Hadith #9877

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

In this profound Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes the noble qualities of al-Ashtar al-Nakha‘ī, one of his loyal companions. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) begins by stating that al-Ashtar is the "sword of Allah." This metaphorical expression signifies that al-Ashtar is a powerful and effective instrument in the cause of Allah, just as a sword is a symbol of strength and authority.

The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further elaborates on the qualities of al-Ashtar by stating that he

does not fail to strike.

This implies that al-Ashtar is resolute and unwavering in his commitment to the truth and justice. He does not hesitate or falter when it comes to taking action against wrongdoing or defending the oppressed. Al-Ashtar's unwavering determination and courage are reminiscent of the verse in the Quran where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:190)

And fight in the cause of Allah against those who fight against you, but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also states that al-Ashtar's sword is

not blunt in its edge.

This signifies that al-Ashtar possesses sharp intellect and wisdom. He is not easily deceived or misled by false ideologies or temptations. His knowledge and understanding of the teachings of Islam enable him to discern between truth and falsehood. This quality is reminiscent of the verse in the Quran where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 47:19)

So know, [O Muhammad], that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and believing women. And Allah knows of your movement and your resting place.

Furthermore, the Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions that al-Ashtar is

not impressed by any innovations.

This highlights al-Ashtar's steadfastness in adhering to the authentic teachings of Islam and his resistance to any form of deviation or innovation. He remains firm in his faith and does not succumb to the pressures of societal trends or popular opinions. This quality is reminiscent of the verse in the Quran where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 3:103)

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you - when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided.

Lastly, the Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that al-Ashtar is

not led astray by misguidance [and temptation].

This signifies that al-Ashtar possesses a strong sense of righteousness and is immune to the allure of sinful desires. He remains steadfast in his obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and does not allow himself to be swayed by worldly temptations. This quality is reminiscent of the verse in the Quran where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 50:16)

And We have certainly created man and We know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for all Muslims to strive for the qualities exhibited by al-Ashtar al-Nakha‘ī. We should be resolute in our commitment to the truth, possess sharp intellect and wisdom, remain steadfast in adhering to the authentic teachings of Islam, and be immune to the temptations of this world. By embodying these qualities, we can become effective instruments in the cause of Allah and contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and his noble companions.