A Theoretical Model of Resistance from the Perspective of Nahj al-Balaghah: A Case Study of Sermons and Letters on Resistance

From the perspective of Nahj al-Balāghah, resistance constitutes a foundational principle for sustaining the emancipatory movement of the oppressed and the marginalized, achieving the lofty human and Islamic ideals, and confronting falsehood and global arrogance. Developing a theoretical model and explicating the strategic elements of resistance theory are therefore essential for fostering deeper understanding, enhancing insight, and guiding the movement along its intended course. Accordingly, this study seeks to identify the strategic propositions that constitute the theoretical model of resistance as emphasized by Imam Ali (peace be upon him) and that serve as the foundation of dignity, honor, and steadfastness. This qualitative study employs thematic analysis to construct a logical model of the theory of resistance. Drawing upon selected sermons and letters concerning resistance in Nahj al-Balāghah, interpreted through multiple authoritative commentaries, the analysis identified 69 basic themes, emphasizing steadfastness and perseverance, safeguarding religion through endurance, maintaining hope despite the hardships of the path of truth, and remaining undeterred by limited human and material resources. Furthermore, 46 overarching themes were extracted, including the divine tradition of the triumph of truth over falsehood, the inseparable relationship between resistance and divine support, faith and piety as the foundations of resistance, rationality and prudence in pursuing the path of truth, certainty in the fulfillment of divine promises through perseverance, social unity and cohesion, and obedience to righteous leadership. The analysis also yielded six organizing themes encompassing the principles, traditions, and values of resistance; enabling and facilitating factors; inhibiting and intervening factors; strategic approaches; and the outcomes and consequences of resistance within the proposed theoretical model. The findings indicate that, according to the resistance model derived from Nahj al-Balāghah, resistance represents the most effective means of confronting oppression and overcoming political, economic, and social crises at both the individual and societal levels. Moreover, it provides the foundation for realizing Islamic dignity and honor while attaining victory, success, and divine assistance.