Hadith #1844

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble family, and his righteous companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes two important aspects that Muslims should strive to maintain until the end: struggling against one's own desires and obeying those in authority. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (مُجاهَدَةُ) "mujahada" refers to the struggle or striving against one's own self. It entails the constant effort to resist and overcome our base desires and inclinations. This struggle is not limited to physical combat, but rather encompasses the internal battle against temptations, vices, and ego-driven tendencies. It requires self-discipline, self-control, and a conscious effort to align our actions with the teachings of Islam.

The Quran beautifully emphasizes the importance of self-struggle in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, 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 highlights that those who strive and struggle for the sake of Allah will be guided by Him. It is through this struggle that we purify our hearts and draw closer to our Creator.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (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 that the struggle against one's own desires is a means of attaining righteousness and closeness to Allah.

The second aspect highlighted in the Hadith is obedience to those in authority. The phrase (طاعَةُ أُولِي الأَمْرِ مِنْكُمْ)

obedience to those who have authority among you

refers to the obligation of following and obeying the rightful leaders and authorities within the Muslim community. This includes both religious and worldly leaders who uphold justice, promote the welfare of the people, and guide them according to the teachings of Islam.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of obeying those in authority. In Surah An-Nisa, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:59)

O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you.

This verse clearly instructs Muslims to obey both Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ), as well as those in authority. By obeying the rightful leaders, we ensure the unity and stability of the Muslim community.

Moreover, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 4:59)

O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you.

This verse emphasizes that obedience to those in authority is an integral part of our faith and submission to Allah's commands.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize self-struggle and obedience to those in authority. By engaging in mujahada, we strive to purify our souls, overcome our weaknesses, and align our actions with the teachings of Islam. This internal struggle leads to personal growth and spiritual development.

Simultaneously, obedience to those in authority ensures the establishment of a just and harmonious society. It is through this obedience that we maintain unity, uphold the principles of Islam, and work towards the betterment of our communities. By following the guidance of our leaders, we contribute to the overall welfare and progress of the Muslim ummah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of self-struggle and obedience to those in authority. Through mujahada, we strive to overcome our own desires and align ourselves with the teachings of Islam. By obeying those in authority, we contribute to the unity and progress of the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to engage in this struggle and fulfill our obligations as Muslims.