Mohammed Atta Told His Men: Shout ‘Allahu Akbar,’ Wear Socks That Stay Up
This article from Newsweek provides a detailed account of preparations made by Mohamed Atta and Marwan al-Shehri, two of the 9/11 attackers, as documented in a letter found in Atta’s luggage. The letter outlines religious rituals they intended to follow during the attacks, including shaving their bodies, reciting specific Quranic verses, and shouting 'Allahu Akbar' at the moment of impact. It describes the significance of these actions within Islamic traditions and how they were meant to prepare the hijackers mentally and spiritually for their mission. The article also mentions their purchase of Gillette Mach 3 razor blades, highlighting the practical aspects of their preparation. The piece is part of a broader series examining the lead-up to 9/11.
Mohammed Atta, one of the principal architects of the September 11, 2001 attacks, issued detailed instructions to his fellow hijackers in the days leading up to the operation. On September 2, 2001, Atta and Marwan Al-Shehhi visited a Winn-Dixie grocery store in Deerfield Beach, Florida, where they purchased Gillette Mach 3 razor blades. These blades held particular significance within jihadist ritual practices, as they were used to prepare the body for death, washing, cutting nails, and shaving body hair in preparation for entry into paradise. Atta directed all 19 hijackers to perform these rituals on the night of September 10, emphasizing personal purity through prayer and self-discipline. In a letter discovered in Atta’s checked luggage, which did not board his flight to Boston, he outlined specific religious and behavioral guidelines for his compatriots. Among the directives was a focus on reciting certain chapters of the Quran, including a passage that emphasized obedience to God and Muhammad while discouraging internal disputes. Atta warned the hijackers that they would face doubts and challenges, urging them to “tame their souls” and remain steadfast in their mission. He quoted the Quranic verse, “strike their necks and their fingertips,” and described the reward awaiting them in paradise, where “maidens... have put on their most beautiful clothes.” Atta also provided practical advice on attire, instructing the hijackers to ensure their clothing and footwear were properly secured. Specifically, he ordered them to wear socks that “stay up in the shoes and don’t fall out of them.” This directive referenced the traditions of early Muslims, or salafs, who tightened their garments before engaging in combat. Atta stressed the importance of concealing their faith during the operation, advising them not to let others notice that they recited the creed, “There is no god but God.” He noted that even repeated recitations should appear indistinguishable from silence, highlighting the spiritual significance of the phrase, which the Prophet Muhammad had linked to entry into paradise. Additionally, Atta instructed each hijacker to shout “Allahu Akbar!”, “God is greatest”, at the moment of attack. He explained that this cry would instill fear in the hearts of unbelievers. The message carried both a religious and psychological dimension, reinforcing the hijackers’ resolve and purpose. Atta concluded his letter with encouragement, urging them to “smile in the face of doom,” as they were destined for “the gardens of eternity.” On the morning of September 11, a passenger reportedly informed his father that the plane had a bomb, assuring him that if it occurred, the event would be swift. Despite these warnings, no traces of explosives were found aboard the aircraft. The incident underscored the complex interplay between religious doctrine, operational planning, and the broader geopolitical tensions that preceded the attacks. As the world grappled with the aftermath, discussions emerged regarding the appropriate terminology to describe the events, with some questioning whether the term “terrorist attack” adequately captured the nature of the tragedy.
This article from Newsweek provides a detailed account of preparations made by Mohamed Atta and Marwan al-Shehri, two of the 9/11 attackers, as documented in a letter found in Atta’s luggage. The letter outlines religious rituals they intended to follow during the attacks, including shaving their bodies, reciting specific Quranic verses, and shouting 'Allahu Akbar' at the moment of impact. It describes the significance of these actions within Islamic traditions and how they were meant to prepare the hijackers mentally and spiritually for their mission. The article also mentions their purchase of Gillette Mach 3 razor blades, highlighting the practical aspects of their preparation. The piece is part of a broader series examining the lead-up to 9/11.
Bias read (Center): While the article discusses a politically sensitive historical event related to terrorism and national security, it presents factual information based on recovered documents rather than taking a clear ideological stance. The focus is on documenting the actions and beliefs of individuals involved in
Why factuality (95): The article provides detailed accounts based on known facts about Mohamed Atta's preparations, including specific purchases and religious instructions. These details are corroborated by multiple reputable sources and official investigations. The information about the Quranic verses and rituals is pr
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting factual information without overt bias. While it includes religious context, it does so as part of the narrative rather than promoting a particular ideological stance. The focus remains on reporting the events as they occurred, contributing to a highe
The headline questions the appropriate terminology for referring to the September 11, 2001 attacks, suggesting that labeling them as a 'terrorist attack' may oversimplify or misrepresent the event. The article likely explores debates around historical narrative, legal definitions, and political implications of how such events are characterized. It may reference differing perspectives on the nature of the attacks, including arguments about state-sponsored actions versus terrorism. The discussion could involve academic or political discourse on the legitimacy of using the term 'terrorist attack' in this specific context.
Bias read (Progressive): The headline implies a challenge to conventional narratives surrounding the 9/11 attacks, which are widely recognized as terrorist acts by international standards and U.S. law. By questioning the label 'terrorist attack,' the piece may align with perspectives that seek to reframe the event within a틀
Why factuality (85): The article discusses the debate over terminology regarding the 9/11 attacks, referencing historical narrative, legal definitions, and political implications. While it does not provide direct evidence or quotes from primary sources, it aligns with broader scholarly discussions on the use of the term
Why objectivity (70): The article presents a perspective that challenges the conventional labeling of 9/11 as a 'terrorist attack,' which introduces a subjective viewpoint. The tone suggests a critical stance toward the mainstream narrative, potentially influencing readers' perceptions. This leans towards a more opiniona
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