Abstract



In Islamic thought, religion, as a comprehensive program for life, plays a fundamental role in organizing governance. This study, taking Nahj al-Balagha as the principal source of the political–theological teachings of Imam Ali (peace be upon him), seeks to answer the central question: What are the fundamental principles of religious governance in Nahj al-Balagha, and what implications do they have for the Islamic political system?



The research hypothesis is based on the proposition that the foundations of governance in the intellectual framework of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) are not limited merely to ritual rulings; rather, they are shaped by rationality, justice, and ethics, and their implementation leads to sustainable legitimacy and effectiveness of the religious system. This study employs a descriptive-analytical method. The findings indicate that the most important principles of religious governance from the perspective of Imam Ali include serious attention to the public treasury (Bayt al-Mal) and its proper expenditure, enjoining good and forbidding evil, unity and solidarity, and transparency. These principles, rooted in the monotheistic worldview of Nahj al-Balagha, have tangible implications for the Islamic political system, the most significant of which are the realization of social justice, rejection of autocracy, commitment to the rights of the people, establishment and promotion of religious teachings, and accountability of the ruler to the people.



Therefore, from the perspective of Nahj al-Balagha, the presence of religion in governance not only enhances its divine legitimacy but also provides a rational and humane framework for securing the worldly and otherworldly well-being of citizens.