Hadith #3432

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

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

لَنْ يُجزى جَزاءَ الخَيْرِ إلاَّ فاعِلُهُ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the principle that the reward for a good action will only be given to the one who performs it. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful saying in light of the Quran.

The word (jaza') "جَزاءَ" in the Hadith refers to the reward or recompense that one receives for their actions. It signifies the consequences, whether positive or negative, that follow an individual's deeds. The word (al-khayr) "الخَيْرِ" refers to any act of goodness, righteousness, or virtue. It encompasses all actions that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and beneficial to others.

The Hadith highlights the concept of individual responsibility and accountability in Islam. It affirms that the reward for a good action is exclusively reserved for the one who performs it. This means that no one can claim the reward of another person's good deeds, regardless of their relationship or affiliation. Each individual is responsible for their own actions and will be recompensed accordingly.

This principle is firmly rooted in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Isra (17:80),

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse emphasizes the individual's personal relationship with Allah and their own efforts in seeking His guidance and support.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Najm (53:39-41), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And that man can have nothing but what he strives for; And that his striving will soon be seen; Then shall he be rewarded for it with the fullest reward.

These verses highlight the importance of personal effort and striving in the path of righteousness. The reward is directly linked to one's own endeavors and actions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims that they cannot rely on the good deeds of others to attain salvation. Each individual must actively engage in performing good actions and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encourages self-reflection and introspection, urging Muslims to take responsibility for their own spiritual growth and development.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of sincerity in one's actions. The reward is not merely based on the outward appearance of a good deed but is contingent upon the intention and sincerity behind it. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Mulk (67:2),

Who created death and life that He may try you, which of you is best in deed.

This verse emphasizes the significance of the inner state and intention of an individual when performing good actions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims that they will be rewarded for their own efforts and actions. It emphasizes the principle of individual responsibility and accountability in Islam. By understanding this concept and striving to perform good deeds with sincerity, Muslims can actively work towards their own spiritual growth and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the ability to perform good actions that are pleasing to Him.