Sermon (35) is set in a historical context where Imam Ali (a.s.) faced significant political and social challenges among the Muslims. This sermon was delivered after the arbitration (tahkim), a pivotal moment in which the Imam sought to resolve a contentious issue among the community. The political climate was rife with divisions and strife, prompting Imam Ali (a.s.) to provide guidance with wisdom and insight.

The main themes of this sermon include the praise of Allah, the importance of heeding counsel, and the consequences of ignoring wise advice. Imam Ali (a.s.) begins by affirming the oneness of Allah, emphasizing that there is no deity but Him. He then highlights the regret and shame that follow the rejection of a kind, knowledgeable, and experienced advisor's counsel.

He expresses a wish that his advice regarding the arbitration had been accepted, indicating that the refusal led to negative outcomes, even causing the advisor himself to doubt his counsel. This teaches us the importance of taking the advice of seasoned and compassionate leaders seriously, as disregarding it often leads to detrimental consequences.

Imam Ali (a.s.) references a poet's saying to illustrate the condition of his followers, indicating that people often fail to recognize the value of advice at the moment it is given, only to realize its truth later. This serves as a crucial lesson that we should reflect on the guidance of our leaders, even if we do not immediately understand its significance.