How did Ali help Muhammad escape the assassination plot in Mecca?

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Medina, Saudi Arabia: Prophet's Mosque — Muhammad The Prophet's Mosque, showing the green dome built above the tomb of Muhammad, Medina, Saudi Arabia.

In 622, when Muhammad learned that his enemies were plotting to assassinate him, he asked Ali to take his place and sleep in his bed. This act of courage allowed the Prophet to leave Mecca secretly with Abu Bakr and travel safely to Medina.1

When the plotters arrived at Muhammad’s house with drawn daggers, they were surprised to find Ali in the bed instead of the Prophet. The plotters did not harm Ali, who remained there until he received further instructions. He later departed with Muhammad’s family and eventually arrived safely in the outskirts of Medina.1