Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
PhD in Public Administration (Organizational Behavior), Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Tehran, Iran
2
Master of Educational Sciences, Tehran Provincial Education Department, Tehran, Iran .
10.30471/rsm.2025.10806.1446
Abstract
Objective: This research aims to extract effective crisis management models from the teachings of Imam Ali (A.S.) using a meta-synthesis approach, offering solutions for contemporary crisis management. The goal is to design a practical model based on his principles to mitigate damages and create development opportunities during crises.
Research Methodology: This qualitative study employs meta-synthesis, with data extracted through thematic analysis and processed using MAXQDA software.
Findings: Thirty-five open codes, 21 basic themes, and 4 organizing themes were identified. Key principles of crisis management from Imam Ali’s perspective include consultation, transparency in decision-making, justice, and social solidarity. A comprehensive crisis management model for organizations and Islamic societies (particularly in Iran) was developed.
Conclusion: The study demonstrates that applying Imam Ali’s management principles can serve as an effective model for addressing modern crises.
Introduction: Crisis management in today’s complex world poses significant challenges for leaders. The teachings of Imam Ali (A.S.), as a rich source of managerial wisdom, provide a robust framework for crisis response. His strategic thinking, decision-making under pressure, emphasis on unity, and consultative approach offer timeless insights. Additionally, his focus on justice and fairness remains highly relevant to contemporary economic and social crises. Research indicates that traits such as honesty, courage, and foresight enable leaders to navigate challenges successfully. This study analyzes these teachings to propose actionable models for improving crisis management in modern contexts, aligned with Islamic societal principles.
Research Methodology: Meta-synthesis, a qualitative research method, integrates findings from multiple studies to generate new insights. This study follows Sandelowski and Barroso’s seven-step model to examine Imam Ali’s crisis management approaches. Research questions were formulated, and relevant literature was systematically reviewed. From an initial pool of 465 scholarly documents, 9 were selected for in-depth analysis after rigorous evaluation of methodological quality and analytical precision.
Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and key themes. The study explores how Imam Ali’s principles can be adapted to modern crisis management, offering enhancements for management systems in Islamic societies.
Results: Through meta-synthesis, this study analyzed Imam Ali’s crisis management models. Data from Islamic management and crisis literature were coded, yielding 35 open codes, 21 basic themes, and 4 organizing themes. These were categorized into four main dimensions:
1. Managerial factors (coordination, planning, leadership, analysis)
2. Personal traits (commitment, accountability, foresight)
3. Interactive and communicative elements (consultation, solidarity, transparency)
4. Ethical and ideological principles (justice, faith, trust in God)
A conceptual crisis management model was developed, forming a cohesive framework based on Imam Ali’s teachings.
Discussion and Conclusion: The findings highlight that Imam Ali’s crisis management principles emphasize not only individual leadership qualities but also ethical conduct, consultative decision-making, and organizational cohesion. Core elements such as justice, transparency, and empathy significantly enhance crisis response in Islamic societies, particularly Iran. Personal attributes like diligence and analytical skills, alongside interactive strategies such as teamwork and knowledge-sharing, further strengthen crisis resilience.
This model, rooted in ethical and faith-based principles, provides a viable framework for contemporary crisis management. The study’s 35 codes and 21 themes culminated in a conceptual model, demonstrating how Imam Ali’s teachings can guide modern leaders and advance Islamic societies.
Practical Implications for Crisis Management: Modern organizations face multifaceted crises that demand robust management strategies. Drawing from Imam Ali’s teachings, the following recommendations are proposed:
1. Consultation: Establish specialized crisis committees involving key stakeholders.
2. Transparency: Maintain clear, honest communication with employees and stakeholders.
3. Employee Well-being: Foster a supportive environment to alleviate stress.
4. Fair Resource Allocation: Ensure equitable distribution of responsibilities and resources.
5. Training Programs: Enhance crisis preparedness through employee empowerment initiatives.
6. Solidarity: Strengthen collaboration via regular meetings and shared experiences.
Suggestions for Future Research: Future studies should:
* Examine the application of Imam Ali’s teachings in economic and social crises.
* Compare his models with contemporary management frameworks.
* Conduct field studies to assess their effectiveness in organizational settings.
Acknowledgements: The authors express gratitude to the participants, anonymous reviewers, and the editorial team of Islamic Knowledge and Management for their intellectual contributions.
Conflict of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest. This research adheres to ethical and scientific standards, free from institutional or personal bias.
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