In Sermon (87), Imam Ali (a.s.) discusses the state of the world at the time Allah sent His Prophet (peace be upon him). This was a period marked by the cessation of messengers and a long slumber of nations. During this time, troubles had begun to arise, wars were raging, and the world was devoid of beauty and light. It was a world where everything was in disarray, the minarets of guidance had disappeared, and people were under the banners of destruction and misguidance. Imam describes this world as one where its fruits were sedition and its food was carrion.

The Imam calls upon the people to take lessons from the past and to remember the evil deeds that have ensnared their fathers and brothers, emphasizing the accountability that awaits them. He asserts that their time is not far removed from that of the past, and there is no significant distance between them and those who came before. This serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding historical lessons and the cyclical nature of human behavior.

Imam Ali (a.s.) also emphasizes that the messages conveyed by the Messenger (peace be upon him) are the same messages being delivered to them today. This highlights the unchanging nature of the core teachings of Islam and the continuity of divine guidance throughout time. He reassures the audience that they have been given the same eyes and hearts to perceive and understand the truth, just as those in the past had.

In conclusion, the Imam warns against being deceived by the transient allure of worldly possessions and status, describing it as a fleeting shadow. This serves as a powerful reminder that worldly gains are temporary, and one must seek enduring values such as faith and morality in their lives. The sermon encourages self-reflection and a deeper understanding of one's purpose in the light of historical precedents.