Imam
Ali (a.s.) was aware of previous rules and rulers over Egypt and elsewhere,
where men in charge of public affairs generously rewarded their kith and kin at
the expense of rightful and deserving persons.
Their
partial attitude, on one hand, created economic inequalities, on the other, it
led to social and political unrest.
This
flawed practice has very often led to the downfall of mighty empires.
Taking
this particular fact into consideration Imam Ali (a.s.) warns Malik Ashtar
against falling a prey to favouritism and nepotism in the following words: “So
far as your own affairs and those of your relatives and friends are concerned,
take care that you do not violate the duties laid down upon you by the God and
usurp the rights of mankind, be impartial (in granting fiefs and delivering
justice) and do justice… Nothing will bring down His vengeance and His anger
quicker than to insist upon oppression and tyranny over His creatures....”.
The
poor and deprived always used to receive attention of Imam Ali (a.s.). They
occupied a central place in his sermons, actions and policies. He himself led a
life characterizing real traits of poverty.
His
prime concern was welfare of a large number of people and not the welfare of a
few. Imam Ali (a.s.) wanted to realize this through a proactive role of
government.
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