pecked one more onto his lips.

Crowley smiled and lead him to the Beantly.

And this is when the two would start to learn the art of a secret relationship.

#ineffable husbands #ineffable husbands fic #aziraphale x crowley #crowley x aziraphale fic #crowley #crowley x aziraphale #aziraphale #good omens fic #good omens #reading fanfiction #fanfiction #ao3

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plagg-clawson · 5 years

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Some thoughts on the new episode Animastreo:

The 2D movie using the original animation with Felix and Bridgette that was the original idea for Miraculous Ladybug: Hilarious! What an amazing “Easter egg”

Thomas Astruc’s little cameo is amazing, brilliant! I loved how they built up to his akuma with all the comments on how Directors don’t do anything! It was so cute though in the end when Marinette recognized him. So cute his virtual creation hugging his virtual self!

“So that is why you make a single macaroon every Sunday?” Lol Tikki! Hilarious that Marinette makes Adrien’s favorite flavor macaroon every Sunday just incase the opportunity arises for her to give it to Adrien! Reminds me of her having Adrien’s birthday presents all done up until his 50th birthday!

Marinette’s parents know she is the clumsy queen!

“Oh no, she sees him!” Sabrina really knows her daughter!

Adrien looking all spiffy

Kagami returns-I’m watching you sister! Though I do not think you have done much wrong, I root for the lovesquare

Chloe and Marinette both getting upset when they see Kagami! Priceless! I though that scene was very funny along with when they decide to kind of team up.

Though I enjoyed the Chloe and Marinette banter when they decided to team up, I did not enjoy Marinette making that decision to take the low road with Chloe. I like how they show Marinette’s flaws, but actually manipulating someone’s downfall is a whole different level, so I wish the writers didn’t add that. However, Marinette did realize she was wrong so that’s good.

I was hoping Marinette would realize she was wrong and save Kagami for sitting in the cake, but she didn’t, her mom did, and then Adrien helped her put her show back on, good for him, but wrong girl for the Cinderella moment! Oh well, Chloe and Marinette got their karma from that

I want to know if Thomas is allergic to almond in real life, just curious

So Chloe now just finds out that Marinette has a crush on Adrien, which strikes me as odd because I think everyone had already thought Chloe knew about it, at least I did. I know Chloe likes Adrien, but it seems like she likes to torture Marinette all the times she gets to talk or hang out with Adrien like someone only would if they knew the other person had a crush on them, and if they wanted to be mean of course. Why would Marinette team up with Chloe that very day to get ride of Kagami if she didn’t have a crush on him? Like what reasoning did Chloe have in her mind for that? I guess she brought up Marinette’s point about not standing by while evil happens but Kagami is just a little blunt and harsh, not really evil so I don’t think that’s a valid reason for Chloe to think Marinette was helping her.

So rude of Chloe to try and tell, but what did we expect

Loved the super villain, loved how they stopped him. The only thing is I got kind of excited because when I heard Gabriel scream out “no no!!” Running towards the scene so that he could watch Animastreo so that he would not freeze, I thought that either ladybug and chat noir would hear him and be confused and we might get some sort of hawkmoth clue in. Or, I thought that he might see him just as they closed their eyes so he did not stop and that he would get much closer to their miraculous. That didn’t happen, still good episode though.

Gabriel really doesn’t care about keeping his identity hidden huh? Just running through the streets yelling no when everyone else is keeping their eyes closed? Sounds like people would have noticed him not respecting the superheroes wishes. Also, just going into his evil monologue just walking out and about in public undisguised??? He’s desperate now.

Thought the ending wrapped up pretty nicely. Chloe didn’t give it away, though she definitely talked down to Marinette and still acted very mean throughout the episode. Marinette and Thomas talking which I already mentioned. Super cute. Marinette getting to sit next to Adrien. I thought it was good that she got to see the movie not because of what her and Chloe tried to do with Kagami, which backfired on them so they definitely got some punishment, but because of Thomas’ kindness, which I think helped her learn the lesson that things can still end up in her favor without her having to be mean and manipulate the situation.

Overall, I thought it was a pretty good episode. I did not think it was a huge episode in terms of character progress, and Chloe has definitely gone backwards in her progression, which I understand progression is not linear, but she has not really shown any improvement in this season. However, I still really enjoyed the episode with the cameo of Thomas and the Easter egg and all the little cute/funny lines here and there.

#animaestro #miraculousladybug #miraculous ladybug #marinette dupen chang #adrien agreste #adrienette #kagami #chloe bourgeois #mlb #mlb spoilers

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writingarchangels · 6 years

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Trick-or-Treat aka ‘Getting Free Candy’ (Michifer) HALLOWEEN SPECIAL

Pairing: Michael X Lucifer

Word count: 2.3K

Where Gabriel 'convinces' - read; forces - to get Michael & Lucifer to go Trick-or-Treating with him. They have to dress up as well to 'play the part' and 'for the whole experience.'

"You want me to do what?!" Lucifer nearly shrieked, openly gawking at Gabriel who had yet another ridiculous idea. Lucifer did not feel like dealing with Gabriel and his Gabrielness today.

"I want you and Michael to take me and Jack trick-or-treating," Gabriel repeater himself with a casual shrug.

"Why?!"

"Because it's Halloween and we want candy."

"Gabriel, I'm not sure if you've realized it or not, but Michael is still locked up in The Cage," Lucifer said slowly, wondering if his younger brother had officially lost it.

The younger Archangel gave him an almost sheepish look. "I broke him out actually," he said, awkwardly readjusting his wings. "Raphael once found a way to break open The Cage without the use of the key and I managed to find it as well."

"Michael is free?!" Lucifer screeched yet again, his voice sounding shrill even to his own ears.

"Getting ready in the next room actually," Gabriel replied, pointing towards a door somewhere at their left. "But that's not the point. You have to go with us as well or it won't be complete."

"Why don't you ask Sam or someone to go with you?" Lucifer asked with a face palm.

Even with his covered face, he was aware of Gabriel's pout. "Because I want you to take me," he said. Uncovering his face, he was startled to discover that Gabriel had gotten closer to him; looking at him with his hand bought together underneath his chin, eyes large and teary, and a huge pout with trembling lips. "Please, Luci? Please, please, pretty please?!" Gabriel asked him.

Eyes widening himself, the Devil took a small step backward as he held his hands up. "Okay, I'll go with you. Just please stop looking like that!"

A face-splitting grin formed on Gabriel's face. "Michael found a costume for you so go put it on," Gabriel grinned up at him.

Lucifer grew doubtful with the look he was receiving, but before he could question him about said 'costume,' Gabriel had already skipped away. A deep sigh slipping past his lips, Lucifer went over towards the door Michael was behind - according to Gabriel, if Gabriel could be trusted - and he pushed it open in one go, knowing that if he lingered, he wouldn't be able to do so.

He wasn't prepared for what he saw.

An inhuman screech tore out of his throat. He staggered back, tripped over his feet, and landed on his bum as the lights above his head combusted and windows shattered from his true voice. He could do nothing but stare at Michael in utter horror, not sure where he was supposed to look but finding himself unable to look away from the other Archangel.

Michael wore sparkling white pants. Very tight pants that nicely fit around his hips, directing Lucifer's attention to his nicely formed ass. He gulped loudly and forced his eyes to look up, scanning over a white shirt to Michael's amused expression. And then Lucifer noticed what he was holding, what his costume was supposed to be.

Unable to help himself, he screamed again.

Down the hall, he could hear Gabriel laughing at his reaction. The ass probably knew this all along, he thought.

"Will you please stop screeching like that?" Michael asked, pulling a face. "The first time we see each other after many years and you start screeching at my face in such a way that would put a banshee to shame."

"I'm not going to wear that!" Lucifer yelled, pointing an accusing finger at the 'thing' he was supposed to be wearing. "No way!"

Michael shrugged, holding the thing up so they could both get a better look. "I don't think it's that bad honestly," he commented with a tilt of his head, "it suits you."

"How?!" Was all Lucifer said as he stared at the devil horns and tail the other was holding. That, and what appeared to be a tight-fitting, sparkling dark red suit with matching pants.

"It's sparkling," Michael replied dreamily, already off in Michael-land. "We can match." And that was when Lucifer noticed the fake halo dangling above Michael's head.

He already started shaking his head, holding up his hands. "Please don't make me do this."

Michael looked up and pouted. Damn it, what's with everyone and pouting today? He wondered.

"Come on, Lu. We never celebrated Halloween before. Gabriel's right, this could be fun." Michael said and again, Lucifer got pulled in.

"Why do I have to be the demon?" Lucifer complained loudly when Michael was busy readjusting the fake devil horns on top of his head.

"Because you created them," Michael simply spoke.

He huffed and glared down at his ass, more specifically, the fake pointed tail attached to his belt, which got a complaint from Michael and the other gripping his chin, so Lucifer would look at him again. "Don't look away when I'm working on your horns," Michael huffed as Lucifer moved his glare towards the other's fake halo, annoyed by how it bounced around without a care in the world.

"Are you done?" He asked.

"As a matter of fact, Mister Impatient," Michael spoke as he stepped back, an amused grin forming on his lips, "I am."

"Great, let's get Gabriel and Jack and go."

"Gabriel!" Lucifer called out, scowling when the younger Archangel didn't immediately answer him.

"Don't get your feathers in such a twist. This will be fun," Michael commented from next to him.

Lucifer couldn't help but roll his eyes, feeling as if their roles had been switched. "Since when do you even care about 'fun?'" He asked, remembering how serious Michael used to be. He couldn't help but give him a curious sidelong glance.

Michael refuses to meet his eyes. "I had a lot of time to think in the Cage after you left."

Not knowing how to reply to that, Lucifer choose for the safe option and kept his mouth shut, not wanting to say something he would regret, and which would end up ruining whatever was between them.

The sound of patting feet came from the distance and Lucifer looked up... and saw nothing. Something ran against him and clutched on his leg, making him stubble slightly and look down to see a small child who couldn't be much older than four. The boy hung tightly to his leg much like a baby koala would. And was completely wrapped up in toilet paper, covering his clothes and even going around his head and soft light brown hair.

Lucifer stared at Michael. "Do you also see a kid or am I definitely losing it now?" He couldn't help but ask.

Michael was already staring down at the small boy with a blank expression. "Adorable," he muttered almost in awe. Lucifer decided to take that as a 'yes', Michael saw the kid too.

Rolling his eyes, Lucifer snapped his fingers in front of Michael's face to snap him out of wherever he was in Michael-land right now. The latter blinked and shook his head.

Tilting his head, he stared down at the child who was muttering something that suspiciously sounded like 'nougat' and 'dadda'. At that, Lucifer's eyes widened drastically. And he screeched, yet again, utterly horrified by what he found out. "Jack?!"

The child looked up and Lucifer was met with a single clear-blue eye. The other was covered with a black eye-patch. It was definitely Jack. "Wello!" Jack said in a small-child voice.

With his mouth agape, Lucifer reached down and picked up his son, holding him above his head, still gawking in disbelief. Jack waved his arms around as he giggled. A dying noise came from deep within Lucifer's throat. "Son, who did this to you?!" But before he had even finished his sentence, he already knew. There's only one who would dare turn his precious son into a toddler. He spoke the name as if he was speaking the world's greatest curse. "Gabriel."

Jack giggled again and clapped his hands. "Gabey!" He blabbered out, confirming Lucifer's suspicions.

Still holding Jack, he turned towards Michael, who had nearly wrung his wings together in one big sparkling blue knot. Lucifer didn't even know it was possible to do that to angel wings. Michael was cooing loudly, appearing to be dying on the spot. "Michael!"

Michael's head snapped up, but he cooed again when Lucifer pressed Jack against his chest and cradled his head. "Michael, shut up and help me find that flamboyant bitch of a Gabriel."

"Here I am!" A new voice piped up.

Lucifer spun around. And looked down again to see a younger version of Gabriel's vessel - about six years old - standing before them, giving them a toothy grin and wearing a dog suit. "It that... a corgi suit?" Lucifer wondered aloud, recognizing the tail-less breed.

Michael cooed again when he noticed a tiny version of Gabriel.

"Michael! Snap out of it!" Lucifer nearly whined. Jack wrapped his tiny hands around his neck and Lucifer's eyes widened as he cooed himself at the affection his child was showing. When he realized what he was doing, he put the scowl back on his face.

In the corner of his eye, Michael had flung himself at toddler-Gabriel and appeared to be hugging him closely while cooing all over the now-fledgling. Gabriel's eyes had widened in horror and slowly Lucifer could see him regret his decision of turning himself and Jack into kids. "Halp!" He called out, making grabby hands towards Lucifer. "I'm going to die!"

Michael took one of his own wings and rubbed it over Gabriel's head, something he always used to do with the fledglings to calm them down if Lucifer remembered correctly. Lucifer thought it was a fitting punishment, being fussed over by Michael, so he left Gabriel to him.

"Sorry, bro," he shrugged, nodding towards Jack, "my hands are full."

Gabriel decided to turn towards Michael. "Come on, Mikey. Let me go. I cannot collect candy when you're holding me like this!"

Then Lucifer realized something. "Why are the two of you even kids?"

It was Jack who answered. "More candy!" He babbled in his kid voice. Lucifer figures that was a valid enough reason, and he would never dare say it aloud, but they looked adorable like this.

"There's also something I've been wondering about," he said to Jack, leaving Gabriel to Michael, "I get that Gabriel is a dog... but what are you supposed to be?"

Jack gave him a large grin. "A piwate mummy!"

"Of course, I should have known. A pirate mummy."

"Help!" Gabriel called out again in yet another distress call.

Deciding that he had enough punishment, Lucifer stepped closer and said, "Michael, it's enough. Let's go."

Michael gave him a wide-eyed look and held a struggling Gabriel closer, still rubbing Gabriel's head with his wing. "My fledgling," he muttered.

Gabriel made some high-pitched disagreeing noises. "Oh, shut up, Gabe. You have nothing to say," Lucifer told him, "you should have known that you would turn on Michael's mother instincts looking like this."

Seeing that Michael had no intention of letting Gabriel go, Lucifer readjusted Jack in his hold and slammed Michael's butt. A shriek left Michael's lips and he let go of Gabriel, who went behind Lucifer with a flutter of his wings.

Giving Michael an innocent look, he sidestepped him, opened the door and stepped outside at least. Gabriel didn't waste a second in sprinting past his legs and running circles on the street in front of the house they were in.

"Who's house is it even?" Michael asked from next to him, recovered from having his butt slapped.

"No idea," Lucifer truthfully replied, giving him a smirk, "does it matter?"

Michael shrugged. "Not really. Let's just go."

"Why aren't you letting Jack walk on his own?"

Lucifer gave Michael an almost offended look. "Have you seen how small he is?!" He shrieked, getting a few looks from other families and groups of kids that were out trick or treating. "He might fall over and hurt himself!"

"Nwougat," Jack said from his hold, face nuzzled somewhere against his neck.

Patting his back, Lucifer said, "Yes, you will get your nougat. You even already have some bars, remember?" As it to prove his point, Lucifer held up a paper bag that was almost halfway filled with candy, including nougat bars. Noting that Michael was looking at them, he added, "What is it?"

"You're adorable with him."

Nearly choking on his own spit, Lucifer tried to formulate a decently smart reply, but his tongue caught in his throat as his voice completely failed him. If angels could blush, he figured he would be bright red by now.

"You actually love trick or treating, don't you?" Gabriel asked from in front of them, walking backward so he could look at them, a large grin on his face. "Especially since you also got some candy yourself."

Ruffling up his sparkling pink feathers, Lucifer managed to find his voice again. "Shut up, you ass," the Devil spoke. "Who doesn't loves getting free candy?" He decides to ignore Michael cooing at him, thinking that he needed to get it together - especially since the noises Michael made did things to him.

Gabriel's grin widened. "Luci is a sweet tooth," he sang.

Somehow, he managed not to roll his eyes. "Who was it again who always gave you candy whenever you got upset as a little fledgling?"

"That was you."

"Exactly my point. Everyone is a sweet tooth."

Tags: @luciferstempest @kittyhazelnutwashere @gabrielsbackbitches

(This is my new blog I will use for writing (main is tricksterarchangelgabriel), if you wish to be tagged, just ask!)

#spn one shot #spn fanfic #spnfamily #supernatural #supernatural fanfiction #michifer #lucifer x michael #michael x lucifer #spn gabriel #spn lucifer #jack kline #children #fluff #crack

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sakurai-ai · 6 years

Text

SPN13x13

You know exactly what this rant is about.

So for those of you who have watched the episode, welcome. For those who haven’t...welcome too. Because I am not about to tell you what to do.But I do advise, its going to be a screaming rant of literally the last...30 seconds of the entire episode.

Because the episode itself was very Lucifer-centric, let’s talk about the Devil himself first.

Poor little Lucifer who is losing all of his grace and is acting more and more human. I’m kinda glad they did that, but at the same time, he is still Lucifer, so its nice to see him being all ‘kill all the angels’ to steal their grace.

Poor cupid though.. because fuck you, that first moment with the girl skating -- who couldn’t skate -- and the baker with the massive wedding cake. I mean seriously...it was so cliche it was adorable.

You can’t change a person so quickly, especially someone like the devil. He still has an end game.

However, he has now seen that there are no more angels around, and I think that morally, that is troubling him. Selfish though his wishes are, he is seeing what is happening after his dear old dad had jumped ship.

Heaven is in shambles, hell is too.

And now he wants to help...in his own way. And I think, morally, or immorally, he is wanting his home back to the former glory it was. To up his HP/MP and level up overall, and to finally go back home and rule like he’s always wanted to.

Most likely its because he has seen just how powerful Earth 2 Michael is, and just wants to juice himself up to he can take down the dude. And have an army of angels at his side to take down the rest of the bad guys in Earth 2.

So all in all, nice dude. You’ve not changed, and I like that.

Next, Sister Jo, aka Anael.

For a scant moment, I was confused with Anna and Anael, I thought they were the same person, however, I was sorely mistaken.

I personally liked her character, she was a really good twist. Not all angels who see the devil are scared of him. And not all angels are GOOD. After all, Lucifer was an angel who loved too much (or whatever) and fell. It’s only right that there are others who are like him.

She will die, obviously. But its nice to see her have an end game of her own. She wants to be somebody, and she’s found the best place to be. By the side of a powerful king, worshiped by other angels. Rather than being what she was.

She’s not like normal angels, she’s a businesswoman.

So yes, she is a very interesting character, and I’m glad I like her for more than just ‘Dude it’s Daneel Ackles!’ which I was worried about.

Also, props for making it a weird, sickly odd whole...Lucifer/Anael...thing, rather than forcing the (IRL) married couple together. They did that with Sam/Ruby, and they’re doing it here too.

Very nice and affective -- however, did anyone else have a ‘ew’ shudder feeling when that whole grace sucking thing happened?

However, Dean and Anael have yet to properly meet. So that could go either way.

To me, Asmodeus is literally a character for Sam and Dean to have something to kill for this season. Though as integral to the plot as he is, he isn’t as much of a threat when you think about what is coming.

His shape shifting this is too much bad-guy trope for me to really consider him as anything but a lying, deceitful trickster (and no, do not slump that word with Asmodeus...eew). But then again...he did bring something to the table, so I’m not going to dispute his reasoning.

Donny is back, and yes, he is now in a trance...like didn’t that happen before? Urgh, Donatello, seriously man. And its good to see the Demon Tablet back again. Now that we have the book and the tablet, I see a future of them needing to destroy either or both of them for the betterment of the future.

I also see a showdown between Angel’s and Demon’s in tablet form...I mean can you imagine. It’d be like top trumps...

Good or bad, I dunno, we’ll have to see.

It was nice to see Cas back with the brothers, and though we didn’t get much of the three together, I sense there will be something there to happen. However, as this was a ‘no-homo’ episode, what with the neck slicing and the over erotic sense of taking someones grace -- which I have seen it is not supposed to be a sensuous thing. But whatever...

You’d think they’d veer away from that normality. But then again, there has to be a reason why Anael is actually letting him do it, other than for her future gain. Girl’s gotta get some current gain through he venture she’s setting out for herself.

Anyway, as it was a ‘no-homo’ episode, there was the little scant destiel-centered looks here and there, what with Dean being all ‘shit, i thought I was talking to Cas all this time, I can’t tell the different between him and a shapeshifter, what a shitty boyfriend (cough) am I?’.

Sam was spot on with his questions, he knows those two idiots need to get their heads out of their asses and actually talk. But right now is not the time, so let me ask about my mother, you know, the whole reason we did the whole ‘going to the alternate universe and losing Kaia’ etc.

Poor Winchesters, its just one thing after another for you dudes.

Now, the the piece de resistance.

Seeing an archangel blade was rather exciting, however I expected it to be a little different to a normal angel blade. They just twisted the blade and painted it gold. However...I want one.

Also, when Ketch -- who...I’m not going to mention him because I haven’t ever liked him, from the whole ‘slept with Mary’ thing. So no. -- knew the history and the lore, its interesting to know that they were not going with the whole ‘Asmodeous is now powerful enough to wield the archangel blade --yadda yadda’ and actually do the impossible.

They brought my darling, favourite character out of the entire fucking show back.

Gabriel.

My little trickster is back. And has been locked up in hell for centuries (and maybe heaven too).

I absolutely loved how they had sewed his mouth shut (ala Deadpool in Wolverine style) because that tells me he was either most definitely screaming his way out, or negotiating his way out. He was known to have a silver tongue, and he was the messenger. Most definitely his voice had power, as did his words.

So yes, though I loath to think of Gabriel in pain for so long, it is so nice to see some kind of torture and a valid REASON for him not being able to...snap his fingers, or fly off and be all ‘yes bitch, I am back!’.

Poor baby needs some candy...(maybe Sam can...pour some on himself and offer it to Gabriel...ahem...)

Metatron had him first in heaven, or maybe he’s been in hell this whole time. Who knows, hopefully we’ll find out.

BIG EXPLANATION HOW ASMODEUS IS ABLE TO SHAPE SHIFT.

You asshole, you’ve been taking Gabriel’s powers? I now hate the ever living shit out of you, and I hope you die a painful and horrible death. And I hope its by Sam! (because dude, you KNOW I’m a SABRIEL fan through and through)

So yes, though the episode itself was a little eh...the big fat cliffhanger has gripped me tight by the collars and shook me into wanting the next episode to happen NOW.

#spn spoilers #spn13 #spn13x13 #you know what #no spoilers in the tags #but if you know me #you know what this is about #spn review #me ranting #because i am excited #and so much more

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lifeofresulullah · 5 years

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The Life of The Prophet Muhammad: The Battle of Uhud and Afterwards

The Expedition of Sons of Nadr

(4th Year of the Migration, the month of Rabiulawwal / 625)

Sons of Nadr were a rich and strong Jewish tribe that descended from the lineage of Hazrat Harun (Aaron) (pbuh). They lived in strong castles two hours away from Madinah. They had signed a treaty with the Messenger of God stating that they would not take part in any activities against Muslims, that they would not help any enemies of Muslims and that they would contribute to the ransoms to be paid. However, they did not give up cooperating with the Qurayshi polytheists and Madinah munafiqs secretly. They increased their relationship with the polytheists and munafiqs especially after the Battle of Uhud.

As we have mentioned above, Amr b. Umayya had killed two people from the tribe of Amir by mistake. According to the treaty signed by Sons of Nadr Jews, they had to contribute to the ransom to be paid for those two people.

The Prophet (pbuh) went to the place of Sons of Nadr with Hazrat Abu Bakr, Umar, Ali, Zubayr b. Awwam, Talha b. Ubaydullah, Sa’d b. Muadh and Usayd b. Khudayr (may God be pleased with them) to demand a contribution to be paid as blood money and to find out how loyal they were to the treaty.

They welcomed the Prophet nicely and said that they were glad that the Prophet and his friends came to see them; they stated clearly that they would fulfill their duty.

The Prophet sat near the wall of a house with his Companions.

The Jews, who welcomed the Prophet seemingly nicely, started to whisper among them:

“Never would you get such a golden chance. If one of us drops a rock on him from the top of the house, we shall get rid of him.” Then they asked, “Who will do it?”

Amr b. Jihhash came to the front and said, “I will do it!”

Meanwhile, Sallam b. Mishkam, one of the notables said, “O my tribesmen! Obey me this time; then, oppose me after that whenever you want.”

He added, “I swear by God that if you try to do something like that, he will be informed about it by revelation. It will be very bad for us. It will be regarded as violating the treaty between us and him. Please give up that decision. If you try to do it, it will mean the end of Jews and the elevation of Islam till the Day of Judgment!”

Jews, who were famous for betraying prophets, did not give up this decision. Meanwhile, Amr b. Jihhash, who undertook the duty of dropping rocks on him, went up to the roof.

Gabriel Informs the Prophet about the Situation

Just then, Gabriel arrived and told the Prophet about the assassination attempt and the betrayal. The Messenger of God stood up and pretended as if he was going to go to the toilet and set off for Madinah. The Companions waited there for some time for him to return. When they realized that he would not come, they left the place.

A Jewish Person Warns his Tribe

Kinana b. Suriya, one of the Jews asked his tribesmen, “Do you know why Muhammad left?”

They said, “No. if you know, tell us about it.”

Kinana started to speak:

“I swear by the Torah that I know that Muhammad was informed about the assassination you planned! Do not deceive yourselves in vain. I swear by God that he is the Messenger of God and the last Prophet! He left because he was informed about the assassination you planned. You expected him to come from the descent of the Prophet Aaron. We wrote clearly in the Torah: ‘The birthplace of the last Prophet to come is Makkah; the place he will migrate to is Yathrib (Madinah)’. The properties of the last Prophet comply with that definition. There is nothing contrary to his properties in our book. There will be nobody to fight you before him. I imagine seeing you loading your possessions on camels and migrate, hearing the screams of your children and seeing you leaving your property behind and leave! Obey me in two things and know that the third is no good for you!”

The Jews asked, “What are they?”

Kinana said, “Embrace Islam and join the Companions of Muhammad! Only in this way can you secure your children and possessions, reach salvation and avoid being expelled from your land and home!”

However, the Jews said, “We shall not leave the Torah and the oath of Moses.”

The Prophet Sends a Messenger to Sons of Nadr Telling them“To Leave their Land”

The assassination attempt planned by the Jews of Sons of Nadr showed clearly that they were not friends of Islam and Muslims and that they did not remain loyal to the treaty they made with the Prophet. Therefore, the Prophet assumed a very definite attitude against them.

He called Muhammad b. Maslama and said to him,

“Go to the Jews of Sons of Nadr! Tell them, ‘the Messenger of God sent me to tell you to leave this land and not to live in the same place as him because you planned an assassination to kill him. You have ten days. If any of you is seen here after ten days, they will be killed’”

Muhammad b. Maslama went to the land of the Sons of Nadr. Before telling them about the order of the Prophet, he said,

“Tell me the truth for the sake of God, who sent the Torah to Moses: Before Muhammad was sent as a prophet and when the Torah was in front of you, I came to you and you offered me to embrace Judaism; I said to you, ‘I will never embrace Judaism’. You said to me, “What prevents you from embracing our religion? There is no religion other than Judaism. It is the same religion as the religion of Hanif that you are seeking and you have heard. The Prophet that will come to you has a shariah and he is a warrior. There is a slight red mark in his eye. He will come from the direction of Yemen; he will ride a camel, wear an ihram (cloak), find it sufficient to have a bone with little meat, have his sword hanging on from his neck and speak wisely.’ Did you not say so?”

Sons of Nadr Jews said, “Yes, we said so but he is not the Prophet that we told you about!”

Then, Muhammad b. Maslama told them about the order of the Prophet.

Sons of Nadr realized that the assassination attempt cost them dearly but it was too late now. They had nothing else to do but act in accordance with the Prophet’s order. They said to Muhammad b. Maslama, “We will migrate” and started to make preparations.

The Message Sent by the Leader of Munafiqs

Meanwhile, they received a message from Abdullah b. Ubay. The message was as follows:

“Do not leave your property by migrating from your land! Stay in your castle. I will send two thousand people from my tribe and other Arab tribes to help you. They will fight together with you until they die. Besides, the Jews of Sons of Qurayza will help you!”

Sons of Nadr Jews Challenge Arrogantly

Upon the message sent by Abdullah b. Ubay, the leader of munafiqs, Sons of Nadr gave up migrating. They sent a message to the Prophet: “We shall not leave our land. Do whatever you can!”

It was a clear and arrogant challenge.

When the Prophet received their message, he called out, “Allahu Akbar!” The Muslims called out together with him.

Sallam b. Mishkam Warns Huyay b. Ahtab

One of the most effective people who led Sons of Nadr Jews to such a dangerous adventure was Huyay b. Ahtab. He said the following to console his tribe:

“We will stock many goods and take shelter in our castle. We will guard the big gates and streets. We will carry stones to our castle. We have enough food that will last for a year. We have enough water, too!”

Another prominent figure of Jews was Sallam b. Mishkam. He opposed the idea. He said, “O Huyay! Your soul deceives you through useless things and makes you feel conceited. Stop it. We all know that Muhammad is the Messenger of God. His attributes are written in our books. We do not obey him because we are jealous of him and because we expected the last Prophet to appear among the sons of Aaron. Let us accept the pardon given to us and leave our land. If Muhammad walks against us, he will besiege us in one day in this castle”

Huyay, who was a conceited person, would not give up his thought. He said to Sallam, “Muhammad cannot besiege us! He will not be able to beat us; he will return. Abdullah b. Ubay promised me many things.”

Sallam knew that what they were going to do was dangerous; he repeated his warning: “What Abdullah b. Ubay says is not valid. He wants to drag you to the precipice of destruction and to make us fight Muhammad. After making us fight, he will return home and sit!”

Huyay b. Ahtab did not heed his warning; he insisted on his conceit, which would make him repent.

Sons of Nadr are Besieged

It was the 4th year of the Migration, the month of Rabi’ul‐Awwal.

The Messenger of God appointed Abdullah b. Umm Maktum as his deputy in Madinah and set off to the land of Sons of Nadr. Hazrat Ali was carrying the standard.

The Messenger of God performed the afternoon prayer among the vineyards and gardens of Sons of Nadr. He besieged them. Sons of Nadr took refuge in their strong castles.

The Prophet repeated his order again: “Leave Madinah!”

The sons of Nadr did not accept this offer. They said, “Death is easier for us than what you offer. We will risk death but will not accept your offer!”, challenging the Prophet.

There was nothing left to do but to fight them. However, they had taken refuge in their strong castles and they did not face leaving their castles and fighting; so the fight would be very difficult. Therefore, the Messenger of God did not find it appropriate to fight; he applied a war plan by the permission of God. He ordered his soldiers to demolish the nearest Jewish houses and castles and to burn and cut the palm trees. He aimed to force the Jews to leave the castle and fight against them.

When the Jews saw that their houses were being demolished, they shouted, “O Muhammad! You used to forbid mischief; why do you get palm trees cut off and burned?”

Those who spent all of their lives with mischief started to say that cutting of trees was mischief. Their shouting caused some Muslims to hesitate. Thereupon, the verse that was sent down clarified the issue: “Whether ye cut down (o ye Muslims!) The tender palm-trees, or ye left them standing on their roots, it was by leave of God, and in order that He might cover with shame the rebellious transgressors.”

When the verse was sent down, the hesitations and worries of the Muslims were eliminated.

Acting upon this event and the verse, the scholars stated that all kinds of green trees could be cut down as a necessity of the war.

Munafiqs Send a Message to Jews: “Resist!”

The besiege was going on.

Meanwhile, the munafiqs and especially Abdullah b. Ubay, their leader, sent a message to Sons of Nadr Jews: “if you resist Muslims and fight against them, we will not surrender you to them. If you are expelled from your land, we will go out with you.”

Sons of Nadr Jews believed the words of munafiqs and resisted for a while.

The Explanation of the Quran

Those acts of the munafiqs, who always caused mischief, were described as follows in the Quran:

“Hast thou not observed the Hypocrites say to their misbelieving brethren among the People of the Book?― "If ye are expelled, We too will go out with you and we will never hearken to anyone in your affair; and if ye are attacked (in a fight), we will help you." But God is a witness that they are indeed liars.

If they are expelled never will they go out with them; and if they are attacked (in a fight), they will never help them; and if they do help them, they will turn their backs; so they will receive no help.”

They Deem it Obligatory to Surrender and Ask for Pardon

It was the 15th day of the siege.

When Sons of Nadr Jews saw that the help promised by Abdullah b. Ubay and others did not come, they decided to surrender and ask for pardon.

The Prophet pardoned them and did not punish any of them. He let them go by allowing them to load as much of their possessions as they could, except their arms, on their camels and then leave.

Acting upon the permission of the Prophet, they loaded their goods on six hundred camels as much as they could. They demolished their own houses that were sound so that Muslims would not live there. Their women put on their best clothes and their jewels to show that they did not feel depressed due to this event. They left Madinah by playing their tambourines and blowing their whistles. Some of them went to the direction of Damascus, some to Khaybar and some to Yemen.

The Possessions They Left

When Sons of Nadr Jews left Madinah, they left behind many date groves, crops, property, sheep, cattle, and horses and other animals. They also left fifty armors, three hundred and forty swords.

All of those things belonged to the Prophet as the head of the state because they had been obtained without fighting, without riding horses or camels. They are called “fay”. Fay is the property that was obtained from the enemy through banishment or imposing a tax without fighting and that God allocated to the Prophet. The Prophet was free to use that property as he wished.

This issue is stated in the Quran as follows:

“What God has bestowed on His Messenger (and taken away) from them― for this ye made no expedition with either cavalry or camelry: but God gives power to His messengers over any He pleases: and God has power over all things..”

The Ansar, who were the natives of Madinah, had undertaken the sustenance of the muhajirs; they had shared their possessions with them. Therefore, the sustenance of the muhajirs was regarded as a burden on them.

The Messenger of God wanted to divide the fay among the muhajirs in order to relieve the burden of the Ansar. Therefore, he called them and said to them, “I can divide the goods of Sons of Nadr Jews that God gave me among you and the muhajirs if you want. In this case, the muhajirs will go on living in your houses and sharing your things. Or, I can divide those goods among the muhajirs only; in that case, they will leave your houses and you will not have to share your things with them.”

The Muslims of Madinah heartily said, “O Messenger of God! Divide the goods of Sons of Nadr among the muhajirs but let them live with us in our houses. You can also give from our goods to them as much as you want!”

Hazrat Abu Bakr stood up. After thanking his Ansar brothers, he said, “May God reward you. I swear by God that there are no people like you and us in the world.”

The Prophet prayed for the Ansar as follows: “O God! Protect the Ansar and their children; show mercy on them!”

Due to that noble and chivalrous act of Madinah Muslims, the following verse was sent down:

“And those who before them, had homes (in Medina) and had adopted the Faith― show their affection to such as came to them for refuge, and entertain no desire in their hearts for things given to the (latter), but give them preference over themselves even though poverty was their (own lot). And those saved from the covetousness of their own souls, they are the ones that achieve prosperity.”

The Ansar, who were the natives of Madinah, attained the consent of both the Messenger of God and God Almighty due to their behavior.

Thereupon, the Prophet divided the goods of Sons of Nadr among the mujahids only as God Almighty advised in the verse. Thus, he enabled them to stand on their own feet without needing the help of the Ansar.

Apart from the muhajirs, the Prophet also gave some goods to Abu Dujana and Suhayl b. Hunayf from the Ansar because they were very poor.

THE EXPEDITION OF DHAT AR-RIQA

(4th Year of the Migration, the month of Jumadalawwal / 625)

It was two months after the expulsion of Sons of Nadr Jews from Madinah.

It was heard in Madinah that the tribes of Anmar and Sons of Salaba gathered in order to fight Muslims.

The Prophet immediately made preparations and left Madinah with four hundred (or seven hundred) mujahids. He proceeded to the place called Dhat ar-Riqa and set up the headquarters there.

The polytheists could not face fighting the mujahids; so, they went up to the mountain. There was only a woman left; she was held captive.

The Messenger of God waited there for a while. When the time for noon prayer started, they performed the noon prayer in the form of salat al-khawf (prayer of fear). How to perform salat al-khawf is described in verses 101-102 of the chapter of an-Nisa.

The fact that the Messenger of God performed prayers in the congregation even in the most dangerous moments shows us how important it is to perform prayers in congregation and that it must not be ignored.

A Miracle

It was during the expedition of Dhat ar-Riqa.

Ulba b. Zayd, a Companion, found three ostrich eggs and brought them to the Prophet.

The Messenger of God said, “O Jabir; cook them.”

Hazrat Jabir cooked the eggs in a bowl and brought them.

The Prophet and the mujahids ate from that bowl until they were full but they saw that the eggs remained the same in the bowl.

The mercy of God upon Believers

It was during the same expedition.

One of the Companions found a young bird. The bird’s mother or father darted into the hands of the Companion who was holding the young bird as if it was sacrificing itself. The Companions were amazed by the acts of the bird. The Messenger of God said to them:

“Are you amazed and surprised by the act of the bird to save its young? By God, the mercy and compassion of your Lord toward you is more than the mercy and compassion of this bird toward its young!”

The Complaint of the Camel

The Prophet had left Dhat ar-Riqa together with the mujahids and was heading toward Madinah. When they arrived at a place called Harra, they saw that a camel ran toward the Prophet and sat before him with respect; it moved its neck forward and talked to the Prophet.

While the mujahids were looking at them in astonishment, the Prophet said, “Do you know what this camel says? He is complaining about the oppression of its owner. It says its owner made it work for many years and now he wants to slaughter it.” Then, the Prophet told Jabir b. Abdullah to bring the owner of the camel.

When Jabir said, “O Messenger of God! I do not know the owner of the camel”, the Messenger of God said,

“The camel will take you to its owner!”

Indeed, the Prophet took Jabir to its owner as if it was ordered by the Prophet.

Hazrat Jabir said,

“I took the owner of the camel to the Prophet. The Messenger of God talked to him about the camel and said, ‘Is what the camel said true?’ The owner of the camel said, ‘Yes, o Messenger of God!...’.”

The Name of the Expedition

It is stated in the resources that all of the people that took part in this expedition were infantry, that their bare feet were torn by stones and thorns, that their nails fell off and that they wrapped their feet with pieces of cloth; therefore it was given the name Dhat ar-Riqa. Riqa is the plural of “ruqa”, which means a piece of cloth sewn on a garment to cover the torn part; that is, patch.

Abu Musa al-Ash’ari says the following regarding the issue:

“We went on an expedition with the Messenger of God (pbuh). We had only one camel. We rode the camel in turns. Our feet had been pierced. Both of my feet had been pierced and my nails had fallen off. Therefore, we wrapped our feet with pieces of cloth. That expedition was called Dhat ar-Riqa since we wrapped our feet with pieces of cloth.

God’s Messenger’s Miracle of Abundance

Abdullah b. Amr b. Haram, the father of Hazrat Jabir, from the Ansar, had been martyred in Uhud. He had six daughters and a lot of debt.

His creditors were Jews.

Abdullah b. Amr had two orchards with various palm trees with dates; however, their crops were not enough to pay his debt. He owed forty loads of camels of dates to only one Jew.

When the season of dates started, the Jews started to ask for their money and urge him. Hazrat Jabir offered to give them the whole yield of his dates but they did not accept it.

Thereupon, Jabir went to the presence of the Messenger of God and said, “O Messenger of God! You know that my father was martyred on the day of Uhud. He had a lot of debt. I offered to give the whole yield of my dates to his creditors but they did not accept it.” He asked the Messenger of God to help him.

The Messenger of God talked to the creditors of Abdullah b. Amr b. Haram and offered them to give the whole yield of his date groves in return for his debt by they did not accept it. The creditors did not accept the following offer the Messenger of God, either: “Accept some of the debt this year and the rest next year.”

Thereupon, the Prophet said to Jabir, “Go now; I will come to you tomorrow before noon.”

The next day, the Prophet went to the date grove of Jabir together with Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Umar. He said to Jabir, “Go and collect your dates. Gather the good ones in one group and the rest in another group. Then, inform me about it!”

Hazrat Jabir fulfilled the order and went to the Messenger of God to inform him. Hazrat Jabir summoned his creditors, too. When they saw the Prophet, they repeated their demands.

The Messenger of God walked around the biggest dates pile three times and prayed; then, he said to Jabir, “Bring your creditors next to me.”

The creditors came. They were given dates from the dates piles in return for their credits. All of the debt was paid.

Hazrat Jabir narrated what he had seen as follows:

“I had only wished God to pay my debt; I would be pleased to go to my sisters with only a single date after my debt was paid. However, the Messenger of God gave lots of dates to my creditors but not even one date decreased!”[26]

The Jewish creditors were astonished by what they had seen.

It was an obvious miracle of the Messenger of God!

THE EXPEDITION OF BADR AL-MAW’ID

(4th Year of the Migration, the month of Shaban / 625)

As it had been mentioned before, While Abu Sufyan was returning from Uhud, he said to Muslims, “Let us meet you in Badr next year.” Hazrat Umar had said, acting upon the order of the Messenger of God, “All right! I hope it will be the place of fighting between you and us.”

One year had passed after the Battle of Uhud.

The Messenger of God started to make preparations in order to keep his promise.

On the other hand, Abu Sufyan, the leader of the Qurayshis, was continuing his preparations for the war. However, there was a big drought and famine in Makkah that year. Therefore, Abu Sufyan did not intend to fight that year though he encouraged people to do so.

The Tactic Employed by Abu Sufyan

Abu Sufyan, who wanted to give up the decision of going to Badr, wanted to prevent the Prophet and Muslims from going there; he was looking for ways of doing it.

He met Nuaym b. Mas’ud, who had not been a Muslim yet, in Makkah. Nuaym had come to Makkah for umrah.

Abu Sufyan said, “O Nuaym! I had promised Muhammad and his friend to fight in Badr. Now, the time for the fight has arrived. However, there is drought and famine in Makkah now. It is not appropriate for us to fight now. Therefore, we do not want to fight Muhammad this year. If we confront him, it will increase his courage.” Thus, he expressed his intention and worry; and he made Nuaym the following offer:

“Return to Madinah at once! Tell them that I have gathered a force that cannot be resisted; dissuade them from fighting against us in Badr! If you do it, we will give you seventy grown-up camels.”

Nuaym returned to Madinah at once. He started intense propaganda in favor of the polytheists in order to obtain the prize. He kept on saying that the Qurayshis had gathered an army that cannot be resisted. When the munafiqs also supported him, the Muslims started to lax. Jews and munafiqs were delighted by the situation. They showed their joy insolently by saying, “Muhammad cannot make anybody fight against the polytheists!”

The Final Decision of the Prophet

Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Umar informed the Prophet about the situation at once.

The decision of the Messenger of God was definite. He said, “I swear by God in whose powerful hand is my existence that I will go to Badr alone if nobody from Madinah comes with me!”

Those resolute and courageous words struck like lightning in the heart of the Muslims and eliminated the fear and hesitation in their hearts by the permission of God at once.

The Messenger of God appointed Abdullah b. Rawaha as his deputy and left Madinah with one thousand and five hundred mujahids. Hazrat Ali was the standard-bearer. There were only ten cavalrymen in the army.

Mujahids also had their merchandise with them because there was a fair in the place where they were heading toward every year. The expedition coincided with the fair. If the enemy came, they would fight. If they did not come, they would do business.

The Prophet arrived in Badr with his army and started to wait. However, the enemy forces did not appear.

The army of the polytheists commanded by Abu Sufyan had two thousand soldiers; they made preparations and left Makkah but they were able to reach a place called Majinnah only. They did not have the courage to move one step further; although they outnumbered the Muslim army, they could not dare to fight Muslims. Consequently, they returned to Makkah.

The Messenger of God stayed in Badr for eight nights.

The Arab tribes that came to visit the fair saw that the Muslims maintained their power and that they did not lose their courage and hope. The Qurayshis lost their prestige in the eye of other Arab tribes.

When the mujahids saw that the enemy would not appear, they bought and sold things, making a lot of profit.

After staying there for eight nights, the Prophet returned to Madinah with the mujahids happily and joyfully.

This expedition was also called the Minor Badr.

6 notes · View notes