Distinguishing authentic Islam from its counterfeit manifestations remains one of the central concerns that have preoccupied – and continue to preoccupy – Islamic thought. To acquire a sound understanding of Islam, it is imperative to refer to original and reliable Islamic sources, among which is Nahj al-Balagha (The Peak of Eloquence), recognized as one of the most prominent compilations preserving the teachings of authentic Islam. Amir al-Mu'minin Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS), the author of this esteemed volume, occupies a uniquely exalted status within the Islamic heritage as the most significant figure after the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He embodied Islam in its purest form through his words, stances, and life, the illumination of which is clearly reflected in the texts of Nahj al-Balagha, serving as a niche lamp illuminating the path of righteousness and guidance. Consequently, this research paper aims to extrapolate the statements of Imam Ali (AS) in Nahj al-Balagha to elucidate the features of authentic Islam and the characteristics of pseudo-Islam (al-Ta'assulum), endeavoring to serve the noble religion and the Prophet's Household (AS). Through this research, we attempt to delineate the portrayal presented by the Imam (AS) of authentic versus counterfeit Islam, and of the traits of the true Muslim versus the spurious Muslim, within Nahj al-Balagha. Given the research subject and its objectives, the study employed an inductive methodology, tracing the scholarly material, and an analytical methodology involving the examination of texts, extraction of meanings, and presentation of findings. The research culminated in several key findings, the essence of which is: The Imam (AS) presented a comprehensive depiction of Islam and pseudo-Islam, while defining the characteristics of both the true and the counterfeit Muslim. Based on the Imam's (AS) words, the most salient features of authentic Islam identified by the research include: the strength of its argument and proof; its role as a source of guidance, security, and peace; its supremacy over other religions; its distinction by a mighty Divine authority; its selection by God Almighty; and its attribute of permanence and eternity. Conversely, the most prominent characteristics of the pseudo-Muslim (al-Muta'assilim) and the counterfeit Muslim manifested as: tyranny (Tughyan); displaying Islam while harboring disbelief; committing acts contrary to the spirit and essence of Islam; violating the sanctity of a Muslim; and adopting Islam coercively or for utilitarian benefit.
Keywords: True Islam, false Islam, Muslim, hypocritical Muslim, Imam Ali (AS), Nahj al-Balagha.
Introduction
It is evident to everyone that Nahj al-Balagha is a great Islamic encyclopedia, a reference book, and a precious treasure accessible to Muslims. It enables them to benefit from its rich teachings in various fields, draw from its boundless ocean of knowledge and wisdom, apply its lessons in their lives, and attain guidance and success through it. This is because this infinite ocean encompasses diverse knowledge in religion, politics, society, economics, and other domains. It remains timeless, undiminished by the passage of time, and has always been—and continues to be—a guiding light for Muslims in all spheres. Among the questions Nahj al-Balagha is expected to address, while charting a clear path for Muslims in general and Shia in particular, are the defining features and foundations of Alavid Islam (the Islam of Imam Ali), the traits of counterfeit Islam, and what is permissible versus impermissible in Islam. Clearly, Imam Ali (AS) elaborates on these matters in his words and across various contexts, striving to introduce us to true Islam, provide a comprehensive definition of its objectives and pillars, and present its most important characteristics and core principles.
In addition to defining the traits of a sincere and genuine Muslim, Imam Ali (AS) also outlines the characteristics and qualities of those who merely pretend to follow Islam or adhere to its counterfeit version. This is so that every Muslim, by reflecting on these distinctions, can distance themselves—to the best of their ability—from hypocritical Muslims and their traits, and strive earnestly to attain the rank of a true Muslim. Undoubtedly, the image Imam Ali (AS) paints of true and false Islam is complete and holistic, and every Muslim must familiarize themselves with it. Thus, this research aims to identify the features and foundations of Islam as portrayed by Imam Ali (AS) in Nahj al-Balagha, as well as the markers and traits of counterfeit Islam, based on the Imam’s sermons, letters, and maxims. Accordingly, the study seeks to discern the characteristics of true and false Islam within this noble book. The research attempts to answer several questions, the most important of which are:

What is the ultimate goal of Islam, its pillars, and its achievements according to Nahj al-Balagha?
What characteristics and indicators does Imam Ali (AS) use to define true Islam?
What are the features of counterfeit Islam and the traits of hypocritical Muslims as outlined in Nahj al-Balagha?

Materials & methods
To address the research problem, the study employs an inductive method to trace its scholarly material and an analytical method to discuss and analyze statements related to the topic.
Discussion & Result
The key findings of this study are as follows:  

Nahj al-Balagha is like a beacon of light that illuminates the features of both true and false Islam, clarifies their indicators and components, distinguishes what ought to be done from what ought not, and paves the path of truth and salvation for seekers of righteousness.
The ultimate goal and primary purpose of Alawi Islam (the Islam of Imam Ali) is to attain eternal, uninterrupted happiness in the hereafter. Imam Ali (AS) emphasized in his teachings that whoever fulfills the obligations of Islam and implements its commandments optimally will have the Imam (AS) as their intercessor and witness on the Day of Judgment, testifying for them and responding to their supplications.
Imam Ali (AS) asserts that adherence and loyalty to three fundamental principles guarantee reaching the pinnacle and zenith of Islam. These principles are: Firm faith in God, Acknowledgment of the message of the Prophet of Islam (SAW), Striving (jihad) in the way of God. Beyond these three core principles, Imam Ali (AS) regards the Ahl al-Bayt (AS) — after the Prophet (SAW) — as the source of life, knowledge, and the eradication of ignorance. He describes them as the pillars of Islam, the foundations of religion, and the fortresses of humanity. Through them, truth is restored to its rightful place, and falsehood is displaced and vanquished.

Conclusion
The Commander of the Faithful (AS) presents a complete and clear portrait of the true Muslim. Among the traits of such a Muslim are: Embracing Islam wholeheartedly and holding firmly to it, Being ever-ready to strive (jihad) in God’s way against aggressors, Correctly understanding the knowledge and concepts of the Quran and applying them in life, Demonstrating humility and submission to God, Manifesting clear signs of faith and divine piety in their behavior and countenance.
Imam Ali (AS) enumerates the characteristics of hypocritical Islam and pseudo-Muslims, warning believers against such traits. Key markers of pseudo-Muslims include: Defying God’s commands, Contradiction between words and actions, Committing acts that violate and oppose Islam, Practicing utilitarian Islam (for personal gain), Violating the sanctity of a fellow Muslim—a sin Imam Ali (AS) ranks second in gravity only to rejecting monotheism (tawhid).