Hadith #1335

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ يُؤمِنْ يَزْدَدْ يَقيناً۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

One who believes increases his certitude.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this amazing Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (yu'min) "يُؤمِنْ" in the Hadith is derived from the root word (amana) "أمَنَ", which means to believe, have faith, or trust. It signifies a strong conviction and acceptance of the truth. In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of belief in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:4), Allah says,

And who believe in what has been revealed to you, [O Muhammad], and what was revealed before you.

This verse highlights the significance of believing in the divine revelations and teachings.

The word (yazdad) "يَزْدَدْ" in the Hadith is derived from the root word (ziyada) "زِيَادَة", which means to increase or grow. It implies that belief is not stagnant; rather, it has the potential to grow and strengthen over time. This concept is beautifully expressed in the Quran in Surah Al-Anfal (8:2), where Allah says,

Indeed, the believers are those whose hearts tremble with fear when Allah is mentioned, and when His verses are recited to them, it increases them in faith.

This verse highlights that the believers' faith is not static but rather increases when they are reminded of Allah and His revelations.

The word (yaqinan) "يَقيناً" in the Hadith is derived from the root word (yaqin) "يَقِين", which means certainty or conviction. It signifies a deep and unwavering belief in the truth. In the Quran, Allah emphasizes the importance of certainty in faith. For example, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:15), Allah says,

Indeed, the believers are only those who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful.

This verse highlights that true believers are those who have complete certainty in their faith and do not waver in their commitment to Allah and His Messenger.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that belief is not a static state but a continuous journey. When one embraces faith, it becomes a catalyst for increasing their certitude. As Muslims, our faith should not remain stagnant; rather, it should constantly grow and strengthen.

Belief in Islam is not merely a passive acceptance of certain principles; it is an active and dynamic process. It requires continuous learning, reflection, and application of the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The more we deepen our understanding of Islam, the stronger our conviction becomes. This increased certitude empowers us to face challenges, overcome doubts, and remain steadfast in our faith.

When we believe in Allah and His Messenger, we open ourselves to a world of knowledge and guidance. The Quran is a source of divine wisdom, and it provides us with countless examples and lessons to strengthen our faith. For example, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:62), Allah says,

And if they intend to deceive you - then indeed, Allah is sufficient for you. It is He who supported you with His help and with the believers.

This verse reminds us that Allah is always there to support and guide us, and our belief in Him increases our certitude in His assistance.

Furthermore, the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) serve as role models for us in increasing our certitude. Their unwavering faith, sacrifices, and dedication to the cause of Islam are exemplary. For instance, Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه) displayed immense certitude when he stood firm during the Battle of Badr, despite being outnumbered and facing great adversity. His belief in Allah and His Messenger increased his certitude and led to the ultimate victory of the Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that belief is not a static state but a continuous journey of growth and increasing certitude. As Muslims, we should strive to deepen our understanding of Islam, reflect on the teachings of the Quran, and follow the examples of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions. By doing so, we can strengthen our faith and experience the transformative power of belief in our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) increase our certitude and grant us the ability to live our lives in accordance with His guidance.