Hadith #1244

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of three actions that are considered signs of faith and religiousness. These actions are: lowering one's voice, casting down one's gaze, and walking with modesty. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in the light of the Quran.

Firstly, "lowering your voice" refers to speaking softly and avoiding loud and boastful speech. This act demonstrates humility, respect, and consideration towards others. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran, (Surah Luqman, 31:19)

And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice; indeed, the most disagreeable of sounds is the voice of donkeys.

By lowering our voices, we create an atmosphere of tranquility and peace, allowing for effective communication and fostering a sense of harmony among individuals. This action also reflects our recognition of Allah's authority and our submission to His commandments.

Secondly,

casting down your gaze

refers to averting one's eyes from that which is forbidden, such as looking at the opposite gender with lustful intentions. This act of modesty and self-control safeguards our hearts and minds from impure thoughts and desires. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises in the Quran, (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.

By casting down our gaze, we protect ourselves from falling into sin and maintain our purity of heart. It also demonstrates our respect for the boundaries set by Allah and our commitment to upholding modesty in our interactions with others.

Lastly, "walking with modesty" refers to adopting a humble and dignified manner of walking. It signifies a balanced approach in our conduct, avoiding arrogance and ostentation. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Surah Al-Isra, 17:37)

And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.

By walking with modesty, we display our recognition of our own limitations and our acknowledgment of Allah's greatness. It also reflects our commitment to humility and our rejection of pride and arrogance.

These three actions, as mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), are interconnected and serve as indicators of one's faith and religiousness. When we lower our voice, cast down our gaze, and walk with modesty, we cultivate an environment of respect, purity, and humility. These actions not only benefit our own spiritual growth but also contribute to the well-being of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of embodying these qualities in our daily lives. By lowering our voice, casting down our gaze, and walking with modesty, we demonstrate our commitment to faith and religiousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to implement these teachings in our lives and may He bless us with true faith and piety.