In Sermon (189), Imam Ali (a.s.) provides a detailed description of the state of the world and its people. This sermon was delivered at a time when people were lost in misguidance and confusion, making it a significant message for Islamic society. The Imam begins with the praise of Allah, highlighting His greatness, knowledge, and justice. These statements reflect the position of humanity in light of Allah's power and wisdom.
The Imam emphasizes the importance of piety (taqwa), which serves as a refuge in this world and a path to Paradise in the hereafter. This message indicates that through piety, a person can refine their life and attain Allah's pleasure. The Imam also notes that on the Day of Judgment, Allah will question His servants about the blessings He bestowed upon them, and on that day, grateful servants will be very few.
He advises people to make piety a guiding principle in their lives and to use it to compensate for their shortcomings. This advice is crucial not only on an individual level but also socially, as a righteous society can attain Allah's pleasure. The Imam warns against the deception of the world and its temporary pleasures, asserting that the true success lies in the hereafter.
The Imam describes the state of the world as a place where people are left helpless, and its deceptions have led them to folly. This depiction compels us to reflect on prioritizing the preparation for the hereafter over transient worldly gains. The Imam stresses the necessity of avoiding the allure of the world, urging us to live according to the principles of piety.
This sermon teaches us that following the path of piety is the true success, and the pleasures of the world will never provide real tranquility. Imam Ali's (a.s.) advice remains a guiding light for us today, and we should strive to implement it in our lives.
