Hadith #4955

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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 طَلَبَ السَّلامَةَ لَزِمَ الاِسْتِقامَةَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who seeks security remains steadfast [on the straight path].

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this beautiful saying in light of the Quran.

The word (salama) "سَلَامَةَ" in this Hadith refers to security, safety, and peace. It encompasses both physical and spiritual well-being. It is the state of being free from harm, danger, and turmoil. Seeking (salama) "السَّلَامَةَ" implies striving for a life of tranquility, harmony, and righteousness.

The word (istiqama) "اِسْتِقَامَةَ" in this Hadith refers to steadfastness, uprightness, and adherence to the straight path. It signifies maintaining a consistent and unwavering commitment to righteousness, truth, and obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is the state of remaining firm and steadfast in the face of challenges, temptations, and distractions.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of seeking security and remaining steadfast on the straight path. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:208),

O you who have believed, enter into peace completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.

This verse highlights the significance of seeking peace and security in its entirety, without compromising one's faith or falling into the traps of Satan.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am (6:82), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And they who believe and do not mix their belief with injustice - those will have security, and they are [rightly] guided.

This verse emphasizes that true security can only be attained by combining faith with justice. It is through upholding justice and righteousness that one can attain both worldly and spiritual security.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that seeking security is not an end in itself, but rather a means to remain steadfast on the straight path. When we strive for security, we are essentially striving for a life of righteousness, obedience, and adherence to the teachings of Islam. It is through seeking security that we protect ourselves from the harms and distractions that may lead us astray.

By remaining steadfast on the straight path, we ensure that our actions, beliefs, and intentions align with the guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). We resist the temptations and trials that may sway us from the path of righteousness. This steadfastness is a reflection of our commitment to Allah and our unwavering trust in His wisdom and guidance.

The consequences of seeking security and remaining steadfast on the straight path are manifold. Firstly, it brings inner peace and contentment to the believer. It provides a sense of purpose and direction in life, allowing us to navigate through the challenges and uncertainties with confidence and resilience. Secondly, it strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and earns His pleasure and blessings. Allah promises in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77),

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

Moreover, seeking security and remaining steadfast on the straight path serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for others. Our commitment to righteousness and our unwavering faith can inspire those around us to strive for the same. It becomes a means of spreading goodness and inviting others towards the path of truth and righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of seeking security and remaining steadfast on the straight path. It is through this pursuit that we can attain both worldly and spiritual well-being. By aligning our actions and intentions with the teachings of Islam, we can find inner peace, strengthen our relationship with Allah, and inspire others to follow the path of righteousness. May Allah grant us the ability to seek security and remain steadfast on the straight path.