Real Shiites; Practical and Patient Scholars

This paper is the transcript of professor Misbah's ethics lesson describing the actual characteristics of Shiites in the words of Amir al-Muminin. According to Imam Ali, the twenty-second characteristic of real Shia is their combining knowledge with action, and science with patience and tolerance. The Shiites avoid snap decisions in their conscious behavior. An inconsiderate and impious scholar who does not act upon his knowledge, and uses his knowledge to benefit from materialistic values has been condemned. For this reason, it has been stated in traditions that one who acts upon his knowledge is self-sufficient in what he does not know. Hence, those who seek knowledge for the sake of showing off are to blame, and it is recommended to acquire knowledge for divine purposes. Furthermore, it has been mentioned that seeking material world and not putting knowledge into practice are considered as blights on religiosity. Finally, those who act upon the commands of God the Almighty will enjoy divine knowledge.