Hadith #581

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 and noble family, and his righteous companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to aspire for what Allah has promised the God-wary, as the truest promises are those made by Allah. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (irghabu) "إرْغَبُوا" in the Hadith means to aspire or desire earnestly. It implies a strong longing and eagerness to attain something. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is encouraging Muslims to have a deep yearning for what Allah has promised to the God-wary.

The phrase (fima wa'ada Allah al-muttaqeen)

فيما وَعَدَ اللّهُ المُتَّقينَ

refers to the promises that Allah has made to the God-wary. The God-wary are those who fear Allah, are conscious of His presence, and strive to avoid sins and disobedience. They are the ones who have purified their hearts and souls, seeking nearness to Allah through their actions and intentions.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Yunus, verse 64:

(Quran 10:64)

Indeed, for the righteous with their Lord are the Gardens of Pleasure.

This verse highlights the promise of Paradise for the righteous believers. It is a reminder that the ultimate reward for the God-wary is the eternal bliss and tranquility of Paradise. By aspiring for this promise, Muslims are motivated to lead a righteous life and strive for excellence in their faith and deeds.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hajj, verse 52:

(Quran 22:52)

Never did We send a messenger or a prophet before you, but when he recited the message Satan proposed [evil] desires in respect of that which he recited thereof. But Allah abolishes that which Satan proposes; then Allah makes His verses precise. And Allah is Knowing and Wise.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's promises and rejecting the temptations of Satan. It reminds us that Satan will always try to divert us from the path of righteousness and lead us astray. However, Allah, in His infinite wisdom, nullifies the evil suggestions of Satan and establishes His own promises. Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to focus on the promises of Allah and strive to attain them, rather than being swayed by the temporary allurements of this world.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages Muslims to have a strong desire for the promises of Allah because they serve as a source of motivation and guidance in our lives. By aspiring for what Allah has promised the God-wary, we are reminded of the ultimate purpose of our existence and the rewards that await us in the Hereafter.

This Hadith also highlights the unwavering trust and belief in the promises of Allah. The phrase (fa inna asdaq al-wa'di miaaduhu)

فإنّ أصْدَقَ الوَعْدِ ميعادُهُ

signifies that the promises of Allah are the truest and most reliable. Allah never breaks His promises, and His words are always fulfilled. This reassurance should strengthen our faith and encourage us to strive for righteousness, knowing that Allah's promises are certain and will be fulfilled at their appointed time.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims to aspire for what Allah has promised the God-wary. By seeking the promises of Allah, we are motivated to lead a righteous life and strive for excellence in our faith and actions. The promises of Allah serve as a source of guidance, motivation, and reassurance for believers. Let us hold firmly to these promises and strive to attain them, for they are the truest promises, and Allah never fails to fulfill His word. May Allah grant us the ability to aspire for His promises and attain His pleasure.