Hadith #5377

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,

مَنْ شَكى ضُرَّهُ إلى غَيْرِ مُؤْمِن، فَكَأنَّما شَكىَ اللّهَ سُبْحَانَهُ۔

This enlightening saying holds a significant lesson for all Muslims. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (shakaa) "شَكى" means to complain or express distress. It signifies seeking solace or relief from the difficulties one faces. The word (durrahu) "ضُرَّهُ" refers to one's distress or hardship. It encompasses any form of difficulty or suffering that a person may encounter in their life.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises that when one experiences distress, they should not turn to anyone other than a believer for solace and support. This is because seeking help from a non-believer is akin to complaining against Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This statement emphasizes the importance of seeking assistance and guidance from those who have faith in Allah and His Messenger.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for further clarification. In Surah Az-Zumar (39:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Say, 'O My servants who have believed, fear your Lord. For those who do good in this world is good, and the earth of Allah is spacious. Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account.'

This verse highlights the importance of turning to Allah and seeking His help and guidance. Believers are encouraged to rely on Allah during times of distress and to have patience, knowing that their reward will be granted by Him. Seeking solace from a non-believer may lead to misguided advice or actions that are not in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:186), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. So let them respond to Me [by obedience] and believe in Me that they may be [rightly] guided.

This verse emphasizes the importance of turning to Allah alone in times of distress. Allah is always near and ready to respond to the supplications of His servants. By seeking solace in Him, believers strengthen their connection with Allah and increase their chances of being guided towards the right path.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that seeking help from a non-believer may lead to negative consequences. Non-believers may not possess the knowledge or understanding of Islamic principles and teachings. Their advice may be based on worldly perspectives rather than the guidance of Allah. By seeking solace from a believer, one ensures that they receive guidance that is aligned with the teachings of Islam.

Furthermore, this Hadith highlights the importance of the knowledge and wisdom possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). As the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) had a deep understanding of the Quran and the teachings of Islam. His words carry immense weight and should be heeded by all Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of seeking solace and guidance from believers during times of distress. By turning to Allah and those who have faith, we ensure that our actions and decisions are in accordance with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek help from the right sources and guide us on the straight path.