Hadith #1856

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of self-struggle and self-discipline in the path of obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares this struggle to a battle, where one must fight against their own desires and inclinations, just as an enemy would fight against their adversary. He further advises to overpower the self, just as a rival would overpower their opponent. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes by stating that the strongest person is the one who is able to subdue their own self.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the words used by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The term (jāhid) "جاهِدْ" means to strive or struggle, and it is derived from the root word (jahada) "جَهَدَ", which refers to exerting one's utmost effort. In this context, it signifies the struggle against one's own self. The word (nafsaka) "نَفْسَكَ" refers to the lower self or the ego, which is prone to desires and temptations.

The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares this struggle to a battle, where one must fight against their own self just as an enemy would fight their adversary. This analogy highlights the intensity and seriousness of the struggle. It requires a constant vigilance and determination to overcome the desires and temptations that may lead one astray from the path of obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further advises to overpower the self, just as a rival would overpower their opponent. This implies that the struggle against the self should not be passive, but rather active and assertive. It requires a firm resolve and determination to overcome the lower desires and inclinations. This struggle should be approached with the same level of intensity and determination as one would have in a competitive situation.

The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes by stating that the strongest person is the one who is able to subdue their own self. This statement emphasizes the significance of self-discipline and self-control. The strength of a person is not measured by physical prowess or dominance over others, but rather by their ability to conquer their own desires and inclinations. This inner strength is a reflection of one's faith and commitment to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further understand the importance of self-struggle and self-discipline in Islam, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 29:6)

And whoever strives only strives for [the benefit of] himself. Indeed, Allah is free from need of the worlds

This verse highlights the individual responsibility of striving and struggling in the path of Allah. It is a personal journey that requires self-discipline and self-motivation.

In another verse, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 29:69)

And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good

This verse emphasizes the divine assistance and guidance that is granted to those who strive and struggle in the path of Allah. It is through our own efforts and determination that we can attain closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to constantly engage in self-reflection and self-improvement. It urges us to be vigilant in our actions and intentions, and to strive for self-discipline and self-control. By overcoming our own desires and inclinations, we can attain a higher level of spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This self-struggle is not only a means of personal development, but also a means of attaining the pleasure and nearness of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and determination to engage in this ongoing battle against our own selves.