Chapter 62: Companions of the Prophet
Narrated Salama: 'Ali happened to stay behind the Prophet (ﷺ) and (did not join him) during the battle of Khaibar for he
was having eye trouble. Then he said, "How could I remain behind Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ)?" So 'Ali set out
following the Prophet (ﷺ), When it was the eve of the day in the morning of which Allah helped (the
Muslims) to conquer it, Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ) said, "I will give the flag (to a man), or tomorrow a man
whom Allah and His Apostle love will take the flag," or said, "A man who loves Allah and His
Apostle; and Allah will grant victory under his leadership." Suddenly came 'Ali whom we did not
expect. The people said, "This is 'Ali." Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ) gave him the flag and Allah granted victory
under his leadership.
Sahih al-Bukhari 3702