Hadith #8019

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 purified Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The glance is the scout of temptations.

This enlightening Hadith highlights the significance of controlling our gaze and the potential consequences it can have on our spiritual well-being.

The word "glance" in Arabic is (اَللَّحْظُ) "al-lahz", which refers to the act of looking or casting one's eyes upon something. It is important to note that this Hadith does not condemn the act of looking itself, but rather emphasizes the need for vigilance and caution in where we direct our gaze.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares the glance to a "scout" or a lookout. Just as a scout is responsible for surveying the surroundings and alerting others of potential dangers, our glance serves as a precursor to temptations and trials that may lie ahead. It is a warning sign that can either lead us towards righteousness or towards the path of sin.

The Quran provides us with guidance on the importance of controlling our gaze. In Surah An-Nur, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (24:30)

Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do

This verse emphasizes the responsibility of men to lower their gaze, protecting themselves from falling into sinful thoughts and actions.

Similarly, in Surah An-Nisa, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) addresses both men and women, saying, (24:31)

And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their private parts

This verse highlights that women too have a responsibility to control their gaze, ensuring that they do not engage in inappropriate or lustful glances.

The consequences of failing to control our gaze can be severe. The glance, if left unchecked, can lead to desires and temptations that may ultimately lead to sinful actions. It can be the starting point of a chain reaction that can have detrimental effects on our spiritual well-being and our relationships with others.

For example, a lustful glance towards someone who is not lawful for us can lead to illicit thoughts and desires. These thoughts can then lead to actions that are forbidden in Islam, such as adultery or fornication. The consequences of such actions are not only detrimental to our own souls but also to the fabric of society as a whole.

On the other hand, if we control our gaze and redirect it towards that which is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can protect ourselves from falling into sin and instead focus on acts of worship and righteousness. By guarding our gaze, we can maintain purity in our hearts and minds, fostering a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving towards spiritual growth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) impactful Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to be mindful of where we direct our gaze. It encourages us to be vigilant and cautious, recognizing the potential temptations that lie in the world around us. By controlling our gaze and seeking refuge in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can protect ourselves from the snares of Shaytan and strive towards righteousness and spiritual elevation.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to control our gaze and protect ourselves from the temptations of this world. May He purify our hearts and guide us on the straight path. Ameen.