Hadith #3998

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,

الدين يصد عن المحارم

which translates to

Religion deters [one] from the unlawful.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims in their pursuit of righteousness and adherence to the teachings of Islam.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (ad-deen) "الدين" refers to the comprehensive system of beliefs, practices, and values that constitute Islam. It encompasses not only acts of worship but also moral conduct, social interactions, and personal development. (yusadd) "يصد" means to prevent, hinder, or deter. And (al-muharram) "المحارم" refers to the forbidden or unlawful actions and behaviors in Islam.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance for all Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of adhering to the boundaries set by Him and avoiding what is forbidden. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:157), Allah says,

Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered prophet, whom they find written in what they have of the Torah and the Gospel, who enjoins upon them what is right and forbids them what is wrong and makes lawful for them the good things and prohibits for them the evil and relieves them of their burden and the shackles which were upon them. So they who have believed in him, honored him, supported him and followed the light which was sent down with him - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the role of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as the ultimate guide, who enjoins what is right and forbids what is wrong. The religion of Islam, as taught by the Prophet and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), serves as a deterrent from engaging in unlawful actions. It provides clear guidelines and principles that protect individuals from falling into sin and transgression.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:32), Allah warns,

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding immoral acts, such as adultery and fornication, which are strictly prohibited in Islam. The religion acts as a shield, preventing Muslims from engaging in such sinful behavior.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that religion is not merely a set of rituals or beliefs, but a comprehensive system that guides Muslims in every aspect of their lives. It acts as a deterrent, preventing them from indulging in the forbidden and steering them towards righteousness. By adhering to the teachings of Islam, Muslims are protected from the negative consequences that arise from engaging in unlawful actions.

For example, the prohibition of backbiting and slander in Islam serves to maintain harmony and unity within the community. Allah says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12),

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

By deterring Muslims from engaging in backbiting, Islam promotes a culture of respect, trust, and goodwill among individuals.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the role of religion in deterring Muslims from engaging in unlawful actions. It serves as a comprehensive guide, providing clear boundaries and principles that protect individuals from the negative consequences of sin and transgression. By adhering to the teachings of Islam, Muslims are able to lead righteous lives and maintain a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to follow the path of righteousness and protect us from the temptations of the unlawful.