Hadith #2033

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) emphasizes the importance of not fighting against those who seek refuge in religion. The word (do not fight) "لا تحارب" signifies the prohibition of engaging in physical combat or conflict with individuals who turn to religion for protection and guidance. The phrase (the one who seeks refuge in religion) "من يعتصم بالدين" refers to someone who seeks solace, support, and guidance in their faith.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of protecting places of worship and ensuring the safety of those who seek refuge in them. In Surah Al-Hajj, verse 40, Allah says,

If Allah had not repelled some people by means of others, monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, where Allah's name is often mentioned, would have been destroyed.

This verse highlights the sanctity of religious spaces and the need to protect those who seek refuge in them.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us the importance of respecting the beliefs and practices of others. In Surah Al-Kafirun, Allah says,

To you, your religion, and to me, mine.

This verse emphasizes the principle of religious tolerance and encourages Muslims to coexist peacefully with people of different faiths.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the consequences of fighting against those who seek refuge in religion. It states that

one who combats religion is ruined.

This means that those who engage in hostility towards individuals seeking solace in their faith will ultimately face ruin and destruction. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims to uphold the principles of tolerance, respect, and peaceful coexistence.

The motivation behind this Hadith is to promote harmony and understanding among people of different faiths. By refraining from fighting against those who seek refuge in religion, Muslims can foster an environment of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. This Hadith encourages Muslims to engage in dialogue and seek common ground with individuals of different beliefs, rather than resorting to conflict and violence.

The consequences of disregarding this Hadith are grave. When individuals or communities engage in combat against religion, they not only harm others but also bring ruin upon themselves. History is replete with examples of societies that have suffered as a result of religious persecution and intolerance. By adhering to the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith, Muslims can contribute to the establishment of a just and peaceful society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims of the importance of not fighting against those who seek refuge in religion. It emphasizes the need for religious tolerance, respect, and peaceful coexistence. By adhering to this Hadith, Muslims can contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society, in line with the teachings of the Quran. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of peace and understanding.