This letter is an important communication from Imam Ali (peace be upon him) to Ash'at Ibn Qays. It was written during the time of Imam Ali's caliphate when he was overseeing the governors of various regions. In this letter, Imam Ali (a.s.) reminds Ash'at that his position is not a source of personal gain but rather a trust that he is responsible for safeguarding.

Imam Ali (a.s.) emphasizes that Ash'at does not have the right to act arbitrarily in matters concerning the subjects. This is a crucial principle grounded in justice and fairness within an Islamic government. The Imam stresses the need for Ash'at to have strong justification before taking any significant actions. This advice remains relevant for every government official today.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (a.s.) points out that Ash'at holds the wealth of God Almighty in his hands and is its treasurer. This underscores his responsibility, indicating that his role is not merely that of an administrator but of a custodian. It is essential for him to protect this trust and utilize it appropriately.

The letter concludes with a brief salutation, which reflects the respect and decorum inherent in Islamic tradition. This correspondence teaches us that the ultimate goal of leadership is to serve the public and protect their rights, rather than to pursue personal interests.