Identify the defining characteristics of 'al-hikma' (الحكمة) as a literary genre in classical Arabic prose.

'Al-hikma' (الحكمة), meaning 'wisdom,' is a prominent literary genre in classical Arabic prose. It's characterized by its focus on conveying profound truths, moral lessons, and practical advice in a concise and memorable form. Several defining characteristics distinguish 'al-hikma' from other forms of classical Arabic prose. First, 'al-hikma' typically employs a *brief and pithy style*. Sentences are short and impactful, aiming to encapsulate complex ideas in a few well-chosen words. This brevity enhances memorability, making the wisdom easily quotable and applicable to various situations. Second, 'al-hikma' often utilizes *rhetorical devices(الفنون البلاغية) to enhance its impact. These devices include metaphors (الاستعارة), similes (التشبيه), and parallelism (التوازي), which make the wisdom more engaging and aesthetically pleasing. Third, 'al-hikma' is *grounded in observation and experience*. The wisdom conveyed is not abstract or theoretical but is derived from real-world situations and reflections on human nature. This practical grounding makes the wisdom relevant and applicable to the lives of the readers. Fourth, 'al-hikma' often carries a *moral or ethical dimension*. It aims to guide readers towards virtuous behavior, ethical decision-making, and a deeper understanding of their place in the world. Fifth, 'al-hikma' frequently employs *generalizations and universal truths*. It seeks to express wisdom that is applicable across different cultures, time periods, and social contexts. Examples of 'al-hikma' can be found in various forms, such as proverbs (أمثال), aphorisms (أقوال مأثورة), and wise sayings (حكم). A famous example is the saying attributed to Ali ibn Abi Talib: 'الفرصة تمر مر السحاب' (al-fursatu tamurru marra al-sahab – Opportunity passes like the passing of clouds), which conveys the wisdom of seizing opportunities before they disappear. Unlike other forms of prose, such as historical chronicles or biographies, 'al-hikma' focuses primarily on imparting wisdom and moral guidance through concise and memorable statements.