Hadith #4412

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لَنْ تَعْرِفُوا الرُّشْدَ حتّى تَعْرِفُوا الَّذي تَرَكَهُ۔

This enlightening saying highlights the importance of recognizing and understanding the one who has abandoned rectitude in order to truly comprehend what righteousness entails.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (rectitude) "رُشْدَ" refers to the path of guidance, righteousness, and moral uprightness. It encompasses following the commands of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and adhering to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The term (know) "تَعْرِفُوا" implies a comprehensive knowledge and understanding, not merely superficial awareness.

To shed light on the meaning of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance for all Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:120),

Never will the Jews or the Christians be satisfied with you until you follow their religion.

This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing the beliefs and practices of those who have deviated from the path of rectitude. By understanding their deviations, we can better appreciate the true guidance and avoid falling into their errors.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:51), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises the believers,

O you who have believed, do not take the Jews and the Christians as allies. They are [in fact] allies of one another. And whoever is an ally to them among you - then indeed, he is [one] of them.

This verse highlights the importance of being aware of the ideologies and practices of those who have abandoned rectitude. By understanding their beliefs, we can safeguard ourselves from being influenced by their misguided ways.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that true rectitude cannot be fully comprehended unless we recognize and understand the deviations and falsehoods that others have embraced. By studying and reflecting upon the beliefs and actions of those who have abandoned rectitude, we gain a deeper appreciation for the true path of righteousness.

For example, if we observe individuals who prioritize material wealth and worldly pursuits over spiritual growth and moral values, we can recognize the importance of prioritizing our faith and seeking closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). If we witness individuals engaging in dishonest practices for personal gain, we can understand the significance of honesty and integrity in our own lives.

Moreover, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a motivation for Muslims to seek knowledge and understanding. By studying the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we equip ourselves with the tools to discern between truth and falsehood. This knowledge empowers us to recognize deviations from the path of rectitude and to remain steadfast in our commitment to righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of recognizing and understanding those who have abandoned rectitude in order to truly comprehend the path of righteousness. By studying the beliefs and actions of those who have deviated, we gain a deeper appreciation for the true guidance provided by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His Messenger (ﷺ). This knowledge serves as a motivation for Muslims to seek understanding and to remain steadfast in their commitment to the path of rectitude. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to recognize and adhere to the true path of righteousness.