Saladin

Sultan, recaptured Jerusalem

Medieval influential 51 sayings

Sayings by Saladin

The enemy is like a snake; if you cut off its head, the body will die.

c. 1180s — A strategic metaphor for targeting enemy leaders.
Controversial Unverifiable

My life is dedicated to the service of Islam.

c. 1170s — A declaration of his religious commitment.
Controversial Unverifiable

Do not underestimate the power of prayer, for it is our strongest weapon.

c. 1180s — Emphasizing the spiritual aspect of his campaigns.
Controversial Unverifiable

I have no desire for worldly possessions, only for the pleasure of God.

c. 1180s — Expressing his ascetic and pious nature.
Controversial Unverifiable

The Franks are weakened by their divisions; we must exploit this.

c. 1180s — A strategic observation on the internal conflicts among the Crusaders.
Controversial Unverifiable

Let us fight with courage and conviction, for victory is from God.

c. 1180s — A rallying cry to his troops before battle.
Controversial Unverifiable

The infidels have defiled our holy places; we must purify them with their blood.

c. 1180s — A harsh and religiously charged statement motivating his forces.
Controversial Unverifiable

I will not allow the Cross to remain above the Dome of the Rock for another day.

c. 1187 — Expressing his immediate goal regarding Jerusalem's holy sites.
Controversial Unverifiable

My sword is for justice, and my shield is for the oppressed.

c. 1180s — A statement of his self-perceived role as a protector of Muslims.
Controversial Unverifiable

We shall meet them on the field of battle and show them the might of Islam.

c. 1180s — A defiant challenge to the Crusader forces.
Controversial Unverifiable

Let no Frankish stronghold stand in our path.

c. 1180s — Indicating his strategic objective to dismantle Crusader fortifications.
Controversial Unverifiable