Hadith #1400

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,

المُتَأَنِّي مُصِيبٌ وإنْ هَلَكَ

which translates to

The one who acts with deliberateness is successful even if he perishes.

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of intention and purposeful action in attaining success, even if one faces difficulties or sacrifices their life in the process.

To delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze its key words. The word (al-muta'anni) "المُتَأَنِّي" refers to someone who acts with deliberation, thoughtfulness, and careful consideration. This individual is not impulsive or hasty in their actions, but rather takes the time to evaluate the consequences and benefits of their choices. The word (musib) "مُصِيبٌ" means successful or prosperous, while (in halaka) "إنْ هَلَكَ" signifies perishing or facing destruction.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 195:

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

This verse emphasizes the importance of thoughtful preparation and deliberation in our actions. Just as one takes provisions for a journey, the best provision for success is Taqwa (God-consciousness) and a deep understanding of Allah's commandments.

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

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse highlights the significance of obedience and patience in the face of challenges. By acting with deliberation and adhering to the guidance of Allah and His Messenger, we can maintain our strength and perseverance, even in the most difficult of circumstances.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The one who acts with deliberateness is not only concerned with the immediate outcome of their actions, but also considers the long-term consequences and benefits. They weigh their choices against the principles of righteousness and seek to align their actions with the teachings of Islam.

This deliberate approach to life leads to success, even if one faces hardships or sacrifices their life. Success in this context does not solely refer to worldly achievements, but encompasses spiritual growth, moral integrity, and the attainment of Allah's pleasure. Such success is not contingent upon material gains or societal recognition, but rather on the sincerity of one's intentions and the righteousness of their actions.

For example, imagine a person who is faced with a choice between engaging in a dishonest business deal that would bring them immediate financial gain or maintaining their integrity and adhering to ethical principles. The one who acts with deliberation would consider the long-term consequences of their actions, recognizing that temporary material success obtained through dishonesty is fleeting and ultimately detrimental to their spiritual well-being. They would choose to uphold their values and principles, even if it means facing financial loss or societal disapproval.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of acting with deliberation and purpose in order to attain true success. By aligning our actions with the teachings of Islam, considering the long-term consequences, and prioritizing righteousness over immediate gains, we can achieve success in this life and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to act with deliberation and guide us on the path of success.