Imam Ali, the conscience of the nation - Hassan Al-Saffar

Imam Ali, the conscience of the nation Classification: Historical books / Personalities Author: Hassan Mousa Al-Saffar Page 8 The conscience has a fundamental role in guiding a person's movement towards good and away from the pitfalls of evil. It is what reveals and distinguishes for the individual the path of good from the path of evil. It motivates him towards good and warns him against approaching evil. Just as the conscience plays a role in human life in terms of discernment, motivation, warning, and correction, so does the role of the reform leader in his nation and community. He guides them on the path of goodness and guidance, encourages them to pursue it, warns them of the ways of evil and misguidance, and warns them of the consequences of walking in those ways. If society slips onto the wrong path due to weak awareness, or wavering willpower, or the kidnapping of malicious forces controlling its decisions, the sincere leader does not retreat into himself nor seek revenge on his nation. Instead, he exerts his utmost effort to guide its course and bring it back to the path of guidance and correctness. He strives to save what can be saved and to reform what can be reformed, compassionate towards people, distressed by their suffering, and bearing the pains and hardships of society’s betrayal within his heart. In our Islamic history, Imam Ali — peace be upon him — was the most truthful and clearest model of the role of a living conscience in the Islamic nation after the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him. Pages in most chapters of this book shed light on the biography of Imam Ali from this perspective and lens. It is an inspiring biography for anyone who undertakes social reform, to realize the seriousness of what they aspire to achieve, and to strengthen their ability to face the challenges of reform and change.