Hadith #1849

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Verily if you struggle against your [lower] self you will obtain the pleasure of Allah.

This impactful saying emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and self-control in order to attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (jahadta) "جاهَدْتَ" is derived from the root word (jahada) "جَهَدَ", which means to strive or struggle. It refers to the internal struggle against one's own desires and temptations. The word (nafsaka) "نَفْسَكَ" means oneself or one's own self. It represents the lower self, which is prone to evil inclinations and desires. Finally, the word (huzta) "حُزْتَ" means to obtain or achieve.

This Hadith is in line with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and self-control. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155),

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse highlights the need for patience and self-control in times of hardship and adversity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Asr (103:2-3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse emphasizes the importance of righteous actions and mutual advice in the pursuit of truth and patience.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that the struggle against one's lower self is a necessary prerequisite for attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It highlights the significance of self-discipline in resisting temptations and desires that may lead one astray from the path of righteousness.

When we engage in this internal struggle, we are actively seeking to align our actions and intentions with the teachings of Islam. By exerting effort to overcome our base desires and inclinations, we are demonstrating our commitment to pleasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving for spiritual growth.

This struggle against the lower self can manifest in various forms. It may involve refraining from engaging in sinful behaviors, controlling our anger, practicing patience in difficult situations, or striving to improve our character and morals. It requires constant self-reflection, self-evaluation, and self-correction.

The motivation behind this struggle is the desire to attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to seek His forgiveness and mercy. We are reminded in the Quran that those who strive in the path of Allah will be rewarded abundantly. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Insan (76:22),

Indeed, this is for you a reward, and your effort has been appreciated.

The consequences of engaging in this struggle are both immediate and long-term. In the short term, it may require sacrificing immediate gratification for the sake of long-term spiritual growth. It may involve resisting temptations and desires that may lead to sin and disobedience. However, in the long term, the reward is the pleasure and satisfaction of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), which is the ultimate goal of every believer.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the exemplary character and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His deep understanding of the Quran and his unwavering commitment to the teachings of Islam serve as an inspiration for Muslims of all generations. He exemplified the struggle against the lower self through his piety, justice, and unwavering devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of struggling against one's lower self in order to attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It highlights the significance of self-discipline, self-control, and self-correction in the pursuit of righteousness. By engaging in this internal struggle, we strive to align our actions and intentions with the teachings of Islam, seeking the ultimate reward of Allah's pleasure. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to overcome our lower selves and attain His pleasure.