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Warning against Underestimating the Enemy
429. Imām Ali (a.s.): “Do not underestimate any of the enemies, even if they are weak.”1
430. Imām Ali (a.s.) – from an aphorism attributed to him: “Beware of underestimating the enemy, for it bars you from vigilance. Many a small group has defeated a great group!”2
431. Imām Ali (a.s.) – from an aphorism attributed to him: “Do not underestimate the power of your enemy when you are fighting with him, for if you win [the battle], you will not be praised and if he defeats you, you are not excused. The weak that keeps a watchful eye on the powerful enemy is closer to safety than the powerful who is conceited of his own power over the weak.”3
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Warning against Consultation with the Enemy
432. Imām Ali (a.s.): “He who seeks consultation with his enemy is ignorant.”4
433. Imām Ali (a.s.): “Do not consult your enemy, and conceal your news from him.”5
434. Imām Ali (a.s.): “Consult your enemies only in order to find out the extent of their enmity and their goals.”6
1.. Ghurar al-Hikam, h. ۱۰۲۱۶.
2.. Sharh Nahj al-Balāghah, vol. ۲۰, p. ۲۸۲, h. ۲۳۱.
3.. Sharh Nahj al-Balāghah, vol. ۲۰, p. ۳۰۹, h. ۵۴۳.
4.. Ghurar al-Hikam, h. ۶۶۶۳.
5.. Ibid, h. ۱۰۱۹۸.
6.. Ibid, h. ۲۴۶۲.