Hadith #44

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the importance of three interconnected elements: determination, the turning over of thoughts, and guarding secrets. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first word to be examined is (الْحَزْمِ) "al-hazm", which is translated as determination. It refers to the firmness of resolve and the unwavering commitment to a course of action. This quality is highly valued in Islam, as it enables Muslims to face challenges and overcome obstacles in their pursuit of righteousness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran, (46:35)

So be patient, [O Muhammad], as were those of determination among the messengers

This verse emphasizes the importance of determination in the face of adversity.

The second word, (إِجَالَةِ الرَّأْيِ) "ijalat al-ra'i", refers to the turning over of thoughts or the process of contemplation. It signifies the act of carefully considering different perspectives and seeking knowledge before making decisions. The Quran encourages believers to reflect and ponder upon the signs of Allah's creation, as it leads to a deeper understanding of His wisdom and guidance. Allah says, (3:190)

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding

This verse highlights the importance of critical thinking and intellectual engagement.

The third element mentioned in the Hadith is (تَحْصِينِ الاْسْرَارِ) "tahsin al-asrar", which means guarding secrets. It refers to the preservation of confidential information and the protection of private matters. This quality is essential for maintaining trust and fostering strong relationships within the community. The Quran emphasizes the importance of confidentiality when it says, (49:12)

And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is accepting of repentance and Merciful

This verse reminds Muslims to respect the privacy of others and to refrain from spreading rumors or engaging in gossip.

Now, let us explore the connotation behind Imam Ali's statement. The Hadith teaches us that victory is achieved through determination. When we have a firm resolve and unwavering commitment to our goals, we are more likely to overcome challenges and achieve success. This determination is cultivated through the process of turning over our thoughts, contemplating different perspectives, and seeking knowledge. By carefully considering various viewpoints and seeking wisdom, we are better equipped to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions.

Furthermore, the Hadith highlights the importance of guarding secrets. When we protect confidential information and respect the privacy of others, we build trust and strengthen our relationships. This trust is crucial for the unity and harmony of the Muslim community. By upholding the values of confidentiality, we create an environment of openness and trust, where individuals feel safe to share their thoughts and concerns.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of determination, contemplation, and guarding secrets. By embodying these qualities, we can strive for victory in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to be determined, the wisdom to contemplate, and the integrity to guard secrets. May we always seek guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our journey towards righteousness.