Story No. 234 – Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) and Candle: Concept of justice in Islam

Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) and CandleA candle burnt by Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib’s (as) side, as he sat down meticulously recording all the revenue and the expenses of the State Treasury (Baitul Mal).

 

Just then Talha and Zubair appeared.

 

They aspired to some positions of authority in Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib’s (as) rule and had come to strike a deal. If Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) gave them a place of distinction, they would in turn pledge their full support. Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) knew of this.

 

Just as they sat down, Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) puts out the candle and lit another one.

 

Talha and Zubair exchanged a glance of surprise and then one of them said: “O Ali, we have come on some important business. But why did you extinguish the first candle?”

 

Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) replied: “That was a candle bought of State Treasury (Baitul Mal) funds. As long as I worked for the treasury, I used it. Now you have come for some personal work, so I use the candle bought of my personal fund.”

 

After hearing, Talha and Zubair left him without saying another word.