Hadith #4560

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لِيَكُنْ زادُكَ التَّقوى۔" which translates to

Let your provision be God-wariness.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of God-wariness, or taqwa, as the ultimate provision for a Muslim in this world and the Hereafter.

The word (zaduka) "زادُكَ" in the Hadith refers to one's provision or sustenance. It encompasses not only material possessions but also spiritual nourishment. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is advising Muslims to prioritize and focus on acquiring taqwa as their primary provision in life. Taqwa is a comprehensive concept that encompasses consciousness of Allah, fear of displeasing Him, and striving to adhere to His commands and avoid His prohibitions.

The importance of taqwa is emphasized throughout the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 3:102)

O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared and do not die except as Muslims [in submission to Him].

This verse highlights the significance of taqwa as a fundamental aspect of faith and reminds Muslims to maintain it until their last breath.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous [taqwa] of you.

This verse emphasizes that the true measure of nobility and superiority lies in one's level of taqwa. It is not based on wealth, lineage, or worldly achievements, but rather on the level of consciousness and righteousness one possesses.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual development and strive for taqwa in all aspects of their lives. By making taqwa their provision, Muslims ensure that they are equipped with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges of this world and attain success in the Hereafter.

When one's provision is taqwa, it influences their actions, decisions, and interactions with others. It motivates them to fulfill their obligations towards Allah and His creation. For example, a person with taqwa will be mindful of their prayers, fulfill their duties towards their family and society, and abstain from sinful acts. They will strive to embody the qualities of honesty, justice, and compassion in their daily lives.

The consequences of prioritizing taqwa as one's provision are numerous. Firstly, it brings about a sense of inner peace and tranquility. When a person is conscious of Allah's presence and seeks to please Him, they experience a deep sense of contentment and fulfillment. Secondly, taqwa serves as a shield against wrongdoing and temptation. It acts as a safeguard, protecting individuals from falling into sinful behavior and harmful actions.

Moreover, taqwa leads to the development of a strong moral character. It cultivates virtues such as patience, gratitude, humility, and self-discipline. These qualities enable individuals to navigate the challenges of life with resilience and grace. Additionally, taqwa strengthens the bond between the individual and Allah, fostering a deep connection and reliance on Him. It opens the doors of divine guidance and blessings, as Allah promises in the Quran, (Quran 65:2-3)

And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out and will provide for him from where he does not expect.

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, Muslims are reminded to evaluate their priorities and ensure that their provision is rooted in taqwa. Material possessions and worldly achievements may come and go, but taqwa is an everlasting provision that will benefit them in this life and the Hereafter. By nurturing taqwa, Muslims can strive towards becoming righteous individuals who are pleasing to Allah and a source of benefit to humanity.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to make taqwa our provision and guide us on the path of righteousness. Ameen.