Hadith #1236

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, "الإيمانُ نَجاةٌ۔" which translates to "Faith is salvation." This concise statement holds essence and serves as a guiding principle for Muslims.

The word (Iman) "إيمان" refers to faith or belief in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His teachings. It encompasses a deep conviction in the heart, accompanied by sincere actions that reflect this belief. Iman is not merely a verbal affirmation, but a comprehensive way of life that shapes our thoughts, intentions, and deeds.

The word (najah) "نَجَاة" means salvation or deliverance. It implies being saved from the perils and consequences of disbelief and sin, and attaining eternal success in the Hereafter. It is through faith that one finds true salvation, both in this world and the next.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the concept that faith is indeed salvation. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:38),

We said, 'Go down from it, all of you. And when guidance comes to you from Me, whoever follows My guidance - there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.'

This verse highlights that those who follow the guidance of Allah will be saved from fear and grief.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Asr (103:2-3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

Here, Allah emphasizes that true success lies in faith, righteous actions, and mutual encouragement towards truth and patience.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that faith is not only a means of personal salvation but also a source of guidance and protection in our worldly affairs. When we have faith in Allah and His wisdom, we trust that He will guide us through the challenges and trials of life. Our faith becomes a shield that protects us from falling into despair, anxiety, and the temptations of this world.

For example, when faced with a difficult decision, a person with strong faith will turn to Allah for guidance, seeking His wisdom and relying on His mercy. This reliance on Allah's guidance and the belief that He knows what is best for us leads to making choices that are in line with His teachings. Such a person is saved from the harmful consequences of impulsive decisions or following one's desires.

Moreover, faith serves as a motivation for righteous actions. When we truly believe in Allah's presence and His knowledge of our deeds, we strive to please Him in all aspects of our lives. This includes acts of worship, fulfilling our responsibilities towards others, and maintaining good character. Our faith becomes a driving force that inspires us to do good and avoid evil, leading to a life of righteousness and moral integrity.

The consequences of faith as salvation are not limited to this world alone. In the Hereafter, those who have sincerely believed and acted upon their faith will be rewarded with eternal bliss and salvation. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:82),

But those who believe and do righteous deeds - We will admit them to gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide eternally. It is the promise of Allah, which is truth, and who is more truthful than Allah in statement.

Reflecting upon the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we are reminded of the importance of nurturing and strengthening our faith. It is through faith that we find true salvation, both in this world and the Hereafter. Let us strive to deepen our belief in Allah, seek His guidance, and live our lives in accordance with His teachings. May Allah grant us the ability to have unwavering faith and be among those who are saved.