Examining the Issue of Poverty and the Just Distribution of Wealth in the Governance of Imam Ali (PBUH) (With Emphasis on Nahj al-Balaghah)
Keywords:
Imam Ali (AS), Islam, Foreign Policy, Peace, WarAbstract
The present study investigates the perspective and historical approach of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) in confronting the issue of poverty and the equitable distribution of wealth in society, from the beginning of his governance until his martyrdom. It seeks to answer the question of what foundation his performance in dealing with poverty, discrimination, and the implementation of justice was based upon. What impact did his measures have on poverty alleviation, and to what extent was he successful in this regard? The issue of poverty and the fair distribution of public funds (Bayt al-Mal) has long been raised in human societies and has always been a cause of corruption and the collapse of governmental structures. Therefore, it has been of great importance and governments continue to face it. The necessity of conducting this research lies in the fact that poverty and destitution are among the causes of dissatisfaction and have challenged rulers throughout history. Preliminary investigations show that no independent research has so far been carried out in this field, and the conduct of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) in facing these problems was both preventive and rooted in principle. Although most of his obstacles stemmed from the erroneous actions of previous rulers, the perspective and strategic plans of the Imam for eradicating poverty are clearly seen in his correspondence with his governors. Thus, he pursued various measures to implement justice and combat poverty and deprivation. During the short period of Alawite governance, there was a noticeable reduction in class disparities and a fair distribution of wealth. This study, using a descriptive-analytical and library-based method, follows the objectives, plans, and strategies of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) regarding the issue of poverty and destitution, and aims to examine the various aspects of his conduct and performance in a historical trajectory from the beginning of his caliphate to his martyrdom.
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