The Function of  the Capacity of the Community in Understanding the Political and Social Life of Imam Ali (a)

Taking lessons from the life of the Infallibles (a) in all aspects has been a practice of the Muslims throughout the ages. However, certain aspects of their lives such as their political and social stance is not without apparent ambiguities and complexities. Therefore, in order to clear the doubts about the political and social life of the Infallibles (a), it is necessary to follow certain principles and guidelines. Taking into consideration the capacity of the community is one of the principle factors that can remove any apparent ambiguity about their political and social stance and can, to a great extent, make it easier to follow in their footsteps. The conclusions of this research show that in order to correctly understand the stance taken by the Infallibles (a), and the logic behind their actions, it is imperative to consider the capacity of the community [at that time]. Some of the examples of this include: the level of insight and awareness in the community, the strength of will and determination in the members of the community, and the general condition of loyalty and dedication of individuals in the society. Ignoring all these factors in the lives of the Infallibles (a) can lead one to misunderstand their stance and the reason for some of their actions.