Strategic Principles for Preserving the Islamic Government from the Perspective of Nahj al-Balagha

Abstract

The existence of the state and government in human social life constitutes an innate and natural necessity, and Islam’s emphasis on establishing an Islamic government and providing teachings in this regard attests to the importance of its existence in society. Numerous internal and external factors threaten any government with the risk of collapse. Therefore, given the importance of preserving the Islamic government in the current context of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as existing political and economic threats and pressures, examining Imam Ali’s strategic principles for preserving the Islamic government becomes essential. The conduct of Imam Ali represents the best model, and Nahj al-Balagha the most authoritative charter in this regard. The present study, employing library-based resources and a descriptive–analytical method, examines these principles. Imam Ali repeatedly addressed modes of governance and clarified the duties of officials and the people in preserving the Islamic government, while also warning of the positive and negative consequences of observing or neglecting these principles and policies. The findings indicate that prudence, unity-oriented approaches, enemy recognition, public enlightenment, the expansion of justice, attention to people’s livelihoods, and confronting economic corruption are among the strategic principles emphasized by Imam Ali for preserving the Islamic government.