Hadith #6358

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "قَدْ يُصابُ المُسْتَظْهِرُ۔" This can be translated as,

The one who is precautious may [also at times] get afflicted.

Let us delve into the connotation of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (mustazhir) "مُسْتَظْهِرُ" is derived from the root word (zahara) "ظَهَرَ", which means to be cautious, to take precautions, or to be vigilant. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the fact that even those who are careful and take necessary precautions in life may still face difficulties and challenges. This Hadith serves as a reminder that being precautious does not guarantee a life free from afflictions.

The Quran provides us with numerous examples of individuals who were righteous, pious, and cautious, yet they faced trials and tribulations. Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was a person of great virtue and righteousness, yet he was thrown into a well by his own brothers and later faced false accusations and imprisonment. Despite his righteousness, he was not immune to the trials of life.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155),

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse reminds us that trials and difficulties are a part of life, and they can affect anyone, regardless of their level of caution or righteousness.

Another verse that supports the meaning of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:2), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried?

This verse emphasizes that being tested and facing challenges is an integral part of faith. It is through these trials that our true faith and steadfastness are tested and strengthened.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the reality of life. No matter how cautious or careful we are, we cannot completely avoid difficulties and hardships. However, it is important to note that being precautious is still a virtue and a means of protection. It is a way of fulfilling our responsibilities and taking the necessary steps to avoid harm.

This Hadith serves as a reminder that even if we take all the precautions in the world, we may still face challenges. It teaches us to be patient and steadfast in the face of adversity, knowing that these trials are a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It also reminds us not to become complacent or arrogant due to our cautiousness, as we are ultimately reliant on the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that even the most precautious individuals may still face afflictions in life. It is a reminder to remain patient, steadfast, and reliant on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) during times of difficulty. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to face the challenges of life with patience and faith.