The holy Imam Ali`s Shrine is one of the oldest tombs in the history of Islam. Besides its spiritual radiance and divine glow, it possesses high artistic, cultural, and civilizational dimensions. These aspects are indebted to the vision of its benefactors and rebuilding patrons.
Throughout the centuries, these benefactors have deposited the essence of their art, skill, and culture in the works within this shrine. One of the most prominent and profound expressions of this effort is reflected in the inscriptions of the Imam Ali’s Shrine. These inscriptions are among the few elements that serve as a medium for conveying the messages of the builders directly to pilgrims and are characterized by a great diversity.
The number of these inscriptions is extensive, and their texts are often lengthy or part of a longer message. This study aims to deepen our understanding of this luminous shrine and to offer new perspectives for pilgrims to better utilize this radiant space. It involves a historical analysis of some of these inscriptions based on the cultural approach of their creators in the last four centuries. These approaches include، promoting knowledge and praise; aligning sacred concepts with tangible and perceptible matters; encouraging supplication; encouraging practical following of Imam Ali (AS); an inclusive and theological approach; a reporting and documenting approach of services and benefactors.