He introduced into the Greek translation which he was commissioned to make, ambiguous phrases which were read by the Christians as a call to take up arms in the cause of liberty.

In an instant, all Hellas was up in arms.

The Mohammedans were alarmed, but the Greeks gave out that it was in order to protect themselves and their property against the bands of brigands which had appeared on all sides.

This was the beginning of the Greek insurrection, and occurred in May 1820, extending from Mount Pindus to Thermopylae.
However, the Greeks, satisfied with having vindicated their right to bear arms in their own defence, continued to pay their taxes, and abstained from all hostility.
At the news of this great movement, Ali's friends advised him to turn it to his own advantage.

"The Greeks in arms," said they, "want a chief: offer yourself as their leader.