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Letters

Explore all 89 letters (Rasa'il) from Nahj al-Balagha, featuring political correspondence, administrative guidance, and personal counsel.

Letters (Rasa'il)

The letters of Nahj al-Balagha provide invaluable insight into Imam Ali's approach to governance, diplomacy, and personal relationships. Written to governors, commanders, companions, and even adversaries, these letters reveal principles of justice, administration, and ethical leadership.

Browse All 89 Letters

Letters 1-30

Early correspondence including letters to Mu'awiyah and instructions to governors.

Letters 31-60

Including the famous letter to Malik al-Ashtar on governance and administration.

Letters 61-89

Final letters including personal advice and counsel to family members.

Notable Letters

  • Letter 31 - Advice to his son Hasan on character and conduct
  • Letter 53 - Instructions to Malik al-Ashtar, a comprehensive treatise on governance
  • Letter 45 - On the importance of justice in leadership
  • Letter 47 - Will and testament dictated after the attack
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Sermon 99

About abstinence of the world and vicissitudes of time

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Letter 1

The following is the letter sent by Imam Ali (a) through Imam Husayn (a) and Ammar Yasir to the people of Kufa before he proceeded to Basra for the Battle of Jamal.