Security from the Perspective of Imam Ali in Nahj al-Balaghah with Emphasis on Its Strategic Dimensions in Governance

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Teachings and Education, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

True security is a fundamental foundation in the personal and social lives of individuals. Without it, the talents and entrusted creativity bestowed by the Creator will remain fruitless, and one's social existence will be devoid of meaning. This research examines Imam Ali's perspective on the concept of security, considering its forward-thinking experience in thought and comprehensive guidance for society in practice. It explores some of its dimensions, particularly its strategic and governance aspects, using a descriptive-analytical method. It also highlights one aspect of the advantages of this perspective compared to certain views of political theorists in the field of political science. Today, the experience of Islamic governance in Iran has underscored the necessity of addressing the topic of security as a fundamental principle in the context of religious thought in Islamic systematization more than ever before. From the Imam's statements, the following points can be inferred: 1. Security should be considered in both its spiritual (individual) and strategic (social and general) dimensions. 2. These two dimensions are not separate entities; rather, they should be viewed as a continuous and cohesive entity within the framework of the Creator-Creation relationship, based on the principles of creation, tangibility, continuity, and stability in the system of creation and centered on monotheism and justice. 3. Fundamental matters such as God and Islam should be recognized as the foundation for the components of spiritual security (individual), governance, national unity, economy, politics, divine decree, and military power as the pillars of the components of strategic security (social).

Keywords


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