Detailed Explanation — Wisdom (157): A person asked you for admonition, so he said! You should not be one of those people who hope for a good end without action, and by increasing their hopes, they delay others, who talk about the world like ascetics, but their actions are those of those who seek the world. They love good people but do not act on them and hate sinners even though they themselves are involved in them. When they get rid of the disease, they start to give up. And when they suffer, they become despondent. When they fall into some hardship and affliction, they pray helplessly and helplessly, and when they are blessed with a generous hand, they turn away in delusion. If they become poor, they become hopeless and become lazy. When they act, they are lazy in it, and when they come to beg, they exceed the limit in their insistence. If they are dominated by selfish desires, they commit sins as quickly as possible, and keep putting off repentance. But they themselves do not take the effect of this advice, so they are high in talking. But they are rarely in action. They are self-centered in mortal things and act with ease in remaining things. They consider profit as loss and loss as profit. They are afraid of death. But they do not rush into actions before the opportunity of leisure is gone. That is why they object to people and praise their own selves with flattering words. They like to be engaged in entertainment with the rich than to participate in gatherings with the poor. They ignore their Lord and fear the creatures and do not fear their Lord regarding the creatures.

Wisdom (157): A person asked you for admonition, so he said! You should not be one of those people who hope for a good end without action, and by increasing their hopes, they delay others, who talk about the world like ascetics, but their actions are those of those who seek the world.

This wisdom from Imam Ali (a.s.) emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the need for action in the pursuit of a fulfilling life. It reflects a historical context where people often fall into complacency, hoping for a favorable outcome without putting in the necessary effort. Imam Ali (a.s.) calls attention to the disconnect between one's words and actions, urging individuals to align their intentions with their deeds.

The main theme of this saying is the necessity of taking responsibility for one's actions. The phrase "if you see, you have been shown" suggests that knowledge and guidance are available; however, it requires an active engagement from the individual to truly understand and implement them. Imam Ali (a.s.) stresses that mere acknowledgment of good or bad is not enough; one must act accordingly.

Key phrases like "you have been shown" and "you have been guided" highlight the idea that enlightenment and guidance are not hidden but are accessible to those who seek them. This wisdom serves as a reminder that inaction, despite knowledge, leads to missed opportunities for growth and betterment.

The moral and spiritual lessons here are profound. It teaches us that we must not only seek knowledge and guidance but also apply them in our lives. The practical takeaway is to be proactive in our actions, to strive for improvement, and to hold ourselves accountable for our choices. Imam Ali (a.s.) encourages us to reflect on our actions and ensure they align with our values and beliefs, ultimately leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life.