In the name of God In the previous weeks, we referred to two important traits of Imams, which are namely their infallibility and vast knowledge. Today, we study some of the other characteristic traits of the Imam.

All humans innately support and respect justice. One of the topics of importance in human life and sacred religion of Islam is to focus on people’s rights and to establish and administer social justice. The topic of justice is one of the major discussions in the Islamic culture. All creatures, including human beings, are indebted to divine justice. Divine justice is evident in the entire universe and among all of the world’s creatures. The Quranic teachings on subjects such as ideological principles; the topic of men and women and familial bonds; social contracts; ethical values; political and economic relations; and terms of worship of God are all based on justice.

Meanwhile, in order to balance and organize social relations, and to put them on the right track, the divine religion of Islam has established comprehensive laws, based on justice, and has handed over the administration of affairs of the community to merited and just individuals. Imam leads these individuals, which means one of the important characteristic traits of the Imam is justice. This trait was clearly evident in all of the aspects of lives of the Infallible Imams of the Prophet of Islam’s Household, including their remarks and deeds. Although the stage was not set for the rule of majority of the Infallible Imams; the era of rule of the First Infallible Imam of Prophet of Islam’s Household, Imam Ali (Peace be upon him), and the prudence and innovations of Imam Ali in uprooting poverty, and inequality, and in administering justice in the community is considered as a unique and eternal role model within the history of mankind.

Social justice means that the natural and actual potentials and merits of mankind are taken into consideration, and each individual is granted concessions based on his efforts, talents, and merits. In a truly competent ruling system, suppression is illegitimate.

Undoubtedly, for a righteous and truthful politician; administration and spread of justice in the community is a major and fundamental ideal. Imam Ali admired and praised justice. The demand for administration and establishment of justice was a main principle in the remarks and deeds of the Infallible Imams of Prophet Mohammad’s Household. Upon the demand of people, Imam Ali came to power in order to revive, reinforce, and cement justice in the community. He was the symbol of righteousness and justice, and he never imposed any injustice on others. His justice was rooted in his unique piety and devoutness. He always called on his officials to administer justice among the masses of people.

Imam Ali’s justice was all-encompassing and maintained no human or geographical boundaries. Hence, he was against imposition of any injustice on people; irrespective of their nationality, race, and religion.

In the view of Imam, justice is a pillar which establishes balance in the community and prevents it from collapse. Administration of justice brings about mental health and peace of mind for the members of the community. Meanwhile, injustice and inequality cannot alleviate people’s woes and maintain their peace of mind.

Generally speaking, Imam is an exemplary individual who is faultless, manifesting all ethical virtues.

One of the evident traits of Imam is his courage and resoluteness. Obviously leading the community based on truth and justice causes the enmity of a few, who feel a threat against their ominous interests. Confrontation against these unjust and criminal enemies necessitates courage and determination.

All of the Infallible Imams were not afraid of dealing with problems and obstacles. They made every effort to revive and safeguard the sacred religion of Islam against any possible harm.

Imam maintains honor, is virtuous, and has a good record of conduct. He should get along with people. This is because at times in order to reform the material lives of people, one should overlook some of their wrongdoings. Imam should also be forgiving, such as Joseph, who forgave his brothers’ wrongdoing upon their repentance. Forgiveness of the Imam raises hopes among sinners for their liberation from the yoke of sins.

Imams are also hard workers. Usually impatient managers are unsuccessful in their responsibilities. This is because one of the important means for leadership is hard work and self-restraint.

Imam also maintains a simple lifestyle. In fact, as a superior role model, Imam is not preoccupied with the glitters of material life. Furthermore, in relation to social rights, Imam considers himself as equal to others and maintains no personal concessions. He makes utmost efforts to solve people’s problems, and precisely monitors and supervises the performance of his officials so that people’s rights would not be violated.

MR/EA