Who is a believer ? In the light of sayings of Imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib (A)
The believer is one with whom people’s life, wealth, and dignity are secure.
He has strong religious convictions. He is very eager to understand the religious teachings.
In pursuing his aims, he achieves perseverance by combining endurance and wisdom.
When rich, he does not forget moderation; when poor, he forbears without sacrificing his dignity.
When powerful, he forgives easily. He is generous in appropriate ways.
In all inquiries, he aspires to increase his knowledge and understanding.
His behavior is gentle. His actions and walk reflect modesty.
He faces calamities with patience and never becomes panic- stricken.
People enjoy his affection and calmness. He is ready to bear pain in order to comfort others.
He is sincere in his friendship. He honors his promises.
Although he is criticized, he never criticizes anyone.
In his judgements, he is neither oppressive nor unfair.
He helps the oppressed and is concerned about the deprived. He does not abandon those in distress; he tries his best to relieve their burdens.
His earnings are pure and legitimate.
When infuriated, he behaves justly.
In his treaties, he is firm and consistent. In his friendships, he is faithful and avoids meddling.
He respects the rights of those who are absent. He accepts the apologies of those at fault.
He is generous without being extravagant or wasteful.
He is kind and compassionate to the poor and weak. Anyone can expect his assistance during difficulties.
He does not forget those who are good to him; he is grateful.
He guides those who seek advice.
He assists those who have assisted him.
He does not divulge people’s secrets. He does not inquire into affairs which do not concern him. He is honest and trustworthy.
He avoids coercion, ignorance and lies. He keeps away from evil.
He raises questions in order to increase his knowledge and keeps silent in order to avoid mistakes.
He combines conscience and patience in his behavior. He communicates with others so that his knowledge may be increased.
His livelihood is earned in an honorable way.
He treats people kindly and affectionately. He is conscious and affable.
He tries not to hurt anyone; people are safe with him. He deals fairly with all.
In his actions towards others, he respects justice. He does unto others as he likes done unto him.
To those near him, he is a friend and helper. To the orphans, he is like a father.
He is not crude or rude toward his inferiors. He is not idle.
He follows the examples of good leadership demonstrated by his predecessors.
He sets a good example for those who succeed him.
His good deeds are not performed for the sake of show. He is not hypocritical in his actions.
He does not abandon a benefaction at the pretext of embarrassment.
He is not boisterous. He does not take credit for the good deeds of others.
He is not proud or selfish.
He speaks only the truth. He is moderate and wise.
There is no flaw, laxity or partiality in his judgments.
He is not disgraced by love of food. He is not governed by his whims and sexual desires; he can control them.
He is not envious. He is not hasty.
He does not pounce nor insult others.
He does not degrade anyone nor backbite.
He is not slack nor dishonorable.
If he keeps away from someone, it is not due to arrogance. If he associates with someone, it is not in order to be deceptive or spy.
He does not lose countenance in the face of violence and calamity.
When affluent, he does not become proud.
He does not fall into the same difficulty twice.
May God bless us to become true believers