Imam Ali’s Letter to Malik Al Ashtar (8)
Story by Jessica Mbamah
Malik_al_Ashtar was one of the especial companions of Imam_Ali a.s and one of the powerful leaders of Iraq. He was one of the commanders of the army of Imam ‘Ali (a) who was forethoughtful in politics and strong in battle. He participated in the Battle of Jamal and the Battle of Siffin and eventually he was appointed by Imam ‘Ali (pbuh) as governor_general in Egypt. However, he was martyred before arriving to Egypt.
The famous treaty of Malik al-Ashtar is a letter that Imam ‘Ali wrote to him while he was in Egypt.
READ ALSO: Imam Ali’s Letter to Malik Al Ashtar (7)
Part 8
The Army
Be particularly mindful of the welfare of those in the army who in your opinion, are staunchly faithful to their God and the prophet and loyal to their chief, and who in the hour of passion can restrain themselves and listen coolly to sensible remonstrance, and who can succor the weak and smite the strong, whom violent provocation will not throw into violent temper and who will not falter at any stage.
Keep yourself in close contact with the families of established reputation and integrity with a glorious past, and draw to yourself men brave and upright in character, generous and benevolent in disposition; for such are the salt of society.
Care for them with the tenderness with which you care for your children, and do not talk before them of any good that you might have done to them, nor disregard any expression of affection which they show in return, for such conduct inspires loyalty, devotion and goodwill. Attend to every little of their wants not resting content with what general help that you might have given to them, for sometimes, timely attention to a little want of theirs brings them immense relief. Surely these people will not forget you in your own hour of need.
READ ALSO: Imam Ali’s Letter to Malik Al Ashtar (6)
It behooves you to select for your Commander-in-Chief one who imposes on himself as a duty, the task of rendering help to his men, and who can excel in kindness every other officer who has to attend to the needs of the men under him, and look after their families when they are away from their homes; so much so, that the entire army should feel united in their joys and in their sorrows. The unity of purpose will give them added strength against the enemy.
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