In Sermon (172), Imam Ali (a.s.) addresses Talhah ibn Ubayd Allah during a time of significant political and social turmoil in the Islamic community, particularly following the assassination of Uthman ibn Affan. Talhah, a prominent companion and supporter of Uthman, had gathered an army in the aftermath of this event to seek vengeance against Uthman's killers. Imam Ali (a.s.) uses this sermon to expose the true intentions behind Talhah's actions.

Imam Ali (a.s.) asserts that Talhah's claim of avenging Uthman's blood is merely a facade, driven by his own fear of being implicated in the demand for that blood. This critical point highlights how Imam Ali (a.s.) reveals Talhah's ulterior motives, suggesting that he is manipulating the situation for his personal interests.

The Imam outlines three possible scenarios regarding Talhah's stance on Uthman: if he believed Uthman was an oppressor, he should have supported his killers; if he thought Uthman was oppressed, he should have defended him; and if he was uncertain, he should have distanced himself from the conflict. These three points illustrate the irrationality and baselessness of Talhah's actions.

This sermon teaches us the importance of examining facts in any matter. We should strive to maintain clarity in our intentions and seek to understand the truth of a situation. Imam Ali's (a.s.) words remind us that true leadership requires us to rise above personal interests and consider the greater good.