Hadith #4165

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, "الإصرارُ يَجْلِبُ النِّقْمَةَ" which translates to

Persistence [in sinning] brings [divine] wrath.

This Hadith highlights the consequences of persisting in sinful actions and the divine wrath that follows.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (al-israr) "الإصرار" refers to persistence or insistence in carrying out an action. It implies a continuous and unwavering commitment to a particular behavior, even if it is sinful. (an-niqmah) "النِّقْمَةَ" refers to divine wrath or punishment, which is a consequence of persisting in wrongdoing.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the consequences of persisting in sinful actions and the divine wrath that follows. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:90), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

Then there came after them a generation who neglected prayer and pursued desires, so they will meet evil.

This verse highlights the consequences faced by those who persist in neglecting their prayers and following their desires, leading them to meet evil.

Similarly, in Surah Al-An'am (6:44), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

So when they forgot that by which they had been reminded, We opened to them the doors of every [good] thing until, when they rejoiced in that which they were given, We seized them suddenly, and they were [then] in despair.

This verse illustrates the punishment that befell those who persisted in forgetting the reminders and blessings of Allah, leading to their sudden downfall and despair.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of persisting in sinful actions. It highlights the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) when we make mistakes. By acknowledging our wrongdoings and striving to rectify them, we can avoid the divine wrath that results from persistence in sinning.

Moreover, this Hadith encourages Muslims to reflect on the consequences of their actions. It reminds us that our choices have repercussions, both in this world and the Hereafter. By understanding the potential consequences of persisting in sinful behavior, we are motivated to strive for righteousness and seek forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, which is evident in this Hadith. His words serve as a guiding light for Muslims, reminding us to be mindful of our actions and to seek repentance when we err. By internalizing the message of this Hadith and aligning our actions with the teachings of the Quran, we can strive to lead a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and avoid the divine wrath that comes with persistence in sinning.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to refrain from persisting in sinful actions and to seek His forgiveness when we falter. May He protect us from His wrath and guide us on the path of righteousness. Ameen.