A critical examination of Alousi's view on the infallibility of mir al-Mu'minin (a.s.) with reference to Sermons 216 and 78 of Nahj al-Balagha

The word infallibility means prohibition, and in the term, it means the existence of a force that protects a person from committing mistakes and sins. The Imamiyyah, while agreeing on the Imam's infallibility, have proved it with numerous reasons. Referring to some sermons, Alousi says, "Ali's acknowledgment of his mistakes and asking for forgiveness" is proof of his non-infallibility. The present article has tried to critically examine Alousi's point of view, relying on the documentary method. He has selectively used some passages of Nahj al-Balaghah for specific purposes without paying attention to the context of the speech, looking at Imam's words in a systematic way, just by the appearance of the words. Imam's acknowledgment of "mistake" concerns the civil dimension and "seeking forgiveness", is due to the difference between the language of supplication and the Sharia, and related to preoccupation with non-obligatory duties and refers to the aspect of education and upbringing of the Ummah. Considering the consensus of the Shiites on the infallibility of the Imam and Alusi's suspicions, it is necessary to address the subject of the debate.