Analyzing the Views of the Commentators of Nahj al-Balaghah in Determining the Instance of Sermon 219; Critical Approach to Second Caliph’s Praising by Imam Ali (AS)

Imam Ali (AS) in sermon 219 of Nahj al-Balaghah has implicitly praised an unknown person, which caused differences between Islamic religions. Some have rejected its attribution to Imam Ali (AS) and considered it a forged one. However, according to the correct theory, this sermon is original, and its attribution to the Amir al-Mu'minin (AS) is accurate. There are various views on the true meaning of this sermon. Some thinkers have remained silent without trying to find the truth. Some groups have also brought unrealistic, far-fetched attributions such as the Prophet (PBUH), Salman, etc. Most of the presented views consider the second caliph as the real example of this sermon, but there is a difference in why Imam Ali (AS) praised him. In line with their religion, Sunni scholars have considered this Alawite praise as a confirmation of the legitimacy of their caliphate and religion. However, according to Imami scholars, the second caliph's praise by the Amir al-Mu'minin (AS) was due to Taqiya or Toryeh. Taqiya's approach is not acceptable due to the lack of conditions for Taqiya, so according to that time's political situation, the best and most solid theory in this regard is that the sermon is Toryeh.