Ali Ibn Abi Talib - Volume 1 of 2

430 The oath of allegiance to 'Ali, his characteristics & his way of life
and the one who suffers therein will never be helped. Its heat is
intense, its bottom is deep and its water is a boiling fetid
If we ponder the quotation above, we will find that several
methods of impacting or moving people are represented here:
1. A sincere tone that is based on his strong conviction of what he
is calling for, which makes it seem as if his words are taken from
his burning soul and warm emotions. As soon as be utters a
sentence, their ears will receive it and their hearts will
understand it.
2. Words that are powerful yet easy and sweet; the way they are put
together is clear, and the sentences are short. This may help the
listener to understand the intended meaning.
3. Mentioning opposite meanings, which makes the meaning
clearer and will have a great impact on the listener. For example,
''This world is coming to an end and will soon bid farewell, and
the hereafter is coming and will soon begin," and "I have never
seen anything like paradise whose seekers could sleep and I have
never seen anything like hell, those who fear which can sleep."
4. Refemng to the Holy Qnr'an, as in the words, "Satan threatens
you with poverty and bids you to do evil, but Allah promises you
forgiveness and bounty from Him, and Allah cares for all and
knows all things."378 This is based on the verse: (Satan threatens
yon with poverty and orders you to commit Fahsha [evil deeds,
illegal sexual intercourse, sins]; whereas Allah promises you
forgiveness from Himself and bounty, and Allah is All-
Sufficient for His creatures' needs, ~ll-~nower.) (Qur'an 2: 268)
5. The ideas in this sermon are strongly influenced by the Holy
Qur'an and the words of the Messenger (g), and they are
strongly connected to human life, with deep, sublime and
comprehensive meanings. He excelled in choosing words and