Human justice presents itself at the two levels, individual and community: being just to a human on the individual level, and being just on the level of the government, which is known as the social justice. Both of these were prominent during the lifetime of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib – Peace be upon him. We should practice these, particularly those who bear responsibilities in the society and have particular status in the governmental realm.
With the Commander of the Faithful – Peace be upon him, individual justice reached its highest levels, which is described as piety. This piety was presented in his political practice, his military action, the treasury splitting, the use of life gains, the expense of the treasury of the Muslims, his judgement, and all his matters. The personal and psychological justice in every individual is a support for the community justice and an influential field of justice in the social life. One cannot claim that he is able to practice justice in the society while lacking piety within himself and his personal actions, and obsessed with temptations and captivated with evil. This is not possible. Anyone who wants to create equity in the environment should first possess divine piety. Righteousness – in the same meaning explained in the beginning of the sermon – is to watch out not to do wrong. Of course, this does not mean that the individual will not do wrong. No. In the end, an infallible human makes mistakes; however, this vigilance is a right path and a salvation. It prevents the drowning of the individual and offers him power. One who does not guard himself and practices injustice and depravity in his words, actions and personal life cannot be a source of social justice in the community. In this sense, the Commander of the Faithful – peace be upon him – declared his eternal lesson to all those who play a role in the political matters of the society. “Whoever places himself as a leader of the people should commence with educating his own self before educating others”. Whoever places himself in the rank of presidency, Imamate, and guardian of the society – in any area, should first start with educating and disciplining himself; then, educating others. He has to reform himself initially then the others. He continues, “And his teaching should be by his own conduct before teaching by the tongue”. He should discipline others through his own conduct, attitude and behavior, not just with his tongue. A lot can be said, but through conduct and attitude, one can guide others toward the path of God. [In that case] He would be appointed and followed by the people as a guardian, a teacher and a trustee. Imam Ali – peace be upon him – continues, “The person who teaches and instructs his own self is more entitled to esteem then he who teaches and instructs others”. The one who educate and discipline himself is worthier to be honored than the one who discipline others in case he has not disciplined himself. This is the logic and the lesson of the Commander of the Faithful – peace be upon him. Governing is not just ruling. It is an influence in the hearts and an acceptance in the minds. One who is or will be in this position, should first engage himself in disciplining on a continuous basis. He should guide himself. He should remind and preach himself.
(March 16, 2001)