The man who was born inside the Kaaba—Hazrat Ali (R.A). Everyone knows his name, but do we truly know who he was? While we revere him as the Lion of Allah, the Sahabas recognized him as the Gate of Knowledge. Yet, many today remain unaware of his remarkable attributes and profound teachings about life.

In an era plagued with challenges, reflecting on his teachings can guide us toward becoming the Ali of our time. Here are some of his timeless lessons:

1.    “Treat others as you wish to be treated, for they are either your brothers in faith or your equals in humanity.”
Everyone seeks respect, love, and loyalty, but few are willing to offer the same to others. Hazrat Ali reminds us that mutual respect and kindness form the foundation of a just and compassionate society.

2.    “Backbiting is the attempt of one who is incapable of doing better himself.”
In today’s world, backbiting has become a common pastime. Many resort to it as a way to mask their own shortcomings, laziness, or lack of effort. Instead of uplifting themselves, they degrade others to feel superior—a habit Hazrat Ali strongly condemned.

3.    “Dislike in yourself what you dislike in others.”
People despise being betrayed or abandoned in their hardships, yet they don’t to show loyalty and brotherhood. Hazrat Ali’s words teach us to first cultivate within ourselves the virtues we seek from others.

4.    “A wise man always has something to say, whereas a fool always needs to say something.”
Wisdom lies in thoughtful speech that benefits others. Yet, fools fill the air with meaningless chatter, drowning out the voices of those who could guide them toward betterment.

5.    “Not to have a thing is less humiliating than to beg for it.”
In our time, begging—whether for material possessions or undue favors—has become widespread. Hazrat Ali reminds us that dignity and self-respect are far more valuable than any material gain achieved through begging.

6.    “Truthfulness saves you, even if you fear it, while a lie destroys you, even if it seems to benefit you.”
Speaking the truth requires courage, for it often demands facing consequences. In contrast, lies offer an easy escape but ultimately lead to destruction. Hazrat Ali’s teaching calls us to embrace truth as a mark of bravery and integrity.

 

These teachings are not just lessons from the past—they are solutions for the present. By embodying these virtues, we can rise above the challenges of our time and strive to follow the example of Hazrat Ali (R.A).