Hadith #8005

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ غَضَّ طَرْفَهُ قَلَّ أسَفُهُ وأمِنَ تَلَفُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One who lowers his gaze, his regret reduces and he is saved from harm.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words. The word (ghadda) "غَضَّ" means to lower or cast down, and (tarfahu) "طَرْفَهُ" refers to one's gaze or sight. (asafuhu) "أسَفُهُ" signifies regret or sorrow, and (talafuhu) "تَلَفُهُ" denotes harm or affliction.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of lowering one's gaze, which refers to refraining from looking at anything that is inappropriate or forbidden. By doing so, one not only protects their own modesty and purity, but also safeguards their heart and soul from the negative consequences of indulging in sinful sights.

The Quran supports this concept of lowering the gaze in several verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nur (24:30),

Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do.

This verse clearly instructs the believers, both men and women, to lower their gaze as a means of preserving their chastity and purity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:50), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Knowing.

This verse highlights the importance of turning away from harmful situations and relying on Allah's guidance and protection.

The exegesis of this Hadith reveals profound wisdom and guidance. When a person lowers their gaze, they not only avoid sinful sights, but they also protect themselves from the regret and sorrow that often accompanies indulging in such actions. By exercising self-control and guarding their eyes, they are able to maintain their inner peace and tranquility.

Moreover, by lowering their gaze, individuals are saved from the harm and negative consequences that can arise from engaging in forbidden acts. This includes the harm inflicted upon the soul, the damage to one's reputation, and the potential negative impact on relationships and society as a whole.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of this practice as a means of self-preservation and spiritual growth. His profound knowledge and understanding of human nature led him to emphasize the significance of controlling one's gaze and protecting oneself from the harmful influences of the world.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of lowering our gaze and refraining from looking at that which is forbidden. By doing so, we can reduce our regrets, protect ourselves from harm, and maintain our inner peace and purity. Let us strive to implement this teaching in our lives and seek Allah's guidance and protection in all matters. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to follow the path of righteousness.