Hadith #2909

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

In this amazing Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) expresses his unwavering commitment to upholding the proofs and evidences of Allah, as well as his dedication to supporting and defending the religion of Islam. Let us delve deeper into the meanings and implications of this hadith in light of the Quran.

The first important word in this hadith is (iqaamati) "إقامَةِ", which means "establishment." It refers to the act of firmly establishing and upholding the proofs and evidences of Allah. This includes presenting logical arguments, providing evidence, and demonstrating the truth of Islam to others. The establishment of these proofs is crucial in guiding people towards the right path and strengthening their faith.

Allah emphasizes the importance of establishing His proofs in the Quran, saying: (Quran 16:36)

And We have certainly sent into every nation a messenger, [saying], 'Worship Allah and avoid Taghut.' And among them were those whom Allah guided, and among them were those upon whom error was [deservedly] decreed. So proceed through the earth and observe how was the end of the deniers.

This verse highlights the role of the messengers in establishing the proofs of Allah and inviting people to worship Him alone.

The second significant word in this hadith is (hujaj) "حُجَجِ", which means "proofs" or "evidences." These proofs refer to the clear signs and arguments that demonstrate the truth of Islam and the existence of Allah. They include logical reasoning, scientific miracles, fulfilled prophecies, and the moral and ethical teachings of Islam. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) recognizes the importance of presenting these proofs to strengthen people's faith and guide them towards the right path.

Allah reminds us of the importance of presenting proofs in the Quran, saying: (Quran 12:108)

Say, 'This is my way; I invite to Allah with insight, I and those who follow me. And exalted is Allah; and I am not of those who associate others with Him.'

This verse highlights the duty of the believers to invite others to Allah with wisdom and insight, presenting the proofs and evidences of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that he engages in arguments and debates in order to establish these proofs. This shows his deep knowledge and understanding of the religion, as well as his ability to effectively convey the message of Islam to others. His commitment to intellectual discourse and logical reasoning serves as an inspiration for Muslims to engage in constructive discussions and debates in order to establish the truth.

Allah encourages the believers to engage in intellectual discourse and debates, saying: (Quran 16:125)

Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is [rightly] guided.

This verse emphasizes the importance of using wisdom and good instruction in inviting others to the path of Allah, and engaging in arguments in the best possible manner.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also mentions his commitment to supporting and defending the religion of Islam. This includes striving and fighting for the sake of Allah, in order to protect the principles and teachings of Islam from any form of oppression or distortion. It reflects his unwavering dedication to upholding the truth and preserving the integrity of the religion.

Allah reminds us of the importance of defending the religion in the Quran, saying: (Quran 2:190)

Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress limits; for Allah loves not transgressors.

This verse highlights the obligation of Muslims to defend themselves and the religion of Islam against any form of aggression, while adhering to the principles of justice and avoiding any excesses.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as an exemplary role model for Muslims, demonstrating the importance of establishing the proofs of Allah through intellectual discourse and engaging in the struggle to defend and support the religion of Islam. His words remind us of the duty we all have as Muslims to actively participate in conveying the message of Islam, presenting its proofs, and defending its principles.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the knowledge, wisdom, and courage to follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and fulfill our responsibilities as believers. May He guide us to establish the proofs of Allah and support His religion in the best possible manner. Ameen.