Hadith #453

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Self-sacrifice is the greatest worship and the most sublime eminence.

Let us delve into the significance of this statement in light of the Quran.

First, let us understand the important words in this Hadith. "Al-Ithar" refers to self-sacrifice or preferring others over oneself. It is an act of putting the needs and interests of others before our own. "Afḍal" means the greatest or the best, and "ʾajallu" means the most sublime or the most excellent.

The Quran emphasizes the virtue of self-sacrifice in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9):

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home (i.e., Medina) and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the selflessness of the Ansar (the residents of Medina) who welcomed and supported the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Mecca). Despite their own needs and hardships, they preferred the well-being of their fellow Muslims. This act of self-sacrifice is praised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and is considered a characteristic of successful believers.

Another verse that emphasizes self-sacrifice is found in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9):

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

This verse describes the righteous believers who selflessly provide food to those in need, without expecting anything in return. Their motivation is solely to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to fulfill their duty towards their fellow human beings. This act of self-sacrifice is a form of worship that is highly esteemed in Islam.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes that self-sacrifice is not only a form of worship but also the most sublime eminence. This means that it is the highest level of excellence and honor that one can attain. When we prioritize the needs of others and put their interests before our own, we elevate ourselves spiritually and morally.

Self-sacrifice has profound consequences in our lives as Muslims. It strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community. It fosters a sense of unity, compassion, and empathy among believers. By practicing self-sacrifice, we emulate the noble example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who dedicated their lives to serving humanity.

Self-sacrifice also has a transformative effect on our own souls. It purifies our intentions and helps us overcome selfish desires and egoism. It instills within us a sense of gratitude and contentment, as we realize the blessings we have been bestowed with and the responsibility we have to share those blessings with others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that self-sacrifice is not only the greatest form of worship but also the most sublime eminence. By prioritizing the needs of others and putting their interests before our own, we embody the true spirit of Islam. Let us strive to cultivate this virtue in our lives and emulate the selflessness of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice self-sacrifice and attain the highest levels of excellence in our worship and character.