Ethical and legal principles and their relationship with Nahj al-Balagha

Abstract

Submission date: 19 / 01 /2026

Acceptance date: 09 / 02 /2026

Publication date: 30 /03 /2026

This study focuses on elucidating the ethical and legal principles in Nahj al-Balagha, concentrating on the first section which examines the integration of moral conscience and legal legislation. The first subsection addresses the foundations of justice and legal equality, clarifying that the law in Nahj al-Balagha is based on absolute equality before the law. The second subsection reviews the charter of administration and public office, as presented in Imam Ali's covenant with Malik al-Ashtar, outlining the ethical and professional requirements for assuming public office. The third subsection examines the judiciary and legal integrity, highlighting the independence of the judiciary and the necessity of its detachment from personal biases. The fourth subsection addresses financial and social rights and how to distribute wealth equitably in a way that preserves human dignity. The study concludes that Nahj al-Balagha presents a structural vision that does not separate personal piety from legal obligation, where conscience serves as the internal monitor preceding the oversight of authority. The study demonstrates that these principles are not idealistic theories but rather practical applications during the time of Imam Ali (peace be upon him), aimed at protecting the vulnerable and framing the actions of the powerful within certain limits. The law, as the research revealed, accurately defines rights and obligations, making it a valuable resource for developing contemporary legislation that often lacks an ethical and moral dimension.