Lebanese priest Bassem al-Rai: Imam Ali (peace be upon him) demonstrated asceticism, compassion in Nahj al-Balagha with a vision beyond his time
Lebanese priest Bassem al-Rai: Imam Ali (peace be upon him) demonstrated asceticism, compassion in Nahj al-Balagha with a vision beyond his time
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Professor Bassem al-Rai, a Lebanese priest and professor of political philosophy, stated in a media interview that Imam Ali (peace be upon him) viewed his society with a perspective that went beyond the intellectual, social, and political limitations of his era, Shia Waves reported.
He added, “Nahj al-Balagha reflects the breadth of Imam Ali’s vision, his commitment to justice, and his ascetic orientation, and its teachings are inspiring for all human beings.”
Al-Rai pointed to the asceticism of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) in his approach to power and governance, saying, “This asceticism signifies a conscious form of detachment and a refusal to become attached to power and violence.”
He further emphasized that the compassion and mercy of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) toward the underprivileged have made him a figure worthy of respect beyond religious and cultural boundaries, adding that the human values expressed in Nahj al-Balagha are shared by all people and can be drawn upon universally.
