Hadith #4015

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The cornerstone of religion is acquiring good deeds.

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

Firstly, let us examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (ra's) "رَأسُ" means "cornerstone" or "foundation," indicating that acquiring good deeds is the fundamental basis upon which the entire religion stands. The word (iktisab) "اِكْتِسَابُ" means "acquiring" or "gaining," emphasizing the active effort required to accumulate good deeds. And finally, (al-hasanat) "الحَسَنَاتِ" refers to "good deeds" or "righteous actions" that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of acquiring good deeds, we turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of righteous actions. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 277, Allah says,

Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds and performed prayer and given zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.

This verse highlights the inseparable connection between faith and good deeds. It is not enough to merely believe; one must also actively engage in righteous actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse reminds us that while worldly possessions and relationships may bring temporary enjoyment, it is the enduring good deeds that hold true value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The exegesis of this Hadith leads us to reflect on the motivation behind acquiring good deeds. The ultimate motivation should be seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and attaining His mercy and forgiveness. As Allah says in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 21,

Race toward forgiveness from your Lord and a Garden whose width is like the width of the heavens and earth, prepared for those who believed in Allah and His messengers. That is the bounty of Allah which He gives to whom He wills, and Allah is the possessor of great bounty.

Acquiring good deeds not only brings about personal benefits but also has far-reaching consequences for the individual and the society as a whole. Good deeds have the power to inspire others and create a positive ripple effect. As mentioned in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 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.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the importance of acquiring good deeds as the cornerstone of religion. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of all backgrounds that true faith is not limited to mere words or beliefs, but it necessitates active engagement in righteous actions. By striving to acquire good deeds, we not only strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) but also contribute to the betterment of ourselves and society as a whole.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to acquire abundant good deeds and may He accept our efforts. May He guide us to follow the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the righteous companions of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Ameen.