Hadith #4191

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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) emphasizes the importance of avoiding prohibited actions, even if they were not explicitly forbidden by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that if Allah had not forbidden certain things, it would still be obligatory for the intelligent person to refrain from them.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening Hadith of analyzing the key words and concepts within it. The word (nahā) "نَهَى" means to forbid or prohibit, while (mahārimihi) "مَحَارِمِهِ" refers to the things that Allah has deemed unlawful. The term (ʿāqil) "عَاقِلُ" refers to the intelligent or rational individual.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided numerous verses that emphasize the importance of avoiding prohibited actions, even if they are not explicitly mentioned. For example, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:33), Allah says,

Say, 'My Lord has only forbidden immoralities - what is apparent of them and what is concealed - and sin, and oppression without right, and that you associate with Allah that for which He has not sent down authority, and that you say about Allah that which you do not know.'

This verse highlights the comprehensive nature of Allah's prohibitions. It encompasses both the outwardly evident immoralities and those that are hidden. It also includes sins, oppression without justification, and associating partners with Allah. The verse clearly indicates that Allah's prohibition extends beyond what is explicitly mentioned, emphasizing the need for believers to exercise caution and avoid any actions that may lead to disobedience.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hashr (59:7), where Allah says,

And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse emphasizes the authority of the Prophet (ﷺ) in forbidding certain actions. It highlights the importance of adhering to his prohibitions, even if they are not explicitly mentioned in the Quran. This further reinforces the concept mentioned in the Hadith that it is incumbent upon the intelligent individual to abstain from actions that are not explicitly forbidden by Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that the intelligent person should not limit themselves to only what is explicitly prohibited. Rather, they should strive to avoid any actions that may lead to disobedience or harm, even if they are not explicitly mentioned as forbidden. This mindset reflects the deep understanding and knowledge possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), as he recognized the importance of adhering to the spirit of the law, not just its letter.

By adhering to this principle, Muslims can safeguard themselves from falling into sin and transgression. It encourages believers to be proactive in their approach to righteousness and to constantly strive for self-improvement. It also highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding the underlying principles of Islamic teachings, as this enables individuals to make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to go beyond the mere observance of explicit prohibitions. It urges us to exercise caution and avoid any actions that may lead to disobedience or harm, even if they are not explicitly mentioned as forbidden by Allah. By doing so, we can strive for a higher level of piety and righteousness, and ultimately attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).