Tajdeed

The Politics and justice system of Imam Ali b. Abi Talib (a.s.)

Well-meaning friends, with sincere goodwill, advised Ali (a.s.) to adopt a greater flexibility in his policies for the sake of higher interests.

Their advice was: “Extricate yourself from the ruses of these demagogues, as is said, “sewing the dog’s mouth with a big morsel.”These are influential persons. Some of them are from among the elite sahaba of the dawn of

Islam.

Presently, your real enemy is Mu`awiyah who is in control of a rich and fertile province, Syria. The wisdom lies in setting aside, for the

time being, the matter of equality and justice. What harm is there in it?

Ali (a.s.) replied to them saying, “Do you really ask me to seek

support through injustice [to my subjects and to sacrifice justice for the sake of political gain]?! By Allah! I will not do it as long as the world lasts and one star follows another in the sky [i.e. I will not do it as long as the order of the universe exists]. Even if it were my own property, I would distribute it with justice. And why not, since it is the property of Allah and I am His trustee?”(Khutba 126).

Peak of Eloquence

Nahjul-Balagha

By Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib With Commentary By Murtada Mutahhari

Edited by Yasin T. Al-Jibouri – P.71-72

The justice system of the Messenger of God (sawa) and Imam Ali (a.s) are very unique and special systems we are obligated to follow.

Just observe how adamant and how careful the Prophets and Imams are when it comes to matters of rights.

The upholding of justice is above all and everyone. No one is above justice and this way is the priority and essence of Islam. Therefore, it is necessary for the Believers to be role-models and examples to the rest of mankind when it comes to justice and oppression.

Saying the truth, doing what is right is above and more beloved than benefits and profits.

• Abul Hasan