مَنْ أطْلَقَ طَرْفَهُ كَثُرَ أسَفُُهُ۔
One who glances [everywhere] freely, his regret increases.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Sight, Observation And Insight)
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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,
Man atlaqa tarafahu kathura asafuhu.
This Hadith highlights the consequences of freely glancing or looking around without restraint. The word "atlaqa" refers to someone who glances or looks freely, without any limitations or control. "Tarafahu" means "everywhere" or "in all directions." And "kathura" means "increases" or "multiplies." Lastly, "asafuhu" refers to regret or sorrow.
To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the consequences of indulging in unnecessary glances and desires. In Surah An-Nur, verse 30, Allah says,
Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do.
This verse emphasizes the importance of lowering our gaze and controlling our desires. By doing so, we protect ourselves from falling into sin and experiencing the regret and sorrow mentioned in the Hadith. When we freely glance at things that are not permissible or indulge in inappropriate desires, our regret increases because we have knowingly disobeyed Allah's commandments.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 32, Allah says,
And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.
This verse reminds us to stay away from anything that may lead us towards sinful actions. When we allow our gaze to wander freely, we are more likely to be tempted by unlawful desires, which can ultimately lead us down a path of immorality and regret.
Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the consequences of freely glancing in this Hadith. By emphasizing the increase in regret, he reminds us of the importance of self-restraint and mindfulness in our actions. When we control our gaze and refrain from indulging in unnecessary desires, we protect ourselves from the negative consequences that come with disobedience to Allah's commands.
This Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to be mindful of their actions and to guard their eyes from wandering freely. By doing so, we can protect ourselves from the regret and sorrow that accompanies disobedience. It is a call to develop self-discipline and to strive for purity in our thoughts and actions.
Let us reflect on the profound wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to lower our gaze, guard our hearts, and seek Allah's forgiveness for any past shortcomings. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to adhere to His commandments and protect us from the consequences of freely glancing.
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