مَنْ عَمِلَ بِالحَقِّ أفْلَحَ۔
One who acts upon the truth becomes successful.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: The Truth)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.
The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,
مَنْ عَمِلَ بِالحَقِّ أفْلَحَ۔
This Hadith can be translated as,
One who acts upon the truth becomes successful.
Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this impactful Hadith in light of the Quran.
Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The word (amila) "عَمِلَ" means to act or perform, while (bil-haqqi) "بِالحَقِّ" refers to the truth. The word (aflaha) "أفْلَحَ" signifies success.
The Quran emphasizes the importance of acting upon the truth in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Asr (103:3),
Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.
This verse highlights the significance of not only believing in the truth but also acting upon it and encouraging others to do the same.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:1-2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,
Certainly will the believers have succeeded: They who are during their prayer humbly submissive.
Here, success is attributed to those who not only believe but also demonstrate their faith through acts of worship, such as prayer, with humility and submission.
The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that true success lies in acting upon the truth. It is not enough to merely possess knowledge or belief; one must translate that knowledge into action. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that their faith should be reflected in their deeds.
When we act upon the truth, we align ourselves with the divine guidance and teachings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Our actions become a manifestation of our faith and a means of attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By adhering to the truth, we establish justice, promote righteousness, and contribute to the betterment of society.
Moreover, acting upon the truth brings about personal growth and development. It strengthens our character, purifies our intentions, and instills a sense of purpose in our lives. When we consistently act in accordance with the truth, we become more steadfast, resilient, and morally upright individuals.
Conversely, neglecting or deviating from the truth leads to spiritual and moral decline. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:42),
And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it].
This verse cautions against distorting the truth or concealing it, as it undermines the foundations of faith and righteousness.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true success lies in acting upon the truth. It is not enough to merely possess knowledge or belief; we must translate that knowledge into action. By aligning our actions with the truth, we establish justice, promote righteousness, and contribute to the betterment of society. Furthermore, acting upon the truth brings about personal growth, strengthens our character, and instills a sense of purpose in our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to act upon the truth and attain true success.
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