Fath al-Rabbani

It is narrated from Sayyiduna Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) gathered the Banu Abdul Muttalib or invited them. Among them were such individuals that, due to their great appetite, they could eat a whole animal and drink a whole *farq* of water. But the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) prepared only one *mudd* of food for them. They ate until they were full, but the food remained as it was, as if no one had touched it. Then the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) called for a small bowl, and everyone drank so much that they were satiated, but the drink remained as if it had not been touched. Then the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said: "O Banu Abdul Muttalib! I have been sent to you specifically and to people generally, and you have seen this sign as well. Now, who among you will pledge allegiance to me to become my brother and companion?" In response, no one stood up except me (Ali), even though I was the youngest among the people. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said: "Sit down." The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) presented this invitation three times, but only I would stand up, and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) would say, "You sit down." The third time, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) placed his hand on my hand and took the pledge of allegiance from me.