Examples of Wills Written by Divine Figures
The Commander of the Faithful (AS), after he was struck with a sword and was in bed before his martyrdom, gave these instructions and recommendations to his children. Some of his remarks are as follows:
“O Hassan and Hussein! I urge you to have Taqwa (God-fearing). (Calling for Taqwa usually comes first in the infallibles’ recommendations and signifies man’s relationship with God)
Do not seek to have the world even if the world comes to you and when you lose something in the world do not feel sorrow. (This is about man’s relationship with the world)
Tell the truth and work for the Day of Resurrection and divine rewards. (This sentence expresses the goal)
Be enemies to oppressors and harm-doers and support the oppressed and the deprived. (This is about how to have political, social, military and economic reaction in relation to oppressors and the oppressed)
I recommend you two and other members of my family and all others who will read this from now on to have Taqwa and order in works.”
As you see, Imam Ali (AS) addresses all people in the world. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) said: “I and are the fathers of this nation.” So Imam Ali (AS) takes into account all of the world when writing a will.
It is interesting that Imam (AS) talks about Taqwa and order together. It means that one must both fulfil his duties toward God and have order in his interaction with others.
Then Imam Ali (AS) said:
“Try to uproot animosity in the society as the Holy Prophet (PBUH) said bringing reconciliation between two Muslims is better than all of your Mustahab (recommended) prayers and fasting).”
Then Imam Ali (AS) offered recommendations about the need to fulfill responsibilities toward orphans, neighbors, the Quran, Salah, Hajj, Jihad, Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice and justice in judgment.
About his murderer, Imam (AS) said: “Beware, do not kill on account of me except my killer. Wait till I die by from his blow. Then strike him one strike for his strike and do not dismember the limbs of the man, for I have heard the Messenger of God saying, “Avoid cutting limbs even though it may be a rabid dog.”
