In Sermon (85), Imam Ali (a.s.) addresses the state of the friends of Allah and criticizes false scholars. This sermon was delivered at a time when there were individuals in the Islamic community who claimed knowledge but were misleading people with their teachings and actions. Imam highlights the characteristics of a true believer who struggles against his own desires, whose heart is illuminated by the lamp of guidance, and who is free from worldly fears and desires.

Imam emphasizes that such individuals are beloved to Allah and their ultimate goal is to seek His pleasure. He stresses the importance of knowledge and insight for a believer to navigate their path towards righteousness. Imam condemns the scholars who manipulate the Quran to fit their desires and mislead the public, describing them as lifeless beings masquerading as humans.

He urges the people to recognize the clear signs of guidance and the banners of truth that are raised among them. Imam calls upon the community to turn towards the progeny of the Prophet (peace be upon him), who are the true bearers of knowledge and truth. He advises them to act according to their teachings to remain on the right path.

The Imam also points out that much of the truth lies in matters that people are unfamiliar with, advising them not to impose their opinions on issues they do not fully understand. He warns against those who claim knowledge but are actually ignorant, as they pose a danger to society.

Towards the end of the sermon, Imam Ali (a.s.) makes a reference to the Umayyad dynasty, cautioning the people not to believe that the world will always be in their favor. He reminds them that the pleasures of this life are fleeting and will soon be discarded.

This sermon serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of true knowledge, the dangers of false scholarship, and the need to remain steadfast in the pursuit of righteousness and guidance from the rightful sources.