Hadith #11297

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:

أبْعَدُ الهِمَمِ أقْرَبُها مِنَ الكَرَمِ۔

This can be translated into English as:

The farthest endeavours are those that are closest to nobleness.

Let us now delve into the meaning of this hadith in light of the Quran.

First, let us understand the key words in this hadith. (himmah) "هِمَمِ" refers to aspirations, ambitions, or goals that one sets for themselves. It represents the inner drive and determination to achieve something. (karam) "كَرَمِ" means nobleness, honor, or dignity. It signifies the elevated status and excellence that one attains.

To comprehend the essence of this hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:80):

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse emphasizes the importance of having strong determination and unwavering commitment in our endeavors. It highlights the need for steadfastness and resilience in pursuing our goals.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qamar (54:55), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Indeed, the Hour is coming - I almost conceal it - so that every soul may be recompensed according to that for which it strives.

This verse reminds us that our efforts and aspirations will be rewarded accordingly. The more sincere and dedicated we are in our pursuits, the closer we are to attaining nobleness and honor in the sight of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith teaches us that the most distant and challenging goals are the ones that lead us to the highest levels of nobleness. It is through striving and exerting ourselves in the face of difficulties that we can achieve greatness. This concept is further emphasized in the Quran in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:2):

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried?

This verse reminds us that trials and challenges are an integral part of our journey towards nobleness and success.

Let us reflect on this hadith in our own lives. When we set ambitious goals for ourselves, it is natural to encounter obstacles and setbacks along the way. However, it is precisely in these moments of adversity that our true character is tested. By persevering through difficulties and maintaining our determination, we come closer to attaining nobleness and honor.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified this quality through his immense knowledge, wisdom, and bravery. Despite facing numerous challenges and trials throughout his life, he remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice and righteousness. His unwavering commitment to the truth and his relentless efforts to establish a just society serve as an inspiration for all Muslims.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the most distant and difficult goals are the ones that bring us closer to nobleness and honor. By striving and persevering through challenges, we can achieve greatness and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May we all be inspired by the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive for excellence in all aspects of our lives.