Alī ibn Abī Ṭālib Quotes

The best companion and helper is admirable morals.

Adversities often bring good qualities to the front.

If you overpower your enemy, then pardon him by way of thankfulness to Allah, for being able to subdue him.

Many persons get nothing out of their fasts but hunger and thirst, many more get nothing out of their night prayers but exertions and sleepless nights. Wise and sagacious persons are praiseworthy even if they do not fast and sleep during the nights.

Our affairs are attached to the destiny decreed by Allah, even our best plans may lead us to destruction.

Self-conceit impedes progress.

There is no capital more useful than intellect and wisdom, and there is no indigence more injurious than ignorance and unawareness.

Death is never very far.

Through us you got guidance in the darkness and secured high position, and through us you got out of the gloomy night. The ears which do not listen to the cries may become deaf. How can one who remained deaf to the loud cries (of the Qur'an and the Prophet) listen to (my) feeble voice. The heart that has ever palpitated (with fear of Allah) may get peace.

A friend cannot be considered a friend unless he is tested on three occasions: in time of need, behind your back and after your death.

Knowledge gives life to the soul.

Obstinacy will prevent you from a correct decision.

So now, surely this world has turned its back and announced its departure while the next world has appeared forward and proclaimed its approach. Today is the day of preparation while tomorrow is the day of race. The place to proceed to is Paradise while the place of doom is Hell. Is there no one to offer repentance over his faults before his death? Or is there no one to perform virtuous acts before the day of trial?

Humility is the product of knowledge.

One who imagines himself to be all-knowing will surely suffer on account of his ignorance.