نِعْمَ الدَّليلُ الحَقُّ۔
How good a guide truth is!
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: The Truth)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.
The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "نِعْمَ الدَّليلُ الحَقُّ۔" which translates to
How good a guide truth is!
This concise statement carries profound wisdom and serves as a reminder of the importance of truth in our lives.
Let us delve into the words used in this Hadith. The word (dalil) "دَلِيل" refers to a guide or a signpost that directs one towards the right path. It is something that leads us to the truth and helps us navigate through the complexities of life. The word (haqq) "حَقّ" means truth, reality, or that which is in accordance with the divine will and purpose.
The significance of truth in Islam cannot be overstated. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and the consequences of falsehood. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:15),
Indeed, the believers are those who believe in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:81), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,
And say: 'Truth has come, and falsehood has departed. Indeed is falsehood, [by nature], ever bound to depart.'
Imam Ali's statement highlights the immense value of truth as a guide in our lives. Truth serves as a compass, leading us towards righteousness and guiding our actions in accordance with the teachings of Islam. It illuminates our path, enabling us to make informed decisions and avoid the pitfalls of falsehood and deception.
When we embrace truth as our guide, we align ourselves with the divine will and purpose. This alignment brings about numerous benefits and blessings in our lives. Truthfulness fosters trust and strengthens relationships, both within the Muslim community and in society at large. It promotes justice, fairness, and accountability, laying the foundation for a just and harmonious society.
Moreover, truthfulness is a quality deeply ingrained in the character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His knowledge and wisdom were unparalleled, and he was known for his unwavering commitment to truth and justice. His life serves as a shining example for Muslims, inspiring us to seek truth in all aspects of our lives and to uphold it even in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the immense value of truth as a guide in our lives. It urges us to seek truth, embrace it, and let it illuminate our path. By doing so, we align ourselves with the divine will and purpose, and we contribute to the betterment of ourselves and society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to recognize and follow the guidance of truth.
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