Hadith #5435

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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, "الشَّوْقُ شيمَةُ المُوقِنينَ۔" This can be translated as,

Longing [for Allah and the Hereafter] is from the qualities of those who have certitude.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in the light of the Quran.

The word (shawq) "شوق" in Arabic refers to a deep and intense longing or yearning. It is a feeling of intense desire and eagerness towards something. In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of this longing, specifically in relation to Allah and the Hereafter.

To understand the significance of this longing, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:82)

And those who believe and do righteous deeds - We will surely assign to them Paradise beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide eternally. Excellent is the reward of the [righteous] workers

This verse emphasizes the importance of belief and righteous actions, which are the foundations of certitude. It is through this certitude that the believers develop a deep longing for the Hereafter, knowing that their efforts will be rewarded with eternal bliss in Paradise.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 17:80)

And say, 'My Lord, cause me to enter a sound entrance and to exit a sound exit and grant me from Yourself a supporting authority'

This verse highlights the supplication of Prophet Musa (Moses) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) to Allah, expressing his longing for divine guidance and support. It exemplifies the concept of longing for Allah's assistance and guidance, which is an essential aspect of the believers' journey towards certitude.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that this longing is a quality of those who have certitude. Certitude, or (al-Iman) "الإيمان", is not merely a superficial belief, but a deep-rooted conviction in the heart. It is a state of complete trust and reliance on Allah, accompanied by righteous actions.

When a believer possesses true certitude, their heart is filled with a burning desire to draw closer to Allah and attain His pleasure. This longing manifests in various ways, such as yearning for the remembrance of Allah, striving to perform acts of worship, and seeking knowledge to deepen their understanding of the religion.

For example, a person with certitude may long to perform the night prayer (Tahajjud) to seek closeness to Allah and gain His forgiveness. They may yearn to recite the Quran, pondering over its verses and seeking guidance from its wisdom. This longing motivates them to engage in acts of charity, kindness, and compassion towards others, as they understand the importance of fulfilling their responsibilities towards fellow human beings.

This longing for Allah and the Hereafter also has profound consequences in the life of a believer. It serves as a driving force that keeps them steadfast in the face of challenges and trials. It provides them with the strength to resist temptations and avoid sinful actions, as they are constantly reminded of the eternal rewards that await them in the Hereafter.

Moreover, this longing acts as a source of solace and comfort during times of hardship and adversity. It reminds the believer that their ultimate goal is not the fleeting pleasures of this world, but the eternal bliss in the presence of Allah. This perspective helps them maintain a positive outlook and find contentment in the face of difficulties.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of longing for Allah and the Hereafter as a quality of those who have certitude. This longing is a reflection of the believers' deep-rooted conviction and serves as a driving force in their journey towards attaining closeness to Allah. It motivates them to engage in righteous actions, seek knowledge, and strive for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. May Allah grant us all the ability to develop this longing and strengthen our certitude.