Pearls of Wisdom: Imam Ali’s Timeless Moral Teachings

IQNA – Imam Ali (AS), renowned for his wisdom and leadership, left behind a treasure trove of moral teachings that continue to inspire and guide humanity.

As the Muslim world celebrates his birth anniversary, Iranian seminary scholar Hojat-ol-Islam Mohammad Jafar Saeidianfar reflects on a few of these timeless lessons. 

1. The value of peaceful coexistence

Imam Ali (AS) said: 

> “Peacefulness conceals flaws.” 

(Nahj al-Balagha, commentary by Ayatollah Montazeri, vol. 15, p. 58, Wisdom 6) 

2. Consult before deciding, think before acting

Imam Ali (AS) said: 

“Consult before making decisions, and think before taking action.” 

(Sharh Ghurar al-Hikam, vol. 4, Hadith 5754, p. 179) 

3. Self-absorption and listening

Imam Ali (AS) said: 

“The one who loves their own speech more than listening to yours cannot understand you. The one whose desires overpower their reason will not heed your advice. And the one who believes they know better than you will not accept your counsel.”

(Sharh Nahj al-Balagha, by Ibn Abi al-Hadid, vol. 20, p. 337) 

4. Fairness in praise and criticism

Imam Ali (AS) said: 

“Rarely does the tongue speak fairly when spreading criticism or praise.” 

(Al-Kafi, vol. 15, p. 72) 

 5. Gratitude and respect

Imam Ali (AS) said: 

“The worst of people is one who shows no gratitude for blessings and no respect for others.” 

(Sharh Ghurar al-Hikam, vol. 4, p. 170) 

6. Accepting apologies

Imam Ali (AS) said: 

“The worst of people is one who does not accept apologies and does not forgive mistakes.” 

(Sharh Ghurar al-Hikam, vol. 4, p. 165) 

7. On security and prosperity

Imam Ali (AS) said: 

“The worst city is one without security or abundance.” 

(Sharh Ghurar al-Hikam, vol. 4, p. 165) 

8. Just governance

Imam Ali (AS) said: 

“The worst ruler is one whom the innocent fear.” 

(Sharh Ghurar al-Hikam, vol. 4, p. 166) 

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