Hadith #6772

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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:

مَنِ اعْتَزَلَ سَلِمَ وَرَعُهُ۔

which can be translated as

Whoever secludes himself, his piety remains safeguarded.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of seclusion and solitude in preserving one's piety.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (ita'zala) "اعْتَزَلَ" refers to seclusion or withdrawal from society. It implies distancing oneself from worldly distractions and focusing on spiritual growth. The word (salima) "سَلِمَ" means to be safe or secure, signifying the preservation of one's faith and righteousness. Lastly, (wara'uhu) "وَرَعُهُ" refers to one's piety, consciousness, and fear of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of seclusion in preserving piety, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:45):

Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do.

This verse highlights the importance of prayer and remembrance of Allah in restraining oneself from immoral acts. Seclusion provides an environment conducive to prayer and remembrance, shielding one from the temptations of the world.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:16), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Has the time not come for those who have believed that their hearts should become humbly submissive at the remembrance of Allah and what has come down of the truth?

This verse emphasizes the need for believers to humble themselves and submit to the remembrance of Allah. Seclusion allows individuals to detach from worldly distractions and focus solely on the remembrance of Allah, leading to a deeper connection with Him.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the benefits of seclusion. When a person secludes themselves, they are able to protect and preserve their piety. By withdrawing from the hustle and bustle of society, one can reflect on their actions, strengthen their relationship with Allah, and increase their consciousness of Him. Seclusion provides an opportunity for self-reflection, self-improvement, and spiritual growth.

For example, imagine a person who regularly engages in social gatherings and is constantly surrounded by worldly distractions. Their focus may shift away from their spiritual obligations, and they may become susceptible to negative influences. However, if that person chooses to seclude themselves for a period of time, they can regain their spiritual focus, reassess their priorities, and strengthen their piety.

Moreover, seclusion can also serve as a means of protection from the negative influences of society. In a world filled with temptations and moral challenges, seclusion acts as a shield, safeguarding one's faith and righteousness. It allows individuals to distance themselves from harmful environments and influences, enabling them to maintain their piety and protect their spiritual well-being.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seclusion in preserving one's piety. By withdrawing from society and its distractions, individuals can focus on their spiritual growth, strengthen their relationship with Allah, and protect themselves from negative influences. Seclusion provides an opportunity for self-reflection, self-improvement, and spiritual rejuvenation. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to seek moments of seclusion to safeguard our piety.