Imam Ali's View about the Meaning of Awareness of Death and Its Effects

All the creatures in this world are destined to death and man is no exception. He, also confronts death like any other creature. However, because mankind has certain characteristics and qualities, he is aware of his death. All divine religions have paid particular attention to death, awareness of death, and thinking of death their doctrines. Referring to Quranic verses and traditions and focusing on Nahjol Balaghah, the present paper tries to elaborate on the meaning of awareness of death and identify its causes. This article also reviews the contexts, effects and obstacles of awareness of death in order to prepare the ground for its emergence and manifestation in man's life, which can direct our acts towards what is the best in the world and hereafter.Key words: death, awareness of death, thinking of death, this world, hereafter, Imam Ali (peace be upon him), Nahjol Balaghah