Hadith #10944

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights one of the essential aspects of piety, which is refraining from committing sins. The word used in the Hadith for refraining is (التَّنَزُّهُ) "tanazzuh", which implies a conscious effort to distance oneself from sinful actions. It signifies a deliberate act of self-restraint and self-discipline.

To understand the significance of this teaching, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of avoiding sins and striving for righteousness. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197, Allah says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights that the ultimate provision for our journey in this world is piety, which includes refraining from sins.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 11, Allah says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse highlights the importance of refraining from sinful behavior such as ridiculing, insulting, and using offensive language. It emphasizes that such actions are contrary to the principles of faith and righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaching aligns perfectly with the Quranic teachings. By refraining from sins, we not only fulfill the prerequisites of piety but also protect ourselves from the negative consequences of sinful actions. Sins have detrimental effects on our spiritual well-being, our relationships with others, and our overall character.

For example, refraining from backbiting, which is a major sin, preserves the unity and harmony within the Muslim community. Allah says in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 12,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse highlights the severity of backbiting and compares it to consuming the flesh of a dead brother, something that is repulsive to us. By refraining from backbiting, we not only avoid sin but also contribute to a healthy and respectful community environment.

Similarly, refraining from dishonesty and cheating preserves the trust and integrity within society. Allah says in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 8,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being just and truthful in our dealings with others. By refraining from dishonesty, we not only fulfill our duty to Allah but also contribute to a just and fair society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaching serves as a reminder for Muslims to constantly evaluate their actions and strive for self-improvement. It encourages us to be mindful of our behavior and to actively avoid engaging in sinful actions. By doing so, we strengthen our relationship with Allah, protect our own spiritual well-being, and contribute to the betterment of our communities.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of refraining from sins as a prerequisite for piety. This teaching aligns with the Quranic emphasis on avoiding sinful behavior and striving for righteousness. By refraining from sins, we protect ourselves from the negative consequences of sinful actions and contribute to the establishment of a righteous and harmonious society. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the strength to refrain from sins.