Occasion of Revelation (Hasan — Abu Dawud & Bazzar):
Two Ansar men from Aws and Khazraj quarreled; their respective tribes took sides, raising palm fronds and sandals against each other. The Prophet came and reconciled them. Then was revealed:
"And if two factions among the believers should fight one another, make peace between them." Immediately after:
"Believers are brothers, so make peace between your brothers." (49:10)
Significance:
- Brotherhood in faith is stronger than tribal or blood ties
- Reconciling between quarreling Muslims is obligatory on every capable Muslim
- Even minor conflict with palm fronds is called "fighting" — to show the severity of any discord between believers
- Justice with both sides: "if one transgresses against the other, fight the transgressing one"
Question: Why does the Quran call the Ansari quarrel with palm fronds "fighting" (iqtitaal)?
Answer: To highlight the gravity of any form of discord between believers — even the mildest — and to prompt immediate reconciliation.