Hadith #4179

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

تَوَقَّ مَعاصِيَ اللّهِ تُفْلِحْ۔

This can be translated as,

Avoid disobeying Allah and you will be successful.

In this enlightening Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of abstaining from sins in order to attain true success in this world and the hereafter.

The word (tawaqqa) "تَوَقَّ" in this Hadith means to avoid or refrain from something. It implies a conscious effort to distance oneself from actions that displease Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a call to exercise self-restraint and self-discipline in order to protect oneself from falling into sinful behavior.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 65:2-3)

And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out and will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah - then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent

This verse highlights the importance of fearing Allah and relying on Him. When we avoid disobeying Allah and fear His displeasure, He will guide us and provide solutions to our problems. He will grant us provisions from unexpected sources and ensure that His purpose is fulfilled in our lives. This is the true success that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is referring to in his Hadith.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 17:32)

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way

This verse emphasizes the importance of refraining from sinful acts, particularly in the realm of sexual misconduct. By avoiding such sins, we protect ourselves from the harmful consequences and negative effects that they bring upon our lives.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the significance of adhering to the teachings of Islam and avoiding sinful behavior. By abstaining from disobedience to Allah, we safeguard our faith, protect our souls, and pave the way for success in both this world and the hereafter.

When we consciously make an effort to avoid sins, we develop a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strengthen our spiritual well-being. This leads to a sense of inner peace, contentment, and tranquility. Moreover, by avoiding sins, we protect ourselves from the negative consequences that sinful actions bring upon our lives, such as guilt, regret, and the erosion of our moral character.

Furthermore, refraining from disobedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has a positive ripple effect on society. When individuals avoid sinful behavior, they contribute to the creation of a righteous and morally upright community. This fosters an environment of justice, compassion, and harmony, where individuals support and uplift one another.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to avoid disobeying Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in order to attain true success. By refraining from sinful behavior, we protect our faith, strengthen our connection with Allah, and contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to heed this advice and lead lives that are pleasing to Him.