Hadith #7737

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.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لِيَكُنْ أوْثَقُ الذَّخائِرِ عِنْدَكَ العَمَلَ الصَّالِحَ۔

This can be translated as,

Let your most reliable provisions be [your] righteous actions.

In this profound statement, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of righteous actions as the most trustworthy and valuable provisions for a Muslim. To fully understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words.

The word (dakhair) "ذخائر" refers to provisions or treasures. It signifies the things that we rely on for sustenance and support in this world. These provisions can be material possessions, wealth, knowledge, or any other resources that we possess.

On the other hand, the term (amal salih) "عمل صالح" refers to righteous actions. It encompasses all acts of obedience and worship that are in accordance with the teachings of Islam and pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). These actions can include prayer, charity, kindness to others, seeking knowledge, and upholding justice, among others.

To support the significance of righteous actions as the most reliable provisions, we find numerous verses in the Quran that emphasize the importance of good deeds. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46,

Wealth and children are the 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 clearly indicates that while worldly possessions and family are blessings, the deeds that endure and have a lasting impact are more valuable in the sight of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 18, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity and [they who] have loaned Allah a goodly loan - it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward.

This verse highlights the concept of giving in charity and loaning Allah a goodly loan through righteous actions. It assures us that these acts will be multiplied and rewarded generously.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to prioritize righteous actions as our most reliable provisions. This means that we should invest our time, energy, and resources in performing good deeds and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By doing so, we are building a strong foundation for our spiritual growth and securing our provisions for the Hereafter.

When we prioritize righteous actions, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). We become conscious of our responsibilities towards ourselves, our families, our communities, and ultimately, towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The motivation behind prioritizing righteous actions is the desire to attain closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to earn His pleasure. We understand that our actions in this world have consequences in the Hereafter. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the rewards and blessings that await those who engage in righteous deeds.

Consequently, prioritizing righteous actions leads to a life of purpose, fulfillment, and contentment. It shapes our character, purifies our intentions, and strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It also inspires others and creates a positive impact on society, as people are drawn towards the beauty and goodness that emanate from our actions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of prioritizing righteous actions as our most reliable provisions. By investing in acts of obedience and worship, we secure our provisions for the Hereafter and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us strive to make our actions a reflection of our faith and a means to attain closeness to our Creator. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to prioritize righteous actions and grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.