Among the Concise Words of the Messenger of Allah (Peace Be Upon Him)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "That which is little but sufficient is better than that which is abundant and distracts."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The best provision (for hereafter) is piety."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The foundation of wisdom is the fear of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The best of things that can be placed in the heart is certainty.

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Doubt (in religion) is part of disbelief."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Wailing is an act of the Age of Ignorance."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Intoxication is a burning coal of the Fire (Hellfire)."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Poetry is from Iblis (Satan)."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Alcohol is the source of all sins."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Women are the snares of Satan."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Youth is a branch of madness (irrationality)."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The worst of earnings is the earning through usury."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The worst of foods (wealth) is consuming the wealth of an orphan unjustly."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The fortunate one is he who learns a lesson from others."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The wretched one is he who is destined for wretchedness while in his mother's womb."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Your ultimate destination (grave) is four cubits."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The greatest form of usury is lying."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Insulting a believer is wickedness, fighting a believer is disbelief, consuming his flesh (backbiting) is disobedience to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, and the sanctity of his wealth is like the sanctity of his blood."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Whoever suppresses anger, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, will reward him."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Whoever is patient during a calamity, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will compensate him."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Now the battle (battlefield) has intensified." (Spoken on the Day of Battle of Hunayn)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "A believer is not stung from the same hole twice."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Affliction (harm) does not come to a person except with his own hand."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The strong one is the one who overcomes himself (nafs)."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "'Hearing' (with the ears) is not equivalent to 'seeing' (with the eyes)."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "O' Allah سبحانه وتعالى, bless my nation in its (utilizing) early mornings on its Saturdays and Thursdays."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Gatherings are based on trust." (referring to that which is said and heard during gatherings)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The leader of a people should serve (the people)."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "If (even) a mountain were to oppress another mountain, Allah سبحانه وتعالى would crush it to dust."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Begin (good behaviors and conduct) with those whom you support (family)."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "War is deception." (War obfuscates truth, and is lacking in transparency and truth)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "A Muslim is a mirror to his brother."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "He died a natural death." (spoken regarding a person who dies whilst not partaking in active jihad)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Affliction is connected to speech." (words can bring about trials or difficulties)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "People are equal like the teeth of a comb."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "What disease is more severe than miserliness?"

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Modesty is entirely good." (in its wellness and virtue)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "A false oath leaves homes desolate of their inhabitants."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The quickest evil to be punished is oppression." (by Allah سبحانه وتعالى in the Hereafter)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The fastest good to be rewarded is righteousness." (by Allah سبحانه وتعالى in the Hereafter)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Muslims are bound by their agreements." (that they make to others)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Indeed, some poetry contains wisdom, and indeed, some speech has a magical effect."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Show mercy to those on the earth, and the One (Allah سبحانه وتعالى) in the heavens will show mercy to you."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Whoever is killed defending his wealth is a martyr."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The one who takes back his gift is like the one who returns to his vomit."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "It is not permissible for a believer to abandon his believing brother for more than three days."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Whoever does not show mercy (to others) will not be shown mercy (by Allah سبحانه وتعالى in the Hereafter)."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Regret (of a sin) is (a form of) repentance."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The child is attributed to the (lawful) bed, and for the adulterer, there is the stone (hadd)."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The one who guides to good is like the one who does it."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Your love for something blinds and deafens you." (to its faults and catches)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "He does not (rightfully) thank Allah سبحانه وتعالى, who does not thank people." (for doing good onto him)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "No one shelters the misguided except the misguided."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Protect yourselves from the Fire, even if it is with half a date." (showing the enormous merits of even the modest acts of Charity or 'Sadaqa')

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The souls are like recruited soldiers; those that recognize one another will find harmony, and those that do not will be in discord." (regarding spiritual affinity between individuals)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The delay in (due) payment by a wealthy person is injustice."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Travel (discomforts) is a portion of torment."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "People are like mines, just as gold and silver mines."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The host of a gathering has the most right to the forefront of his gathering."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Throw dust onto the faces of those who excessively praise (you)." (advises rejecting excessive flattery)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Bring down means of sustenance (from Allah سبحانه وتعالى) through (giving) charity."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Repel affliction with supplication." (emphasizes the power of supplication (dua) in warding off difficulties and hardships)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Hearts are naturally inclined to love those who do good to them and to dislike those who harm them."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Wealth does not decrease because of (giving in) charity."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "There is no charity while a close relative is in need." (needy relatives have a bigger right over the money that was to be given in charity elsewhere)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "Health and free time are two neglected blessings." (failing to recognize the true value of good health and downtime or spare time)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "The forgiveness of a king preserves the kingdom longer."

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "A man's gift to his wife increases her chastity." (strengthens her sense of loyalty and affinity for her husband)

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said; "There is no obedience to the created (makhlooq) in disobedience to the Creator (Khaliq, the one Allah سبحانه وتعالى)." (Obedience to anyone other than Allah سبحانه وتعالى, will not supercede the divine commands of Allah سبحانه وتعالى if it leads to the disobedience of Allah سبحانه وتعالى) "

Muhammad ibn Ibrahim ibn Ishaq, may Allah سبحانه وتعالى be pleased with him, narrated to me from Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Said Al-Hamdani, who said: Al-Hasan ibn Al-Qasim recited to me, saying: Ali ibn Ibrahim ibn Al-Mualla narrated to us, who said: Abu Abdullah Muhammad ibn Khalid narrated to us, who said: Abdullah ibn Bakr Al-Muradi narrated from Imam Musa ibn Jafar Al-Kadhim عليه السلام, from his father Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq, from his grandfather Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, from Imam Ali ibn Al-Hussain عليه السلام, from his father Imam Hussain ibn Ali عليه السلام, peace be upon him, who said: "One day, the Commander of the Faithful عليه السلام, peace be upon him, was sitting with his companions, preparing them for battle. A man, bearing the signs of travel, approached and asked: "Where is the Commander of the Faithful?" They replied: "Here he is." He greeted Imam عليه السلام and said: "O' Commander of the Faithful عليه السلام, I have come to you from the region of Sham. I am an old man who has heard countless virtues about you, and I believe that you may be assassinated. Teach me from what Allah سبحانه وتعالى has taught you." Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام said: "Yes, O' elderly man; 'Whoever's two days are equal is at a loss.' 'Whoever makes this world his main concern will suffer greatly at its departure.' 'Whoever's tomorrow is worse than his today is deprived.' 'Whoever does not care about what he loses from his Hereafter as long as his worldly affairs are intact is destroyed.' 'Whoever does not regularly examine his own shortcomings will be overtaken by his desires.' And 'whoever is in a state of deficiency, death is better for him.' O' elderly man, be pleased for people with what you are pleased for yourself and treat people as you would like to be treated." Then Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام turned to his companions and said: "O' people, do you not see how the people of this world end their evenings and begin their mornings in various conditions? Among them is one who is writhing in pain, another visiting and being visited, another struggling with his soul, another who has no hope left, another who is shrouded, one who seeks the world while death is seeking him, one who is heedless yet is not forgotten, and the remaining are following in the footsteps of those who have passed." Zayd ibn Suhan Al-Abdi then asked: "O' Commander of the Faithful عليه السلام, which power is the most dominant and strongest?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "Desire." He (Zayd) asked: "Which humiliation is the most degrading?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "Greed for the world." He (Zayd) asked: "Which poverty is the most severe?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "Disbelief after faith." He (Zayd) asked: "Which call is the most misguided?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who calls for what cannot be." He (Zayd) asked: "Which deed is the best?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "Piety." He (Zayd) asked: "Which action is the most successful?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "Seeking what is with Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic." He (Zayd) asked: "Who is the worst companion for you?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who beautifies disobedience to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, for you." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among creation is the most wretched?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who sells his religion for the worldly life of another." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among creation is the strongest?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who is patient and forbearing." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among creation is the most miserly?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who acquires wealth unlawfully and spends it inappropriately." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among people is the wisest?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who recognizes his guidance from his misguidance and inclines towards his guidance." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among people is the most patient?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who does not become angry." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among people has the most steadfast opinion?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who is not deceived by people about himself and whom the world does not deceive with its attractions." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among people is the most foolish?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who is deluded by the world despite witnessing its changing conditions." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among people will have the greatest regret?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who is deprived of both this world and the Hereafter - that is the clear loss." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among creation is the most blind?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who acts for other than Allah سبحانه وتعالى while seeking reward for his actions from Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic." He (Zayd) asked: "Which contentment is the best?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "Being content with what Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Majestic, has given." He (Zayd) asked: "Which affliction is the most severe?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The affliction in religion." He (Zayd) asked: "Which deeds are most beloved to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "Awaiting relief (deliverance)." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among people is the best in the sight of Allah سبحانه وتعالى?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who fears Allah سبحانه وتعالى the most, acts most righteously with piety, and is the most detached from the world." He (Zayd) asked: "Which speech is the best in the sight of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "Abundant remembrance of Him سبحانه وتعالى and humbly supplicating to Him سبحانه وتعالى in prayer." He (Zayd) asked: "Which statement is the most truthful?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The testimony that there is 'no God but Allah سبحانه وتعالى'." He (Zayd) asked: "Which deeds are the greatest before Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "Submission (to Allah سبحانه وتعالى) and piety." He (Zayd) asked: "Who among people is the most truthful?" Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام replied: "The one who is truthful in all circumstances." Then the Commander of the Faithful, peace be upon him, turned to the elderly man and said: "O' elderly man, indeed Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, has created people upon whom He سبحانه وتعالى has narrowed the worldly life, looking upon them with care. He سبحانه وتعالى made them disinterested in it and in its fleeting pleasures, so they longed for the Abode of Peace (Paradise) to which He سبحانه وتعالى invited them. They patiently endured the hardship of life and bore difficulties, yearning for the honor that is with Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic. They sacrificed themselves seeking Allah's سبحانه وتعالى pleasure, and the conclusion of their deeds was martyrdom. Thus, they met Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic, while He سبحانه وتعالى was pleased with them. They (these people) have understood that death is the path for those who have passed and those who remain. Therefore, they prepared for their Hereafter, not with gold or silver, but by wearing coarse garments, patiently enduring trials, prioritizing virtue, loving for the sake of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, and hating for the sake of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic. They are the beacons of light and the people of bliss in the Hereafter. And peace be upon you." The elderly man said: "Where could I go, leaving Paradise behind when I can see it and see its people with you, O' Commander of the Faithful عليه السلام? Equip me with strength so that I may fight your enemies." So the Commander of the Faithful عليه السلام, peace be upon him, provided him with weapons and provisions. The elderly man joined the battle, fighting in front of Commander of the Faithful عليه السلام, peace be upon him, striking (fighting) with great vigor. The Commander of the Faithful, peace be upon him, was amazed at what the elderly man did. When the battle intensified, the elderly man charged his horse forwards until he was martyred - may Allah سبحانه وتعالى have mercy on him. One of the companions of the Commander of the Faithful, peace be upon him, followed him and found him lying lifeless, his mount nearby, and his sword still in his hand. When the battle ended, the companion brought his mount and weapons to the Commander of the Faithful. The Commander of the Faithful, peace be upon him, prayed over him and said: "This (elderly) man, by Allah سبحانه وتعالى, is truly fortunate. So seek mercy for your brother."

The Commander of the Faithful, peace be upon him, said in his will to his son Muhammad ibn Al-Hanafiyyah, may Allah سبحانه وتعالى be pleased with him: "O' my son, beware of relying on vain hopes, for they are the merchandise of the foolish and a hindrance from the Hereafter. One of the best fortunes a person can have is a righteous companion - sit with the people of goodness, and you will be one of them; separate yourself from the people of evil. Keep away from those who divert you from the remembrance of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic, and the remembrance of death with embellished falsehoods and fabricated rumors. Do not let ill thoughts about Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic, overpower you, for they will not leave any reconciliation between you and your friend. Discipline your heart with good manners as fire is kindled with wood, for good manners are a great aid for one's nature, and experiences are a guide for the wise. Combine the opinions of different men, then choose the one closest to correctness and farthest from doubt. O' my son, there is no honor higher than Islam, no dignity greater than piety, n o stronghold more secure than restraint, no intercessor more effective than repentance, no garment more beautiful than well-being, no protection stronger than safety, and no treasure wealthier than contentment. And there is no wealth that removes poverty better than contentment with sustenance. Whoever suffices with the bare necessities has attained ease and settled in comfort. Greed leads to plunging into sins. Cast away intrusive worries with firm resolve in patience. Accustom yourself to patience, for it is the best of manners, and endure the hardships and concerns of this world. The successful ones have triumphed, and those for whom Allah سبحانه وتعالى has decreed goodness have been saved, for patience is a shield against poverty. Entrust all your affairs to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the One سبحانه وتعالى, the All-Dominant سبحانه وتعالى, for in doing so, you take refuge in a fortified cave, a secure stronghold, and an invincible protector. Sincerely direct your supplications to your Lord سبحانه وتعالى, for in His سبحانه وتعالى hands are all good and evil, giving and withholding, granting and depriving." And Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام, said in this will: "O' my son, sustenance is of two kinds: one that you seek, and one that seeks you. If you do not go to it, it will come to you. So do not burden yourself with the worries of your entire year upon the concern of your day; each day is sufficient with what it holds. If the year is part of your life, then Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic, will bring to you each day what He سبحانه وتعالى has apportioned for you. And if the year is not part of your life, then why concern yourself with grief and anxiety over what is not yours? Know that no seeker can overtake you in your sustenance, nor can anyone overpower you in it, and what has been decreed for you will not be kept from you. How many seekers have you seen exhausting themselves, yet their provision remains restricted, while others who seek with moderation find that destiny aids them? And everything is accompanied by its end. Today is yours, but you have no certainty of reaching tomorrow. How many have awaited a day they never lived to see? How many were envied at the beginning of a night, yet by its end, they were mourned? So do not be deceived by the prolonged presence of blessings from Allah سبحانه وتعالى or by the delay in the arrival of punishment, for if He سبحانه وتعالى feared missing the opportunity, He سبحانه وتعالى would hasten the punishment before death. O' my son, accept the wisdom of the wise, reflect upon their judgments, and be the one who adheres most to what you command others and refrains most from what you forbid. Enjoin what is good so that you may be among its people, for the completion of matters lies with Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Blessed and Exalted." Enjoin what is good and forbid what is evil, and seek understanding in religion, for the jurists are the inheritors of the prophets. The prophets did not leave behind dinars or dirhams, but rather, they left behind knowledge, and whoever takes from it has taken a great share. Know that the seeker of knowledge is prayed for by those in the heavens and the earth, even the birds in the sky and the fish in the sea. The angels lower their wings for the seeker of knowledge out of pleasure for him. In knowledge, there is the honor of this world and success in Paradise on the Day of Judgment, for the jurists are the callers to Paradise and the guides to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Blessed and Exalted. Treat all people kindly just as you would like to be treated, and be pleased for them with what you are pleased with for yourself. Dislike for yourself what you dislike in others, and perfect your character with all people so that if you are absent, they long for you, and if you die, they weep for you and say, 'Indeed, we belong to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, and indeed, to Him we shall return.'" And do not be among those about whom it is said at their death: 'All praise is due to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Lord of the worlds.' (being grateful of your demise) Know that the essence of intellect, after faith in Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic, is managing relationships with people. There is no good in one who does not deal kindly with those whom he must interact with, until Allah سبحانه وتعالى provides a way for deliverance from them. Indeed, I have found that everything by which people live and associate with one another fills a measure - two-thirds of it is appreciation, and one-third of it is overlooking faults. Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic, has created nothing better than speech, and nothing more disgraceful than it. With speech, faces are brightened, and with speech, faces are blackened. Know that speech remains under your control as long as you have not spoken it, but once you have spoken it, you become under its control. So guard your tongue as you would guard your gold and silver, for the tongue is a vicious dog - if you release it, it will bite. Many a word has stripped a person of blessings. Whoever lets go of his restraint is led to every undesirable and disgraceful act, and he will not be saved from his time except with the wrath of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic and blame from people will follow the one who risks himself by relying solely on his own opinion. Whoever considers multiple perspectives will recognize where mistakes lie. Whoever rushes into matters without looking at the consequences exposes himself to devastating calamities. Planning before action protects you from regret. The intelligent one is he who learns from experiences, for in experiences lies new knowledge, and in the changes of circumstances lies the knowledge of the true nature of men. The passing of days reveals hidden secrets. Understand this will of mine, and do not disregard it, for the best speech is that which benefits. Know, O' my son, that you must carefully seek provision and take only what is necessary while keeping your burden light. Do not load upon your back more than you can bear, lest it becomes a heavy burden upon you in your resurrection on the Day of Judgment. The worst provision for the Hereafter is oppression against the servants of Allah سبحانه وتعالى. Know that ahead of you are dangers, pitfalls, bridges, and a steep ascent, which you will inevitably descend. Its descent will either lead to Paradise or to Hell. So prepare yourself before you reach it. If you find among those in need someone who can carry your provision to the Hereafter, so that he may deliver it to you when you are in dire need of it, then take advantage of this opportunity, and let him carry it for you while you have the ability. Perhaps a time will come when you seek such an opportunity but will not find it. Beware of entrusting your provisions to one who lacks piety and honesty, lest your condition be like that of a thirsty person who sees a mirage, but when he reaches it, he finds nothing, and so he remains stranded in the Hereafter with nothing to sustain him." And Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام said in this will: "O' my son, oppression leads to ruin. No one will perish who knows his own worth. Whoever safeguards his desires preserves his dignity. The worth of every person is in what they excel at. Reflection brings guidance. The noblest wealth is to abandon false hopes. Greed is present poverty. Affection is an acquired kinship. Your true friend is your brother from your father and mother, but not every sibling from your parents is your friend. Do not take the enemy of your friend as a friend, lest you become an enemy to your own friend. How many distant people are closer to you than those who are near? A generous yet poor person is better than a wealthy but rude one. Admonition is a refuge for those who heed it. Whoever boasts of his favor (to others) spoils it (their reward). Whoever has bad manners torments himself, and resentment is more fitting for him. It is unjust to judge based on suspicion when trust is required. How ugly is arrogance in victory, despair in hardship, cruelty to a neighbor, betrayal of a companion, breaking an oath by a noble person, and treachery from a ruler. Denying blessings leads to destruction, and keeping company with a fool is misfortune. Acknowledge the right of those who uphold it, whether they are noble or lowly. Whoever abandons moderation goes astray. Whoever oversteps justice finds his path narrow. How many ailing people have survived, and how many healthy ones have perished? Sometimes despair leads to success, and greed leads to destruction. Reconcile with those whom you hope will accept your apology. Never sleep with betrayal in your heart toward anyone, for betrayal is the worst trait of a Muslim. Whoever betrays is likely to never be trusted again. Corruption ruins abundance, while moderation increases little. Of nobility is fulfilling covenants. Whoever is generous will lead, and whoever seeks understanding will increase in wisdom. Be sincere in advising your brother and support him in all matters, as long as he does not lead you into disobedience to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic." Stay with your brother wherever he goes. Do not sever ties with him over doubt, nor cut him off without first seeking reconciliation - perhaps he has an excuse while you blame him. Accept the apology of one who seeks pardon, so that intercession may reach you. Honor those through whom you gain strength, and lengthen your companionship with them in kindness, respect, reverence, and esteem. The recompense of one who elevates your status is not that you lower his, and the reward of one who brings you joy is not that you cause him sorrow. Show as much kindness as you can to your companion, for when you wish, you will find his guidance. The faults of one clothed in modesty remain hidden from sight. Whoever maintains moderation finds his burdens lightened. Whoever does not grant his soul its desires attains wisdom. With every hardship, there is ease, and with every meal, there may be choking. No blessing is attained except after hardship. Be gentle with one who angers you, and you will achieve your goal. The hours of distress are hours of atonement, and time gradually consumes your life. There is no good in a pleasure that is followed by the Fire. And no good is truly good if it is followed by the Fire, and no evil is truly evil if it is followed by Paradise. Every pleasure besides Paradise is insignificant, and every hardship besides the Fire is a form of well-being. Do not neglect your brother's right, relying on the bond between you and him, for he is not truly your brother if you disregard his right. Do not let your brother be stronger in cutting ties with you than you are in maintaining them, nor let him be more capable of harming you than you are of showing kindness to him. O' my son, when you are strong, then be strong in obedience to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic, and when you are weak, then let your weakness be in avoiding disobedience to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic. If you can, do not grant a woman authority over her affairs beyond herself, for that preserves her beauty longer, brings her more peace of mind, and improves her condition. A woman is like a delicate flower, not a steward - so treat her kindly in every situation, and be good in your companionship with her so that your life may be peaceful. Accept fate with contentment. If you wish to gather the best of this world and the Hereafter, then cut your expectations from what is in the hands of people. And peace be upon you, and the mercy of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, and His سبحانه وتعالى blessings."

Muhammad ibn Abi Umayr narrated from Aban ibn Uthman, Hisham ibn Salim, and Muhammad ibn Humran from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, who said: "I am amazed at the one who becomes afraid - how does he not turn to the words of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic: 'Allah سبحانه وتعالى is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs' (Surah AAl-E-Imran 3:173)? For I heard Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, say immediately after it: 'So they returned with favor from Allah سبحانه وتعالى and bounty, no harm having touched them' (Surah AAl-E-Imran 3:174). And I am amazed at the one who is distressed - how does he not turn to His saying: 'There is no God but You; glory be to You! Indeed, I was among the wrongdoers' (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:87)? For I heard Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, say after it: 'So We responded to him and saved him from distress. And thus do We save the believers' (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:88). And I am amazed at the one who is plotted against - how does he not turn to His سبحانه وتعالى saying: 'I entrust my affair to Allah سبحانه وتعالى. Indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى is Seeing of the servants' (Surah Ghafir 40:44)? For I heard Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, say after it: 'So Allah سبحانه وتعالى protected him from the evil of their plots' (Surah Ghafir 40:45). And I am amazed at the one who desires the world and its adornments - how does he not turn to His سبحانه وتعالى saying: 'What Allah سبحانه وتعالى wills [will happen]. There is no power except with Allah سبحانه وتعالى' (Surah Al-Kahf 18:39)? For I heard Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, say after it: 'If you see me less than you in wealth and children, perhaps my Lord عز وجل will give me something better than your garden' (Surah Al-Kahf 18:39). And indeed, the word 'perhaps' necessitates fulfillment."

Muhammad ibn Ziyad Al-Azdi narrated from Aban ibn Uthman Al-Ahmar, from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, that a man came to him and said: "May my father and mother be sacrificed for you, O' son of the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, teach me something that will admonish me." Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, said to him: "If Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Exalted, has ensured sustenance, then why are you anxious about it? If sustenance is already apportioned, then why the greed? If accountability is real, then why the accumulation (of wealth)? If compensation from Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, is certain, then why the stinginess? If punishment from Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, is the Fire, then why the disobedience? If death is inevitable, then why the joy (in worldly matters)? If standing before Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, is certain, then why the deceit? If Satan is an enemy, then why the heedlessness? If crossing the Sirat (the bridge over Hell) is certain, then why the arrogance? If everything is by Allah's سبحانه وتعالى decree and destiny, then why the sorrow? And if the world is perishable, then why the tranquility in it?"

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, said: "Indeed, I feel mercy for three people, and it is their right to be shown mercy: A noble person who has been humiliated after his honor, A wealthy person who has fallen into poverty after wealth, And a scholar who is belittled by his own people and the ignorant."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "Five things are exactly as I say: A miser will never find comfort, A jealous person will never experience pleasure, A slave will not have loyalty, A liar will have no honor, And a foolish person will never attain leadership."

Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, said: "Indeed, you cannot encompass people with your wealth, so encompass them with your good character."

Yunus ibn Zabyan narrated from Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, that he said: "Being well-known for worship is a source of suspicion. My father Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, narrated to me from his father Imam Ali ibn Al-Hussain عليه السلام, from his grandfather Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام, peace be upon them, that the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, said: 'The most devout of people, is the one who upholds the obligatory acts. The most generous of people, is the one who pays the zakat on his wealth. The most ascetic of people, is the one who avoids what is forbidden. The most God-fearing of people, is the one who speaks the truth, whether it is for or against him. The most just of people, is the one who is pleased for others with what he is pleased for himself and dislikes for them what he dislikes for himself. The wisest of people, is the one who remembers death the most. The most enviable of people, is the one who is under the earth (in the grave) but safe from punishment and hoping for reward. The most heedless of people, is the one who does not learn from the changing states of the world. The greatest in status in this world, is the one who considers the world to have no worth to him. The most knowledgeable of people, is the one who gathers the knowledge of others along with his own. The bravest of people, is the one who overcomes his desires. The most valuable of people, is the one with the most knowledge. The least valuable of people, is the one with the least knowledge. The least delighted of people, is the envious person. The least comfortable of people, is the miser. The stingiest of people, is the one who withholds what Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, has made obligatory.'" Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام: "The person most entitled to the truth is the one most knowledgeable of it. The least respected among people, is the sinner. The least loyal among people, is the servant. The one with the fewest friends, is the king. The poorest of people, is the one consumed by greed. The richest of people, is the one who is not enslaved by desire. The best in faith among people, is the one with the best character. The most honorable of people, is the most God-conscious. The greatest in status among people, is the one who abandons what does not concern him. The most pious of people, is the one who avoids argumentation, even when he is right. The least dignified among people, is the liar. The most wretched of people, are kings. The most hated of people, is the arrogant. The most diligent of people, is the one who abandons sins. The wisest of people, is the one who avoids ignorant people. The happiest of people, is the one who associates with honorable people. The most intelligent of people, is the one who deals most patiently with people. The most deserving of suspicion, is the one who keeps the company of suspicious people. The most rebellious of people, is the one who kills someone who did not kill him or strikes someone who did not strike him. The person most worthy of forgiveness, is the one most capable of punishment. The most deserving of blame, is the foolish backbiter. The most humiliated of people, is the one who humiliates others. The most composed of people, is the one who suppresses anger the most. The most righteous of people, is the one who is most beneficial to others. And the best of people, is the one from whom people benefit."

The Commander of the Faithful, peace be upon him, passed by a man who was speaking excessively and unnecessarily. Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام stopped and said to him: "O' man, you are dictating to your two recording angels a book to be presented to your Lord عز وجل. So speak only about what concerns you and leave what does not concern you."

The Commander of the Faithful, peace be upon him, said: "A Muslim man continues to be recorded as a doer of good as long as he remains silent. But when he speaks, he is recorded either as a doer of good or a doer of evil."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, said: "Silence is a vast treasure, the adornment of the wise, and a covering for the ignorant."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, said: "Speaking the truth is better than remaining silent upon falsehood."

Isma'il ibn Muslim narrated from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام from his father, Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, from his forefathers, peace be upon them, who said that the Commander of the Faithful, said: "The scholars and the wise, when writing to one another, would write with three pieces of advice, with no fourth: Whoever makes the Hereafter his concern, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will suffice him in his worldly concerns. Whoever rectifies his inner self, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will rectify his outward state. Whoever improves what is between him and Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will improve what is between him and people."

Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, said: "Glad tidings to the one whose life is long and whose deeds are good, for his outcome will be good as his Lord عز وجل is pleased with him. And woe to the one whose life is long and whose deeds are evil, for his outcome will be bad as his Lord عز وجل, the Mighty and Majestic, is displeased with him."

Amr ibn Shimr narrated from Jabir ibn Yazid Al-Jufi, from Abu Jafar Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, peace be upon him, who said: "Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, revealed to His Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him and his family: 'I have thanked Jafar ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام for four qualities.' The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, called him and informed him. Jafar عليه السلام said: 'If Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Blessed and Exalted, had not informed you, I would not have told you. I have never drunk wine because I knew if I drank it, my mind would be gone. I have never lied because lying diminishes honor. I have never committed adultery because I feared that if I did it, the same would be done to me. I have never worshiped an idol because I knew it could neither harm nor benefit.' The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, placed his hand on Jafar's عليه السلام shoulder and said: 'It is a right upon Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, to grant you two wings with which you will fly with the angels in Paradise.'"

Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, said: "Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Glorious and Exalted, said: 'O' My servants, all of you are misguided except those whom I have guided. All of you are in need except those whom I have enriched. And all of you are sinners except those whom I have protected.'"

In the narration of Al-Sakuni, it is reported that Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام said: "There is no day that passes over the son of Adam except that the day says to him: 'I am a new day, and I am a witness over you. So speak good in me and act righteously in me, for I will testify for you on the Day of Judgment. You will never see me again after this.'"

In the narration of Mas'ada ibn Sadaqa, the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said: "A believer has seven rights over another believer, which are obligatory upon him by Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic: to respect him in his sight, to have affection for him in his heart, to assist him with his wealth, to prohibit speaking ill of him in his absence, to visit him when he is sick, to accompany his funeral, and to speak only good of him after his death."

Ibn Abi Umayr narrated from Abu Ziyad Al-Nahdi, from Abdullah ibn Wahb, from Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, who said: "It is sufficient as a form of support from Allah سبحانه وتعالى for the believer, that he sees his enemy engaging in acts of disobedience to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic."

Ibn Abi Umayr narrated from Mu'awiyah ibn Wahb, from Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, peace be upon him, who said: "Be patient with those who are envious of your blessings, for you cannot repay one who disobeys Allah سبحانه وتعالى regarding you with anything better than obeying Allah سبحانه وتعالى concerning him."

Al-Mualla ibn Muhammad Al-Basri narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Abdullah, from Amr ibn Ziyad, from Mudrik ibn Abd Al-Rahman, from Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, peace be upon him, who said: "On the Day of Judgment, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, will gather all people on one plain ground, and the scales will be set. The blood of the martyrs will be weighed against the ink of the scholars, and the ink of the scholars will outweigh the blood of the martyrs."

Muhammad ibn Abi Umayr narrated from Abdullah ibn Al-Qasim, from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام from his father, Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, from his grandfather Imam Hussain ibn Ali عليه السلام, from Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام, who said: "Be more hopeful for what you do not expect than for what you expect. For indeed, Musa ibn Imran عليه السلام, peace be upon him, went out to bring fire for his family and returned as a prophet after Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, spoke to him. The Queen of Sheba went out and embraced Islam with Prophet Sulayman, peace be upon him. And the magicians of Pharaoh went out seeking honor for Pharaoh but returned as believers."

Abdullah ibn Abbas narrated from the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "The nobles of my nation are the bearers of the Qur'an and those who engage in prayer during the night."

Jibr'il (Gabriel), peace be upon him, descended upon the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, and the Prophet said to him: "O' Jibr'il, advise me." Jibr'il said to him: "O' Muhammad صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم, live as you wish, for you will surely die. Love whomever you wish, for you will surely part from them. Do whatever you wish, for you will surely be recompensed for it. The honor of a believer lies in his prayer during the night, and his dignity is in refraining from harming others."

Al-Hasan ibn Musa Al-Khashshab narrated from Ghiyath ibn Kallub, from Ishaq ibn Ammar, from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, from his forefathers, peace be upon them, that Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام, peace be upon him, used to say: "There is no one afflicted with a trial, no matter how great his affliction, who is more deserving of supplication than the one who is in well-being and does not feel secure from tribulation."

Ali ibn Mahziyar narrated from Al-Husayn ibn Said, from Al-Harith ibn Muhammad ibn Al-Numan Al-Ahwal, known as Sahib Al-Taq, from Jamil ibn Salih, from Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, from his forefathers, peace be upon them, who said that the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, said: "Whoever wishes to be the most honored among people should fear Allah سبحانه وتعالى. Whoever wishes to be the most pious among people should place his trust in Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Exalted. And whoever wishes to be the richest among people should have more trust in what is with Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, than in what is in his own hands." Then Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم, peace be upon him, said: "Shall I inform you of the worst of people?" They replied: "Yes, O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى." Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "The one who hates people and whom people hate." Then Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "Shall I inform you of someone worse than that?" They said: "Yes, O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى." Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "The one who does not forgive a slip, does not accept an excuse, and does not pardon a sin." Then Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "Shall I inform you of someone even worse than that?" They said: "Yes, O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى." Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "The one whose harm is not safe from and whose goodness is not hoped for. Indeed, Isa (Jesus) عليه السلام, the son of Mary صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم, peace be upon him, stood among the Children of Israel and said: 'O' Children of Israel, do not speak wisdom to the ignorant lest you wrong it, and do not withhold it from its rightful people lest you wrong them. Do not support the oppressor in his oppression, or your virtue will be nullified. Matters are of three kinds: A matter whose guidance is clear to you, so follow it. A matter whose misguidance is clear to you, so avoid it. And a matter in which there is disagreement, so refer it back to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic.'"

Al-Hasan ibn Ali ibn Faddal narrated from Al-Hasan ibn Al-Jahm, from Al-Fudayl ibn Yasar, who said that Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "The body does not become weak in pursuing what the intention has been strengthened for."

Ibn Faddal narrated from Ghalib ibn Uthman, from Shuayb Al-Aqarqufi, from Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, peace be upon him, who said: "Whoever controls himself in moments of desire, fear, craving, anger, and satisfaction, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will make his body forbidden to the Fire."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, peace be upon him, was asked about the one who is ascetic in this world. Imam عليه السلام said: "The one who abandons what is lawful out of fear of its reckoning and abandons what is unlawful out of fear of its punishment."

Muhammad ibn Sinan narrated from Abdullah ibn Muskan, from Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, peace be upon him, who said: "Indeed, the people most deserving to wish for others to be wealthy are the misers because if people become self-sufficient, they will refrain from seeking their wealth. And the people most deserving to wish for others to be righteous are those with flaws because if people become righteous, they will stop pursuing their faults. And the people most deserving to wish for others to be forbearing are the foolish, for they need others to pardon their foolishness. Yet, the misers wish for people to be poor, the flawed wish for others to have faults, and the foolish wish for others to be foolish. In poverty lies the need for the miser, in corruption lies the exposure of the flawed, and in foolishness lies the reciprocation of sins."

It is narrated from Abu Hashim Al-Jafari that he said: "I was afflicted with severe hardship, so I went to Abu Al-Hasan Imam Ali ibn Muhammad Al-Hadi عليه السلام, peace be upon him. I sought permission to enter, and he granted me permission. When I sat down, Imam عليه السلام said: 'O' Abu Hashim, which of Allah's سبحانه وتعالى blessings upon you do you wish to fulfill its gratitude?' Abu Hashim said: I was speechless and did not know what to say. Then Imam عليه السلام, peace be upon him, initiated the conversation and said: 'Indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, has granted you faith, by which He سبحانه وتعالى has made your body forbidden to the Fire. He سبحانه وتعالى has granted you well-being, enabling you to obey Him سبحانه وتعالى. He سبحانه وتعالى has granted you contentment, protecting you from disgrace. O' Abu Hashim, I began with this because I thought you were about to complain to me about who has caused this hardship to you. I have ordered for you one hundred dinars, so take them.'"

Muhammad ibn Sinan narrated from Talhah ibn Zayd, who said: "I heard Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, peace be upon him, say: 'One who acts without insight is like a traveler walking off the path. The faster he moves, the farther he becomes from the correct way.'"

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, peace be upon him, said: "Sleep is rest for the body, speech is rest for the soul, and silence is rest for the mind."

Muhammad ibn Sinan narrated from Al-Mufaddal ibn Umar, who said that Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, peace be upon him, said: "Whoever does not have an inner advisor from his heart, a restrainer from his own soul, and a guiding companion, his enemy will easily gain control over him."

Ja'far ibn Muhammad ibn Malik Al-Fazari Al-Kufi narrated from Ja'far ibn Muhammad ibn Sahl, from Said ibn Muhammad, from Masadah, who said that Abu Al-Hasan Imam Musa ibn Jafar Al-Kadhim عليه السلام, peace be upon them, said: "Indeed, a man's family are his captives. So whoever Allah سبحانه وتعالى blesses with a bounty should expand that blessing upon his family. If he does not, that blessing is at risk of disappearing."

Safwan ibn Yahya narrated from Abu Al-Sabbah Al-Kinani, who said: I asked Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام: "Inform me about this statement, whose words are: 'I ask Allah سبحانه وتعالى for faith and piety, and I seek refuge in Allah سبحانه وتعالى from the evil consequences of matters. Indeed, the most honorable speech is the remembrance of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Exalted, and the pinnacle of wisdom is obedience to Him. The most truthful speech, the most eloquent admonition, and the best of stories are found in the Book of Allah سبحانه وتعالى. The firmest bond is faith in Allah سبحانه وتعالى. The best of religions is the religion of Ibrahim, peace be upon him. The best of traditions is the tradition of the prophets. The best of guidance is the guidance of Muhammad صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم. The best provision is piety. The best knowledge is that which benefits. The best guidance is that which is followed. The best wealth is the wealth of the soul. The best thing placed in the heart is certainty. The adornment of speech is truthfulness. The adornment of knowledge is benevolence. The most honorable death is martyrdom. The best of matters are those with favorable outcomes. That which is little and sufficient is better than that which is abundant and distracting. The truly unfortunate is the one who is doomed while still in his mother's womb. The truly fortunate is the one who takes heed from others. The wisest of the wise is the one who fears Allah سبحانه وتعالى. The most foolish of the foolish is the one who engages in wickedness. The worst of narrations is falsehood. The worst of matters are their innovations. The worst blindness is the blindness of the heart. The worst regret is regret on the Day of Judgment. The greatest sinner in the sight of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Exalted, is the lying tongue. The worst earnings are those acquired through usury. The worst food is that which is acquired through unlawfully consuming the orphan's wealth. The best adornment of a man is calmness with faith. Whoever pursues scandal, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will expose him. Whoever accepts trials will endure them, and whoever does not recognize them will reject them. Doubt is disbelief. Whoever is arrogant, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will humble him. Whoever obeys Satan disobeys Allah سبحانه وتعالى. Whoever disobeys Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will punish him. Whoever gives thanks to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, He will increase him. Whoever is patient in adversity, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will relieve him. Whoever relies on Allah سبحانه وتعالى, He will suffice him. Whoever entrusts himself to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, He will reward him. Do not incur Allah's سبحانه وتعالى wrath by seeking the approval of His سبحانه وتعالى creation. Do not seek nearness to creation by distancing yourself from Allah سبحانه وتعالى. Indeed, there is nothing between Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Exalted, and His creation that can grant them goodness or protect them from harm except obedience to Him and seeking His pleasure. The obedience of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Blessed and Exalted, is the key to every good that is sought and the means to salvation from every evil that is feared. Indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Exalted, safeguards those who obey Him, but those who disobey Him will find no protection from Him. No one can escape from Allah سبحانه وتعالى, for His command is inevitable, even if creation dislikes it. Everything that is coming is near, and whatever Allah سبحانه وتعالى wills will be, and whatever He does not will shall never be. Cooperate in righteousness and piety, and do not cooperate in sin and transgression. Fear Allah سبحانه وتعالى; indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى is severe in punishment.'" Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "This is the statement of Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, blessings be upon him and his family."

Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, said: "Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Glorified and Exalted, said: 'Whoever of My سبحانه وتعالى servants obeys Me سبحانه وتعالى, I will not entrust him to anyone other than Myself سبحانه وتعالى. And whoever disobeys Me سبحانه وتعالى, I will leave him to himself, and I will not care in which valley he perishes.'"

Muhammad ibn Abi Umayr narrated from Isa Al-Farra', from Abdullah ibn Abi Yafur, who said: "I heard Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, say that Abu Jafar Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, said: 'Whoever's outward appearance outweighs his inward self, his scale (of deeds) will be light.'"

Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, said: "Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, said: 'When someone among My سبحانه وتعالى creation who knows Me سبحانه وتعالى proceeds to disobey Me سبحانه وتعالى, I will set over him from My سبحانه وتعالى creation one who does not know Me سبحانه وتعالى.'"

Ibn Abi Umayr narrated from Ishaq ibn Ammar, who said that Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, peace be upon him, said: "O' Ishaq, be courteous to the hypocrite with your speech, but keep your sincere affection for the believer. And if a Jew sits with you, then treat him with good companionship."

Al-Mufaddal ibn Umar narrated from Imam Ja'far ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq, from his father Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, from his grandfather Imam Hussain ibn Ali عليه السلام, peace be upon them, who said: "It was said to Imam Hussain ibn Ali عليه السلام: "How did you wake up this morning, O' son of the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى?" Imam عليه السلام replied: "I woke up with my Lord عز وجل above me, the Hellfire before me, death pursuing me, and the reckoning encircling me. I am held accountable by my own deeds. I do not attain what I desire, nor can I repel what I dislike. All matters are in the hands of someone other than myself. If He سبحانه وتعالى wills, He سبحانه وتعالى will punish me, and if He سبحانه وتعالى wills, He سبحانه وتعالى will forgive me. So, who is poorer than me?"

Al-Mufaddal narrated from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, that he said: "A dispute occurred between Salman Al-Farsi, may Allah سبحانه وتعالى have mercy on him, and a man. The man said to Salman: 'Who are you, and what are you?' Salman replied: 'As for my beginning and yours, it is a unclean drop of fluid, and as for my end and yours, it is a decaying corpse. But on the Day of Judgment, when the scales are set up, whoever's scales are heavy, he is the honorable one, and whoever's scales are light, he is the disgraceful one.'"

Al-Mufaddal said: I heard Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, say: "The trial of the people concerning us is severe. If we call them, they do not respond to us, and if we leave them, they will not find guidance without us."

Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام said: "All goodness has been gathered in three qualities: looking, silence, and speech. Every glance that lacks reflection is heedlessness, every speech without the remembrance (of Allah سبحانه وتعالى) is idle talk, and every silence without contemplation is neglect. Glad tidings are for the one whose gaze is reflective, whose silence is thoughtful, whose speech is in remembrance, who weeps over his sins, and from whose harm people are safe."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty, revealed to Adam, peace be upon him: 'O' Adam, I have gathered all goodness for you in four words: one is for Me سبحانه وتعالى, one is for you, one is between Me سبحانه وتعالى and you, and one is between you and the people. As for the one for Me سبحانه وتعالى, worship Me سبحانه وتعالى and do not associate anything with Me سبحانه وتعالى. As for the one for you, I will reward you for your deeds when you are in most need of it. As for the one between Me سبحانه وتعالى and you, it is upon you to supplicate and upon Me سبحانه وتعالى to answer. And as for the one between you and the people, be pleased for them with what you are pleased for yourself.'"

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, said: "Well-being is a hidden blessing. When it is present, it is forgotten, and when it is lost, it is remembered."

Al-Sakuni narrated from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام from his father, Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, from his forefathers, peace be upon them, that the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, said: "Two words are strange, so bear them patiently: A word of wisdom from a foolish person - accept it; and a foolish word from a wise person - forgive it."

Amr ibn Shimr narrated from Jabir ibn Yazid Al-Ju'fi from Abu Jafar Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام from his father from his grandfather, peace be upon them, that Commander of the Faithful, peace be upon him, said in a sermon he delivered after the death of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him and his family: "O' people, there is no honor higher than Islam, No dignity more precious than piety, No fortress more secure than restraint, No intercessor more successful than repentance, No treasure more beneficial than knowledge, No dignity more elevated than forbearance, No lineage more effective than good manners, No burden heavier than anger, No beauty more adorned than intellect, No disgrace worse than lying, No guard more vigilant than silence, No attire more beautiful than well-being, And no absent thing closer than death. O' people, whoever walks on the surface of the earth will eventually end up in its depths. The night and day hasten in demolishing the lifespan, and for every living soul, there is sustenance; for every grain, there is a consumer; and you are the sustenance of death. Whoever understands the nature of time will not neglect to prepare. Neither the wealthy due to their wealth nor the poor due to their lack will escape death. O' people, whoever fears his Lord عز وجل will restrain his oppression. Whoever does not guard his speech reveals his foolishness. Whoever does not distinguish between good and evil is like the cattle. How insignificant is affliction compared to the great deprivation that awaits tomorrow! Alas! The only reason you have become estranged from each other is due to your sins and transgressions. How near is relief after hardship, and distress after prosperity! No evil is truly evil if followed by Paradise, and no good is truly good if followed by Hellfire. Every comfort short of Paradise is insignificant, and every trial short of Hellfire is safety.

In the narration of Ismail ibn Muslim, the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى (peace be upon him and his family) said: "Three things I fear for my nation after me: deviation after guidance, misleading temptations, and the desires of the stomach and the private parts."

The Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى (peace be upon him and his family) passed by a group of people lifting a stone and said: "What is this and what drives you to do it?" They replied: "So we may know who among us is the strongest and most powerful." Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "Shall I not guide you to the strongest and mightiest among you?" They said: "Yes, O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى." Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "The strongest and mightiest among you is the one who, when pleased, is not led by his pleasure into sin or falsehood, and when angry, his anger does not drive him away from speaking the truth, and when he possesses power, he does not take what is not rightfully his." In another narration, Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم added: "And when he has authority, he does not claim what is not his by right."

Al-Hasan ibn Mahbub narrated from Abu Walad Al-Hannat that he asked Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام about the saying of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Exalted: "And be good to parents." He asked: "What is this goodness (ihsan)?" Imam عليه السلام replied: "Goodness is to treat them well in companionship and not to burden them to ask you for anything they need, even if they are self-sufficient. Indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Exalted, says: 'You will never attain righteousness until you spend out of what you love.'" (Surah AAl-E-Imran 3:92) Then Imam عليه السلام said: "If one or both of them reach old age in your care, do not say to them 'uff' (a word of annoyance) if they irritate you, and do not repel them if they strike you, but speak to them noble words." The noble words mean that you say to them, 'May Allah سبحانه وتعالى forgive you both.' That is noble speech from you. "And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy." This means that you should not fix your eyes on them with sharpness but look at them with mercy and compassion. Do not raise your voice above theirs, nor your hand above theirs, and do not walk ahead of them."

Al-Hasan ibn Mahbub narrated from Malik ibn Atiyyah, from Aidh Al-Ahmasi, from Abu Hamzah Al-Thumali, who said that Zayn Al-Abidin Imam Ali ibn Al-Hussain عليه السلام said: "Behold, the most beloved of you to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, is the one with the best deeds. Indeed, the greatest among you in reward with Allah سبحانه وتعالى is the one with the greatest desire for what is with Allah سبحانه وتعالى. The safest of people from Allah's سبحانه وتعالى punishment is the one who fears Allah سبحانه وتعالى the most. The closest of you to Allah سبحانه وتعالى is the one with the most expansive and noble character. The most pleasing to Allah سبحانه وتعالى among you is the one who is most generous toward his family. Indeed, the most honored of you in the sight of Allah سبحانه وتعالى is the most God-conscious among you."

Al-Hasan ibn Mahbub narrated from Sa'd ibn Abi Khalaf, from Abu Al-Hasan Imam Musa ibn Jafar Al-Kadhim عليه السلام that Imam عليه السلام said to one of his sons: "My son, beware that Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, sees you committing a sin He سبحانه وتعالى has forbidden you from. And beware that Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Exalted, does not find you present in an act of obedience that He سبحانه وتعالى has commanded you to perform. Be diligent and do not excuse yourself from shortcomings in worship of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, for Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, is never worshipped as He سبحانه وتعالى truly deserves. Avoid excessive joking, for it extinguishes the light of your faith and diminishes your dignity. Also, beware of laziness and boredom, for they will deprive you of your share in this world and the Hereafter."

Ali ibn Al-Hakam narrated from Hisham ibn Salim, from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام, who said: "The world is both a seeker and one being sought. Whoever seeks the world, death will pursue him until it removes him from it. And whoever seeks Hereafter, the world will pursue him until it delivers his sustenance to him."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "Sufficient is it for a believer as support from Allah سبحانه وتعالى to see his enemy engaging in acts of disobedience to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic."

The Prophet of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace be upon him and his family, said: "Hasten towards the gardens of Paradise." They asked: "O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, what are the gardens of Paradise?" Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم replied: "The gatherings of remembrance (of Allah سبحانه وتعالى)."

Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام narrated that the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace be upon him and his family, said to him: "O' Ali عليه السلام, do not consult a coward, for he will restrict you from finding a solution. Do not consult a miser, for he will hinder you from reaching your goal. And do not consult a greedy person, for he will make greed seem appealing to you. Know that cowardice, miserliness, and greed are innate traits that are all rooted in having a bad opinion (of Allah سبحانه وتعالى)."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "Whoever Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty and Majestic, brings out from the humiliation of sins to the honor of piety, Allah سبحانه وتعالى enriches him without wealth, honors him without a tribe, and comforts him without a companion. Whoever fears Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will make everything fear him, and whoever does not fear Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will make him fear everything. Whoever is content with the little provision Allah سبحانه وتعالى gives him, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will be pleased with his little deeds. Whoever is not ashamed to seek his livelihood, his burdens will be lightened, and his family will be blessed. And whoever renounces the world, Allah سبحانه وتعالى will instill wisdom in his heart, make it flow from his tongue, show him the flaws of the world - its sickness and its cure - and will take him safely from this world to the abode of peace."

Abu Hamza Al-Thumali narrated that Abu Jafar Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام said: "When death approached my father عليه السلام, he embraced me to his chest and said: 'O' my son, be patient upon the truth even if it is bitter, for your reward will be given to you without measure.'"

Ibn Muskan narrated from Abdullah ibn Abi Ya'fur that Ja'far ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said to a man: "Make your heart a companion you engage with, make your knowledge a guide you follow, make your soul an enemy you struggle against, and consider your wealth as a loan that you will return."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "Struggle against your desires just as you struggle against your enemy."

Al-Hasan ibn Rashid narrated from Abu Hamza Al-Thumali, from Abu Jafar Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, who said: 'A man came to the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, and said: "Teach me something, O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى." Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "You must renounce what is in the hands of people, for it is immediate wealth." The man said: "Increase me (in knowledge), O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى." Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "Beware of greed, for it is present poverty." The man said: "Increase me (in knowledge), O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى." Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "When you intend to undertake something, consider its consequences. If it is good or leads to guidance, follow it; and if it is evil or leads to misguidance, abandon it."

Al-Husayn ibn Yazid narrated from Ali ibn Ghurab who said: Abu Abdullah عليه السلام, said: "Whoever commits a sin in private and then fears Allah سبحانه وتعالى, exalted be His سبحانه وتعالى mention, regarding it, and feels ashamed before the recording angels; Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Majestic, will forgive all his sins, even if they are as numerous as the sins of the two weighty beings (humankind and jinn)."

Al-Abbas ibn Bakkar Al-Dabbi narrated, saying: Muhammad ibn Sulayman Al-Kufi Al-Bazzaz narrated to us, saying: Amr ibn Khalid narrated from Zayd ibn Ali, from his father Imam Ali ibn Al-Hussain عليه السلام, from his father Imam Hussain ibn Ali عليه السلام, from his father Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام, peace be upon him, who said: "Whoever dies on Thursday after the sun has passed its zenith until the time of the sun's zenith on Friday, and was a believer, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Majestic, will protect him from the squeezing of the grave and accept his intercession for people as numerous as the tribes of Rabiah and Mudar. Whoever dies on Saturday from among the believers, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty and Majestic, will never gather him with the Jews in the Fire. Whoever dies on Sunday from among the believers, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty and Majestic, will never gather him with the Christians in the Fire. Whoever dies on Monday from among the believers, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty and Majestic, will never gather him with our enemies from Banu Umayyah in the Fire. Whoever dies on Tuesday from among the believers, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty and Majestic, will gather him with us in the highest companionship. Whoever dies on Wednesday from among the believers, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty and Majestic, will protect him from the misfortune of the Day of Judgment, bless him with His سبحانه وتعالى nearness, and place him in the abode of permanence by His سبحانه وتعالى grace, where no fatigue shall touch him, nor shall any exhaustion afflict him." Then Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام said: "The believer, in whatever state he dies and at whatever day or hour he passes away, is a truthful martyr. And indeed, I heard my beloved, the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, say: 'If a believer were to leave this world carrying sins equal to those of the people of the earth, death would be an expiation for those sins.'" Then Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام said: "Whoever says 'There is no God but Allah سبحانه وتعالى' with sincerity is free from polytheism, and whoever leaves this world without associating anything with Allah سبحانه وتعالى shall enter Paradise." Then Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام recited this verse: 'Indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى does not forgive associating partners with Him سبحانه وتعالى, but He سبحانه وتعالى forgives anything less than that for whom He سبحانه وتعالى wills - from among your followers and those who love you, O' Ali عليه السلام." (Surah An-Nisa 4:48) and (Surah An-Nisa 4:116) Then Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام said: "I asked: 'O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, is this for my followers?' Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "Yes, by my Lord عز وجل, it is for your followers (O' Ali عليه السلام). And indeed, they shall rise on the Day of Judgment from their graves saying: 'There is no God but Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Muhammad صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم is the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام is the proof of Allah سبحانه وتعالى'. They will be given green garments from Paradise, crowns from Paradise, and tiaras from Paradise. Each one of them will wear a green garment, and the crown of sovereignty and the wreath of honor will be placed on his head. Then they will mount noble steeds from Paradise, and these will take them flying to Paradise.' They will not be grieved by the greatest terrors, and the angels will receive them, saying: 'This is your Day which you were promised.'"

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام was asked: "What is the definition of good character?" Imam عليه السلام replied: "It is to be gentle in your behaviour, speak kindly, and meet your brother with a cheerful face."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام was asked: "What is the definition of generosity?" Imam عليه السلام replied: "It is to give from your wealth the rightful dues that Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty, has obligated upon you, and to place it in its appropriate place."

Yaqub ibn Yazid narrated from Ahmad ibn Al-Hasan Al-Mithami, from Al-Husayn ibn Abi Hamzah, who said: I heard Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام say: "Spend (in the way of Allah سبحانه وتعالى) and be certain of the replacement. Know that whoever does not spend in obedience to Allah سبحانه وتعالى will be tested by spending in disobedience to Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty. And whoever does not walk to fulfill the need of a friend of Allah سبحانه وتعالى will be tested by walking to fulfill the need of an enemy of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty."

Ahmad ibn Ishaq ibn Saʿd narrated from Abdullah ibn Maymun, from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام from his father, Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Baqir عليه السلام, who said: Al-Fadl ibn Al-Abbas said: A mule was gifted to the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) by Kisra (the Persian emperor) or Qayṣar (the Roman emperor). The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) rode it with a saddle made of hair and had me ride behind him. Then, the Prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said to me: "O' boy, safeguard Allah سبحانه وتعالى, and He سبحانه وتعالى will safeguard you. Safeguard Allah سبحانه وتعالى, and you will find Him سبحانه وتعالى before you. Recognize Allah سبحانه وتعالى in times of ease, and He سبحانه وتعالى will recognize you in times of hardship. When you ask, ask Allah سبحانه وتعالى, and when you seek help, seek help from Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic. Indeed, the pen has already written what is to occur. So, if all people strive to benefit you with something that Allah سبحانه وتعالى has not decreed for you, they will never be able to do so. And if they strive to harm you with something that Allah سبحانه وتعالى has not decreed against you, they will never be able to harm you. If you are able to act with patience along with certainty, then do so. If you are unable, then be patient, for in patience over what you dislike is much good. Know that victory comes with patience, relief comes with distress, and with hardship comes ease. Indeed, with hardship comes ease."

Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Kufi narrated from Isma'il ibn Mihran, from Murazim, from Jabir ibn Yazid, from Jabir ibn Abdullah Al-Ansari, who said that the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, said: "When the child is in the womb of his mother, if it is a male, his face is turned towards the back of his mother, and if it is a female, her face is turned towards the belly of her mother. His hands are placed on his cheeks, and his chin is on his knees, in the position of one who is sorrowful and worried. He is like a tightly bound entity, connected by an umbilical cord from his navel to the navel of his mother. Through this umbilical cord, he receives nourishment from his mother's food and drink until the appointed time of his birth. Then Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty and Majestic, sends an angel who writes on his forehead whether he will be wretched or happy (person), a believer or a disbeliever, rich or poor. The angel also writes his lifespan, his sustenance, his illnesses, and his health. When the sustenance decreed for his through its mother's umbilical cord is cut off, the angel gives his a nudge, and he turns, startled by the nudge, causing his head to face the exit. When he is born onto the earth, he is met with great fear and intense torment. If he is struck by a breeze or touched by a hand, he feels pain similar to that of someone whose skin has been peeled off. He experiences hunger but cannot seek food, and he feels thirst but cannot request water, and he suffers pain but cannot cry out for help. So Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Blessed and Exalted, entrusts his mother with mercy, compassion, and love for him, such that she shields him from heat and cold with her own self, and she is almost willing to sacrifice her life for him. She becomes so affectionate towards him that she does not mind going hungry if he is full, or being thirsty if he is quenched, or being unclothed if he is clothed. Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Exalted is His remembrance, has placed his sustenance in his mother's breasts - one providing his drink and the other his food. When he nurses, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty and Majestic, grants him daily the sustenance that has been decreed for him. When he grows up, Allah سبحانه وتعالى grants him understanding of family, wealth, desire, and greed. Despite all this, he is exposed to afflictions, ailments, and tribulations from all directions. The angels guide him and direct him, while the devils mislead him and lead him astray. He is doomed unless Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty and Majestic, saves him. And Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Exalted is His سبحانه وتعالى remembrance, has mentioned the reality of mankind in His clear Book, saying: "And indeed, We سبحانه وتعالى created man from an extract of clay. Then We سبحانه وتعالى placed him as a drop of fluid in a firm lodging. Then We سبحانه وتعالى created the drop into a clinging clot, and We سبحانه وتعالى created the clot into a lump, and We سبحانه وتعالى created the lump into bones, and We سبحانه وتعالى clothed the bones with flesh; then We سبحانه وتعالى developed him into another creation. So blessed is Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the best of creators. Then indeed, after that, you will surely die. Then indeed, on the Day of Resurrection, you will be resurrected." (Surah Al-Mu'minun 23:12-16) Jabir ibn Abdullah Al-Ansari said: I asked: "O' Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, this is our condition, but how is your condition and the condition of the successors after you in birth?" The Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, remained silent for a long while. Then the prophet صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم said: "O' Jabir, you have asked about a great matter which none can bear except one who has been granted great wisdom. Indeed, the prophets and the successors are created from the light of the greatness of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Glorified be His سبحانه وتعالى praise. Allah سبحانه وتعالى places their lights in pure loins and immaculate wombs, protecting them with His سبحانه وتعالى angels, nurturing them with His سبحانه وتعالى wisdom, and sustaining them with His سبحانه وتعالى knowledge. Their matter is too great to be described, and their conditions are too subtle to be comprehended, for they are the stars of Allah سبحانه وتعالى on His سبحانه وتعالى earth, His سبحانه وتعالى signs among His سبحانه وتعالى creation, His سبحانه وتعالى successors over His سبحانه وتعالى servants (people), His سبحانه وتعالى lights in His سبحانه وتعالى lands, and His سبحانه وتعالى proofs over His سبحانه وتعالى creation. O' Jabir, this is part of the concealed and stored knowledge, so conceal it except from those who are worthy of it."

Al-Mufaddal ibn Umar narrated from Thabit Al-Thumali from Hababah Al-Walibiyyah (may Allah سبحانه وتعالى be pleased with her) who said: "I heard my master, the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام, say: 'Indeed, we are the Ahlul Bayt who do not drink intoxicants, do not eat catfish, and do not wipe over leather socks (in ablution). So whoever is from our Shia should follow our example and adhere to our Sunnah.'"

Hammad ibn Uthman narrated from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام who said: "In the wisdom of the family of Dawud عليه السلام, it is fitting for a wise person to be focused on his own affairs, to safeguard his tongue, and to be aware of the people of his time."

Safwan ibn Yahya and Muhammad ibn Abi Umayr narrated from Musa ibn Bakr, from Zurara, who reported from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام that he said: "A favor is only truly a favor when it is done for someone with noble lineage or faith. Prayer is the means of closeness for every pious person. Hajj is the jihad for every weak individual. Everything has a form of charity, and the charity of the body is fasting. A woman's jihad is being a good wife. Seek sustenance through charity. Whoever is certain of divine compensation will be generous in giving. Indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Blessed and Exalted, sends down assistance according to the burden. Safeguard your wealth through zakat. Moderation is half of livelihood. No person who is moderate will face poverty. Having fewer dependents is one of the two forms of ease. One who prays without action is like an archer without a bowstring. Affection is half of intelligence. Anxiety is half of aging. Indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Blessed and Exalted, sends down patience in proportion to the calamity. Whoever strikes his hand on his thigh during a calamity, his reward is nullified. Whoever grieves his parents has been disobedient to them."

Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "Indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Blessed and Exalted, has distributed your manners among you just as He سبحانه وتعالى has distributed your sustenance among you."

It is narrated from Abu Jameelah Al-Mufaddal ibn Salih, from Sa'd ibn Tarif, from Al-Asbagh ibn Nubata, from Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام who said: "Jibril عليه السلام descended upon Adam عليه السلام and said: 'O' Adam, I have been commanded to offer you a choice among three things, so choose one and leave the other two.' Adam عليه السلام asked: 'What are those three things?' Jibril عليه السلام replied: 'Intellect, modesty, and religion.' Adam عليه السلام said: 'I choose intellect.' So Jibril عليه السلام said to modesty and religion: 'Depart from him.' They both replied: 'O' Jibril, we have been commanded to remain with intellect wherever it is.' Jibril عليه السلام said: 'Then it is your affair,' and he ascended."

It is narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Isa, from Ali ibn Ismail, from Abdullah ibn Al-Waleed, from Abu Basir, from Abu Abdullah Al-Sadiq Ja'far ibn Muhammad عليه السلام, who said: "Four things are wasted in vain: Affection granted to one who has no loyalty, A favor bestowed upon one who does not appreciate it, Knowledge taught to one who does not listen, And a secret entrusted to one who has no sense of safeguarding."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "Indeed, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Blessed and Exalted, has lands called Al-Muntaqimah (The Avenger). When Allah سبحانه وتعالى grants a servant wealth and he does not give Allah's سبحانه وتعالى rightful due from it, Allah سبحانه وتعالى assigns to him a portion of those lands where his wealth is wasted, and then he dies, leaving it behind."

Abu Abdullah Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام said: "Whoever does not care about what he says and what is said about him, this is the partnership of Satan. Whoever does not care if people see him committing wrong, this is the partnership of Satan. Whoever backbites his believing brother without any grievance between them, this is the partnership of Satan. And whoever becomes infatuated with the love of the forbidden and the desire for adultery, this is the partnership of Satan." Then Imam عليه السلام said: "A child born of adultery has certain signs: the first is hatred for us, the Ahlulbayt; the second is an inclination toward the forbidden from which he was created; the third is making light of religion; and the fourth is behaving badly in gatherings with people. No one treats his brothers poorly in gatherings except someone born out of wedlock or whose mother conceived him during her menstruation."

Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib عليه السلام said: "Whoever is content with what suffices him from this world, the least of what is in it will be enough for him. And whoever is not content with what suffices him from this world, nothing in it will ever be enough for him."

Ishaq ibn Ammar narrated from Imam Jafar ibn Muhammad Al-Sadiq عليه السلام that he said: "Assistance descends from the heavens in proportion to responsibility."

Al-Hasan ibn Ali ibn Faddal narrated from Maysar that Abu Abdullah Imam Al-Sadiq Ja'far ibn Muhammad عليه السلام said: "Indeed, among what was revealed in the divine revelation from the heavens is that if the son of Adam had two flowing valleys of gold and silver, he would still seek a third. O' son of Adam! Your stomach is but an ocean among oceans and a valley among valleys; nothing will fill it except dust."

The Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى (peace be upon him and his family) said: "Insulting a believer is an act of disobedience, fighting him (a believer) is disbelief, consuming his flesh (backbiting) is a sin against Allah سبحانه وتعالى the Exalted, and the sanctity of his wealth is like the sanctity of his blood."

Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Sa'id Al-Kufi reported, saying: Ali ibn Al-Hasan ibn Faddal narrated from his father, from Abu Al-Hasan Imam Ali ibn Musa Ar-Ridha عليه السلام, who said: "The Imam has (various divinely appointed) signs: He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will be the most knowledgeable of people, the most wise of people, the most God-fearing of people, the most patient of people, the most courageous of people, the most generous of people, and the most devoted in worship among people. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will be born circumcised and purified, and he will see from behind him as he sees from in front of him. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will have no shadow, and when he falls to the ground from his mother's womb, he will land on his palms, raising his voice with the two testimonies. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will not experience nocturnal emissions (during sleep), his eyes will sleep, but his heart will not sleep. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will be divinely inspired, and the armor of the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, will fit him perfectly. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will not be seen urinating or defecating, because Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Almighty, has commanded the earth to absorb whatever comes out of him (regarding defecation). His, (The Imam عليه السلام) fragrance will be sweeter than musk. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will be more entitled to people than they are to themselves and more compassionate towards them than their own fathers and mothers. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will be the most humble of people before Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Glorified. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will adhere most to what he commands and most refrain from what he forbids. His, (The Imam عليه السلام) supplication will be answered, to the extent that if he were to pray against a rock, it would split in two. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will have the weapon of the Messenger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, peace and blessings be upon him and his family, and his sword, Dhul-Fiqar. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will have a scroll that contains the names of his followers until the Day of Judgment, and a scroll that contains the names of his enemies until the Day of Judgment. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will possess "Al-Jami'a," a scroll seventy cubits long containing everything that the children of Adam need. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will also have "Al-Jafr," the greater and the lesser, which are two containers made of the skin of a goat and a ram, containing all knowledge, even the compensation for a scratch, and matters as specific as a complete skin, half a skin, and a third of a skin. He, (The Imam عليه السلام) will have the Mushaf of (Sayyidah) Fatimah صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم, peace be upon her.

And it was narrated to us by Abdul-Wahid ibn Muhammad ibn Abdus Al-Naysaburi, may Allah سبحانه وتعالى be pleased with him, who said: Ali ibn Muhammad ibn Qutaybah narrated to us from Al-Fadl ibn Shadhan, who said: I heard Imam Ali ibn Musa Ar-Ridha عليه السلام, say: "'When the head of Imam Hussain ibn Ali عليه السلام, peace be upon him, was taken to Sham, Yazid - may Allah سبحانه وتعالى curse him - ordered that it be placed and a table was set upon it. He (Yazid) and his companions came forward, eating and drinking fermented beverages. When they finished, he ordered the head to be placed in a basin under his couch, and a chessboard was spread over it. Then Yazid - may Allah سبحانه وتعالى curse him - sat playing chess while mentioning Imam Hussain ibn Ali عليه السلام and his father عليه السلام and grandfather صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم, peace be upon them, mocking their remembrance. Whenever he gambled with his companion, he would take the fermented beverage and drink it three times, then pour the remainder onto the ground near the basin.' Imam عليه السلام continued: 'Whoever is from our Shia should abstain from drinking fermented beverages and playing chess. And whoever looks at fermented beverages or at chess should remember Imam Hussain ibn Ali عليه السلام, and curse Yazid and the family of Ziyad. By doing so, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, the Mighty and Majestic, will erase his sins, even if they are as numerous as the stars.

Imam Ali ibn Musa Ar-Ridha عليه السلام said: "Whoever begins his day in good health, secure in his surroundings, and has the sustenance for his day, it is as if the entire world has been gathered for him."