Alī ibn Abī Ṭālib Quotes

Oppression and tyranny are the worse companions for the Hereafter.

Misrepresentation spoils narration.

To fulfill promises is the highest form of integrity.

When some blessings come to you, do not drive them away through thanklessness.

Never say to yourself, "I am their Lord, their ruler and all in all over them and that I must be obeyed submissively and humbly" because such a thought will unbalance your mind, will make you vain and arrogant, will weaken your faith in religion and will make you seek support of any power other than that of Allah.

When truth was revealed to me I never doubted it.

Do not feel ashamed if the amount of charity is small because to refuse the needy is an act of greater shame.

Unfortunate is he who cannot gain a few sincere friends during his life and more unfortunate is the one who has gained them and then lost them (through his deeds).

Value of a man depends upon his courage; his veracity depends upon his self-respect and his chastity depends upon his sense of honor.

If you understand Allah's Majesty, then you will not attach any importance to the creatures.

There is no greater wealth than wisdom, no greater poverty than ignorance; no greater heritage than culture and no greater support than consultation.

Maalik! You must create in your mind kindness, compassion and love for your subjects. Do not behave towards them as if you are a voracious and ravenous beast and as if your success lies in devouring them.
Remember, Maalik, that amongst your subjects there are two kinds of people: those who have the same religion as you have; they are brothers to you, and those who have religions other than that of yours, they are human beings like you. Men of either category suffer from the same weaknesses and disabilities that human beings are inclined to, they commit sins, indulge in vices either intentionally or foolishly and unintentionally without realizing the enormity of their deeds. Let your mercy and compassion come to their rescue and help in the same way and to the same extent that you expect Allah to show mercy and forgiveness to you.

The wise aim at perfection.

The most complete gift of God is a life based on knowledge.

A moment of patience in the moment of anger prevents thousands of moments of regret.