Hadith #2015

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنِ احْتَجَّ بِالحَقِّ فَلَجَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who argues by truth, succeeds.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (ihtajja) "احْتَجَّ" in the Hadith means to argue or debate. It implies presenting evidence and logical reasoning to support one's position. However, what sets this form of argumentation apart is the emphasis on truth. The word (bilhaqq) "بِالحَقِّ" means with truth or by truth. It signifies that the argument is based on authentic and genuine evidence, rooted in the ultimate truth.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking and upholding the truth. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 17:81)

And say: 'Truth has come, and falsehood has departed. Indeed is falsehood, [by nature], ever bound to depart.'

This verse highlights the inherent nature of truth to prevail over falsehood. Therefore, when one argues by truth, they align themselves with the divine order and are more likely to succeed.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages the believers to engage in dialogue and debate with wisdom and good manners. In Surah An-Nahl, Allah says, (Quran 16:125)

Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best.

This verse emphasizes the importance of presenting arguments in a respectful and effective manner, which includes using truth as the foundation of one's argument.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified this principle throughout his life. He would engage in debates and discussions, always relying on the truth as his weapon. His arguments were rooted in the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

When one argues by truth, they not only succeed in convincing others but also in upholding justice and righteousness. The consequences of arguing by truth are far-reaching. It leads to the establishment of justice, the eradication of falsehood, and the spread of knowledge and enlightenment. It is through such arguments that societies progress and individuals grow in their understanding of the truth.

Moreover, arguing by truth requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to present evidence in a clear and logical manner. It necessitates sincerity and a genuine desire to seek the truth, rather than winning an argument for the sake of ego or personal gain. It requires humility and the willingness to accept the truth even if it contradicts one's preconceived notions.

As Muslims, we are called to follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and argue by truth in all aspects of our lives. Whether it is in matters of faith, social justice, or personal relationships, we should strive to present our arguments based on authentic evidence and logical reasoning. By doing so, we not only succeed in this world but also earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and attain success in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of arguing by truth. It reminds us that success lies in presenting our arguments based on authentic evidence and logical reasoning. By aligning ourselves with the ultimate truth, we uphold justice, spread knowledge, and grow in our understanding of the divine wisdom. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to argue by truth and attain success in this world and the Hereafter.