Features of Sound Administrative Governance in Nahj Al-Blagaha by Imam Ali: An Analytical Study

Abstract

This study aims to highlight the sound administrative governance in the Islamic thought of Imam Ali as manifested in Nahig Al- Blagaha, and more specifically in Al-ahd, which is a testament submitted to Malek Ibn Al-hareth Al-nahkeei known as Al-Ashtar when appointed to rule Egypt after the chaotic period of Mohammed Bin Ibi Bakr. The items of Al-Ahd were closely analyzed in such a way as to figure out the principles and bases of sound administrative governance based on Imam Ali’s experience in governance as a caliph and ruler of a very vast state. Actually Al-Ahd was an endeavor to outline the sound administrative governance during an era in Islamic history featured by its complexities, similar to the political situation the Islamic and Arab world is going through.

Some of the modern international forms of sound governance have been studied and discussed, and comparisons were made with AL-Ahd in Nahj Al-Balagah; to see that they do not differ from Al-Ahd’s. However, Al-Ahd’s items prove far better as they include the principles of sound administrative governance of today's political systems.

This study employs a comparative analytical methodology as it compares the items of Nahj Al-Balagah and those of the present time. The study comes up with the following results that there are many concepts and terminology in our Islamic heritage, which if studied closely and applied correctly will solve most our today's administrative and political issues. The principles that systemize the relationship between the ruler and the people on the different layers of governance could be extracted in the different aspects of life i-e economically, socially; thus ensures sustainable development featured by equality and the well-being of the community.

The present study recommends restudying the political Islamic heritage subjectively to dig up the principles of sound administrative governance in the Arab World. This will establish for a comprehensive political Islamic system that manifests the spirit of Islam, Holy Quran and the prophet tradition. This will help replace the current political systems that have resulted in hatred and division among Muslims.