Nahj al-Balāgha

By: al-Sharīf al-Raḍī

Translator: Sayed Ali Raza

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Written by al-Sharīf al-Raḍī, Nahj al-Balāgha is an extraordinary anthology that chronicles the wisdom and eloquence of one of Islam's most revered figures, the Commander of the Faithful, ʿAlī b. Abī Ṭālib (as). By means of transmitting various sermons, letters, and maxims, this book provides profound insight into the spiritual, ethical, rational and societal dimensions of the Islamic faith. al-Raḍī, one of the scholars having descended from the lineage of ʿAlī himself, meticulously collected these valuable pieces of literature. He divided the book into three main sections— sermons, letters, and maxims. These divisions allow for comprehensive coverage of ʿAlī’s teachings and make it easy to navigate the book's extensive content. In the sermons, readers will encounter profound reflections on topics as varied as the creation of the universe, human nature, good and oppressive governments. The teachings are not confined to religious philosophy only, but also extend to the natural sciences and provide historical information regarding early Islamic society and the political disputes that had arisen after the passing of the Apostle (as). Despite the careful curation, al-Raḍī humbly acknowledges that the collection may not cover all of ʿAlī’s teachings. Yet, he aspires that the book will serve as an open door to the world of eloquence, quenching the thirst for spiritual wisdom and providing a cure for the maladies of disbelief and doubt.